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Research Assistant I, Cell and Developmental Biology

Employer
Vanderbilt University
Location
Nashville, Tennessee, US
Salary
Competitive
Closing date
Jun 3, 2021

View more

Sector
Academic / Research
Field
Development
Discipline
Genetics, Biology
Salary Type
Salary
Employment Type
Fellowship
The Research Assistant is part of the Page-McCaw lab in the Department of Cell and Developmental Biology at Vanderbilt University and is a key individual responsible for performing scientific research and maintaining the laboratory environment . Th is position requires attention to detail, the ability to ask questions and learn new information, strong written and oral communication skills, strong task management skills, and moderate manual dexterity . Reporting directly to the Principle Investigator , the Research Assistant will assist the lab manager in doing routine lab maintenance and will work with a graduate student and the Principle Investigator in performing experiments.
The Research Assistant will be responsible for working with a team comprising a graduate student, lab manager, and PI on an NIH-funded study to analyze basement membrane dynamics. Experimental protocols will require working with Drosophila melanogaster ( fruitflies ) as the experimental model, including sorting, crossing, identifying, and dissecting flies. Experience or classwork in classical (Mendelian) genetics would be helpful but is not required. Fixation and immunohistochemistry of tissue samples will be followed by quantitative microscopy, possibly including super-resolution or electron microscopy. In addition, the Research Assistant will work with the Lab Manager to maintain the laboratory environment, including preparing media, cleaning dishes, and working with regulatory bodies.
T h e D e par t m e n t o f C ell a nd Devel o pm e ntal B iol o gy is a vibr a nt, i n te r dis c i p li n ary e n vir o nm e nt for c utt i n g - e dge r esearch o v er a s c ale t hat spa n s se v en powers o f te n , f r om s i ngle mo l ecules to w hole organisms. We a r e an i n teractive a n d hig h ly c ollabor a tive de p a r t m en t, w i t h a s tr o ng gr a du a te st u de n t associ a ti o n, o u t s ta n d i ng c o r e f acilities, a t o p - ra n k ed devel o pm e ntal b i ol o gy pro g ram, a nd ex c e p ti o nally s t rong facu l ty. The Page-McCaw lab is a federally-funded laboratory that performs basic scientific research to generate new knowledge about how cells interact with their environment. The lab currently has 3 graduate students, one postdoctoral fellow, one lab manager, and several undergraduates. We are an inclusive environment , with rigorous science in a supportive and encouraging atmosphere. We maintain the balance between a professional and friendly atmosphere .
Duties and Responsibilities
- Perform laboratory experiments and procedures in a timely manner according to established protocols to obtain reproducible results.
- Present research results to laboratory group and PI on a weekly basis for help in troubleshooting and interpreting data.
- Participate in the preparation of research proposals and scientific articles, as needed, to garner funding and share new knowledge.
- Contribute to the education of all members of the laboratory by teaching research techniques and the use of specialized equipment.
- Prepare or supervise the preparation of Drosophila media (fly food, apple juice plates, etc.) for the laboratory as needed.
- Maintain Drosophila resources for lab members use.
- Maintain a functional laboratory environment that runs smoothly.
- Order supplies and equipment as needed in consultation with the PI and members of the laboratory.
- Contribute to team and group meetings with engagement and respect.
- Plan time effectively, balancing long-term and short-term goals.
- Respond to constructive feedback by altering behavior or performance as necessary.
- Develops and maintains cooperative relationships with others at all levels.
- Shares information, resources, and ideas.
- Demonstrates flexibility in work practices, procedures or processes .
- Works effectively with others to accomplish goals and to find solutions to problems .
- Works actively to resolve conflict to a positive outcome .
Qualifications
- A bachelor's degree is necessary .
- Prior experience working in a research laboratory is strongly preferred.
- A two-year commitment is strongly preferred.
Commitment to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion
At Vanderbilt University, we are intentional about and assume accountability for fostering advancement and respect for equity, diversity, and inclusion for all students, faculty, and staff. Our commitment to diversity makes us who we are. We have created a community that celebrates differences and lets individuality thrive. As part of this commitment, we actively value diversity in our workplace and learning environments as we seek to take advantage of the rich backgrounds and abilities of everyone. The diverse voices of Vanderbilt represent an invaluable resource for the University in its efforts to fulfill its mission and strive to be an example of excellence in higher education.
Vanderbilt University is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer. Women, minorities, people with disabilities, and protected veterans are encouraged to apply.
Please note, all candidates selected for an offer of employment are subject to pre-employment background checks, which may include but are not limited to, based on the role for which they have been selected: criminal history, education verification, social media review, motor vehicle records, credit history, and professional license verification.

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