Research Assistant- IL- Biochemistry & Molecular Genetics

Summary:

The Research Assistant provides research support to the research endeavors of the faculty of the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics. The Research Assistant is expected to assist in the training of students, design and execution of research experiments, collection and analysis of data, generation of figures and presentations for the collected data, and revising manuscripts that involve these data. This position reports to the Chair of the Department.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Performs standard research procedures in cell and molecular biology (western blot, RT-PCR, qPCR, chromatin immunoprecipitations, cell culture and harvesting of human cell lines, immunofluorescence (IF), RNA & DNA purification, molecular cloning, etc.) under supervision of principal investigators
• Performs other duties that will include working with laboratory animals.
• Assists in the development of new protocols
• Provides direction and guidance to students conducting research in the labs.
• Assists PI’s with trouble-shooting and problem-solving solutions to technical problems.
• Graphs and analyzes data.
• Performs literature searches for protocols and approaches
• Keeps accurate lab notebooks for each lab where they work within the department
• Responsible for maintaining cleanliness, repair, and organization of laboratories
• Responsible for recordkeeping, maintenance and disposal associated with lab equipment and chemicals
• Adheres to laboratory safety procedures
• Obtains quotes and performs ordering and receiving duties for lab supplies
• Contributes to abstract submissions and poster and manuscript preparation

Qualifications:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Must be able to work in a constant state of alertness and safe manner and have regular, predictable, in-person attendance. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions. 

Education and/or Experience:

Bachelor’s degree in biological sciences related field with some relevant laboratory experience (0 – 2 years). Previous laboratory experience in molecular biology techniques including western blot, PCR, and cell culture is preferred.

Computer Skills:

Computer proficiency in MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) required. Experience with Statistics, Graphing and Imaging software is desirable.

Physical Requirements:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 

This individual is frequently required to stand, walk, sit, use hands to finger, handle, or feel, reach with hands and arms, talk and hear. This individual is occasionally required to climb or balance, stoop, kneel crouch or crawl, taste or smell. This individual is frequently required to lift up to 10 pounds and occasionally lift up to 25 pounds. Close and distance vision correctable to 20/20 in both eyes, ability to distinguish depth and shades of grey scale.

Work Environment:

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Individuals will occasionally work near moving mechanical parts, be exposed to fumes or airborne particles, toxic or caustic chemicals, risk of electric shock, radiation and vibration. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate. 

Midwestern University is a private, not-for-profit organization that provides graduate and post-graduate education in the health sciences. The University has two campuses, one in Downers Grove, Illinois and the other in Glendale, Arizona. More than 6,000 full-time students are enrolled in graduate programs in osteopathic medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, physician assistant studies, physical therapy, occupational therapy, nurse anesthesia, cardiovascular perfusion, podiatry, optometry, clinical psychology, speech language pathology, biomedical sciences and veterinary medicine. Over 500 full-time faculty members and 400 staff members are dedicated to the education and development of our students in an environment that encourages learning, respect for all members of the health care team, service, interdisciplinary scholarly activity, and personal growth.

We offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision insurance plans as well as life insurance, short/long term disability and pet insurance.  We offer flexible spending accounts including healthcare reimbursement and child/dependent care account.  We offer a work life balance with competitive time off package including paid holiday’s, sick/flex days, personal days and vacation days.  We offer a 403(b) retirement plan, tuition reimbursement, child care subsidy reimbursement program, identity theft protection and an employee assistance program.  Wellness is important to us and we offer a wellness facility on-site with a fully equipped fitness facility. 

Midwestern University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer that does not discriminate against an employee or applicant based upon race; color; religion; creed; national origin or ancestry; ethnicity; sex (including pregnancy); gender (including gender expressions, gender identity; and sexual orientation); marital status; age; disability; citizenship; past, current, or prospective service in the uniformed services; genetic information; or any other protected class, in accord with all federal, state and local laws and regulations. Midwestern University complies with the Smoke-Free Arizona Act (A.R.S. 36-601.01) and the Smoke Free Illinois Act (410 ILCS 82/).  Midwestern University complies with the Illinois Equal Pay Act of 2003 and Arizona Equal Pay Acts.