Research Assistant III, Rare Disease Translational Center
The Rare Disease Translational Center is seeking a motivated, detail oriented full time Research Assistant to join our team at The Jackson Laboratory in Bar Harbor, Maine. The successful candidate will be working with a dynamic team to develop and characterize human-induced pluripotent stem cell line-based disease models with a focus on cell biology, molecular biology, and imaging techniques. This position is a wonderful opportunity for experienced associates to expand their skills in live cell imaging and stem cell-based research in rare diseases. We are seeking an individual with experience in undifferentiated iPSC cell culture and iPSC differentiation. Individual with experience in primary and mammalian cell culture can also be considered.
The Rare Disease Translational Center supports the overall mission of The Jackson Laboratory: To discover precise genomic solution for disease and empower the global biomedical community in the shared quest to improve human health. The RDTC works directly with foundations and their associated teams of basic and clinical researchers to generate custom mouse and cell-based models with clinical mutations to treat and cure rare disease. This position is an exciting opportunity to work directly with the Center in supporting this mission.
Key Responsibilities:
- Implement best practices and standard processes in daily work to support efficiencies, quality, and safety.
- Proposes alternative research methods, techniques, and initiatives demonstrating knowledge of other scientific areas and related research.
- Demonstrates scientific knowledge and analytical skills to monitor, modify, and design the research process. Designs, modifies, and troubleshoots highly specialized equipment.
- Independently expands scope of literature search to support and/or propose alternative experimental methods, procedures and/or techniques.
- Gathers information to prepare budget and proposes estimates for acquisition of supplies and equipment.
- Analyzes and resolves variations in complex tests, experiments, and procedures; designs and implements modifications and changes to techniques, procedures, and quality control measures.
- Leads multiple, concurrent projects and/or multi-faceted projects; directs others in making modifications.
- Evaluates documentation of results; leads efforts to modify and adapt research methodologies in collaboration with others; ensures compliance with regulatory standards.
- Demonstrates and drives a positive, high-performance environment with a culture of teamwork, continuous improvement, and patient focus. They work collaboratively within the team to leverage expertise to maximize success and resource use.
Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in biological sciences or related discipline OR 6+ years of related experience in a Laboratory setting.
- Performs various experiments and procedures related to maintenance, differentiation, and phenotyping of induced pluripotent stem cell iPSC lines, including longitudinal and automated live-/fixed-cell imaging of CNS-differentiated cells.
- Design, set-up, troubleshoot, execute, analyze, and organize data from an isogenic iPSC line (undifferentiated/differentiated) and primary neuronal cell culture-based screening platform.
- Proficient in cell culture aseptic techniques plus freezing and banking of cells. Must have experience in cell transfection, transduction, and perform standard immunological techniques, including western blotting and immunostaining.
- Develop image analysis routines to analyze the effects of disease-associated mutations on cellular phenotype.
- Keep detailed, organized, and accurate digital and physical experimental records.
- Performs statistical analysis; interprets and evaluates results and compiles data for peer and PI review.
- Supports manuscript preparation for publication.
- Ability to interact with all individuals in a productive, professional, and positive manner to enhance the outcome of the goals of the research program.
- The ability to work in a demanding, fast paced, team-oriented environment, while maintaining a high-level of professionalism
- Leads and initiates good safety practices and a demonstrated history of safe conduct.
- Exceptional computer skills, ability to develop technical documents, databases, and presentations.
- Demonstrated success in conducting multiple, concurrent assignments or a multi-faceted project.
- Demonstrated team player with professional, positive attitude and willingness to be flexible.
- Demonstrated ability to positively influence the behavior of subordinates and teammates – previous training or supervisory experience preferred.
Pay Range: $48198 – $80696
About JAX:
The Jackson Laboratory is an independent, nonprofit biomedical research institution with a National Cancer Institute-designated Cancer Center and nearly 3,000 employees in locations across the United States (Maine, Connecticut, California), Japan and China. Its mission is to discover precise genomic solutions for disease and empower the global biomedical community in the shared quest to improve human health.
Founded in 1929, JAX applies over nine decades of expertise in genetics to increase understanding of human disease, advancing treatments and cures for cancer, neurological and immune disorders, diabetes, aging and heart disease. It models and interprets genomic complexity, integrates basic research with clinical application, educates current and future scientists, and provides critical data, tools and services to the global biomedical community. For more information, please visit www.jax.org.
EEO Statement:
The Jackson Laboratory provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment in all job classifications without regard to race, color, religion, age, mental disability, physical disability, medical condition, gender, sexual orientation, genetic information, ancestry, marital status, national origin, veteran status, and other classifications protected by applicable state and local non-discrimination laws.