POSITION OBJECTIVE

Working under moderate supervision, the Research Assistant 1 will perform research work and support scientists in understanding how genetic variation and environmental exposure (gut-brain-axis) predispose to neurodegenerative disorders including Frontotemporal dementia (FTD), Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and Alzheimer's disease (AD). This individual will perform technical procedures and experiments according to specific instructions/protocols including flow cytometry, immunoblot, ELISA, qRT-PCR, and microscopy collected with aid by supervising staff as well as analyze large single cell transcriptomic using R coding environment and associated packages. Data will be collected and recorded in laboratory computers for statistical analyses and the research assistant will contribute to the generation of data figures for grant submissions and publication of manuscripts, as well as present data at group meetings. This individual will pro-actively follow their job duties while adhering to and ensuring ethical compliance with all legal regulations. They will also ensure strict adherence to all safety guidelines while dealing with hazardous substances, animal subject- and human subject-derived materials in the lab and will have the physical stamina and endurance to perform all associated tasks. This position will work with animals.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

1. Perform research assignments in accordance with general plans. Experiments may include tissue culture, common molecular biology techniques and in vivo studies using mice such as (1) isolation and processing of cells derived from mouse nervous tissues and immune tissues for histology, immunofluorescence, imaging and flow cytometry, (2) ex vivo culture of bone marrow derived macrophages for stimulations and quantitative analysis of protein, RNA, cellular composition and morphology and (3) in vitro culture of human induced pluripotent stem cells with directed differentiation into motor neurons and microglia using viral-mediated transcription factor expression and small molecule patterning, co-culture and analysis of single cell RNA sequencing data. (40%)
2. Conduct analysis of histological experimental data and data from cell culture experiments and provide data to lab members in well annotated excel documents and folders labeled with images acquired. (10%)
3. Record results and maintain clear and organized records in notebooks and digital files that document the procedures used and cell growth data generated. (10%)
4. Perform duties concerning rodent animal husbandry. Manage mouse cohorts through health monitoring, breeding, tagging, and genotyping. (10%)
5. Maintain lab equipment utilized in experiments. Call technical service providers to troubleshoot equipment issues or to initiate site visits of certified equipment technicians. (10%)
6. Order laboratory supplies. Perform general laboratory support tasks including ordering and stocking communal reagents and supplies, organizing lab spaces, and receiving deliveries. (10%).

7. Conduct analysis of samples. Perform regular quality controls of cell lines including genotyping and mycobacterium testing (6%)

    

NONESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Perform other duties as assigned (4%)

CONTACTS

Department: Daily contact with supervisor to discuss research and maintain workflow

University: Occasional contact with other departments to share information and help enable collaborations. Limited interaction with regulatory components (IACUC, IBC, IRB)

External: Occasional contact with vendors to procure supplies

Students: Occasional contact with student employees to explain policies and procedures and ensure proper adherence to all legal, he