Research Assistant - Microbiology and Immunology (Potter Lab)
University of Iowa

Job Info

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This Research Assistant position is in the laboratory of Dr. Aimee Potter in the Department of Microbiology and Immunology. We are seeking a full-time research assistant to conduct research focused on understanding metabolic interactions between Neisseria gonorrhoeae and innate immune cells.

Duties to Include:

• Prepare chemical solutions and media according to established protocols and standards, including proper handling and storage of all solid, liquid, and gaseous chemicals and solvents.
• Complete work within specified time guidelines; discuss progress and any problems as needed.
• Assist in completion of required paperwork for new and departing laboratory personnel, including required vaccinations and exposure testing, annual training, radiation safety, biohazard safety, laboratory safety, and fire safety training.
• Assist in maintaining accurate records of laboratory databases (equipment and supplies, reagents, microbial strains and stocks, and animals).
• Maintain laboratory supplies and equipment, including the timely ordering, receiving, and proper storage of supplies and equipment.
• Assist in maintaining general laboratory functionality.
• Maintain a clean work area.
• Perform experimental procedures in the BSL2 laboratories; record, consolidate, and analyze data.
• Perform in vivo infectious disease research using mice infected with Neisseria gonorrhoeae.
• Perform blood draws and isolate immune cells from human blood.
• Perform in vitro infectious disease research using human immune cells infected with Neisseria gonorrhoeae
• Present research progress at laboratory and journal club meetings.
• Assist in the preparation of manuscripts and grants by organizing data and preparing images, figures, and tables as directed.

Percent of Time: 100%

Type of Position: Specified Term/One Year

Pay Grade: 3A https://hr.uiowa.edu/professional-pay/compensation-plan-structure-a-FY18

Benefits Highlights:

• Regular salaried position located in Iowa City, Iowa
• Fringe benefit package including paid vacation; sick leave; health, dental, life and disability insurance options; and generous employer contributions into retirement plans
• For more information about Why Iowa?, click here

Required Qualifications:

• A Bachelor's degree in Microbiology, Immunology, Biochemistry or Biology or related field or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• A minimum of 1 year of experience with aseptic/sterile technique and growing bacterial cultures.
• Excellent written, verbal communication, and interpersonal relationship skills.
• Basic knowledge of each of the following:

o General microbiologic techniques, such as culture, storage, and safe handling of bacteria and sterile techniques.

o Standard molecular techniques, (e.g. PCR, DNA purification, agarose gel electrophoresis, restriction enzyme analyses, western blotting, and ELISA.)

o Gathering, recording, and analyzing of experimental data.

o Use of data analysis and presentation software (e.g. Microsoft Excel, Graphpad Prism, ect)

Desirable Qualifications:

Prior experience with any/each of the following:

• Past experience as a laboratory technician or manager
• Handling mice, including but not restricted to IP and SC injections, and performing in vivo experiments with the animals.
• Experience using immunological techniques (e.g., ELISA, flow cytometry, immunofluorescence microscopy).
• Generation and characterization of bacterial mutants
• BSL2 protocols
• Previous experience with phlebotomy

Application Process: In order to be considered, applicants must upload a resume or CV (under submission relevant materials) that clearly address how they meet the listed required and desired qualifications of this position.

Job openings are posted for a minimum of 14 calendar days.

Successful candidates will be required to self-disclose any conviction history and will be subject to a criminal background check. This position is not eligible for University sponsorship for employment authorization.

to learn more about this position contact anne-phillips@uiowa.edu.

Additional Information

• Classification Title: Research Assistant
• Appointment Type: Professional and Scientific
• Schedule: Full-time

Compensation

• Pay Level: 3A

Contact Information

• Organization: Healthcare
• Contact Name: Anne Beyerink
• Contact Email: anne-phillips@uiowa.edu

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