Research Assistant

Under general direction, assists the sr. research assistant or other research investigators by performing moderately complex research and experimentation following established protocols; performs routine lab and equipment maintenance; sets-up and operates various scientific apparatus; assists with research projects and may perform independent research or performs various clerical and editorial duties; compiles, processes and analyzes data; performs supervisory and training duties. 

The successful candidate will conduct biomedical research on Hepatitis B Virus molecular virology and anti-viral drug discovery under the supervision of senior lab personnel. Typical tasks would include conducting western blots, purifying and analyzing recombinant proteins, conducting enzymatic assays (including enzyme inhibition assays), managing experimental compound inventories, and assisting with general lab operations. For safety reasons, all personnel within the Tavis lab are required to have been vaccinated against Hepatitis B Virus (vaccination will be provided at no cost if needed). 

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, and Personal Characteristics:

• Knowledge of laboratory procedures 

• Knowledge of the use and preparation of culture media, chemicals, and reagents 

• Knowledge of medical and scientific terminology 

• Verbal and written communication skills 

• Supervisory skills 

• Interpersonal/human relation skills 

• Ability to follow oral and written instructions 

• Ability to tend to details 

• Ability to maintain records and inventories

• Ability to operate a personal computer 

Job Duties and Responsibilities: 

•Sets-up and operates various scientific apparatus; sets-up and operates spectrophotometer, fraction collectors, chromatography equipment, centrifuges, incubators, homogenizers, and various microscopes 

• Performs various clerical duties including answering phones, maintaining bibliographies, and completing applications and forms.

• Assists with research projects; performs independent research; plans, designs and implements research projects; prepares and maintains culture media, and reagents; grows cultures; performs various assays; sterilizes equipment; separates and purifies various materials and substances using such techniques as chromatography and electrophoresis; orders laboratory supplies; performs library research; prepares compounds; interprets experimental test data; and performs minor equipment repairs. 

• Performs supervisory and training duties involving lower-level employees; attends and participates in meetings, conferences, and training groups 

• Compiles processes and analyzes data; records research procedures and results; files and maintains records; codes data for input for electronic data processing; inputs and retrieves data using computers. 

• Performs other duties as assigned. 

Minimum Qualifications:

 Bachelor’s degree in science or related field. Broad knowledge involving laboratory techniques or other specialized knowledge is desired.