Research Associate I- Neurobiology $2,000 Sign on bonus

POSITION SUMMARY:

Seeking Research Associate/Lab Manager

The Alkema Lab in the Department of Neurobiology at UMass Chan are looking for a Research Associate/Lab Manager.

The Alkema lab (https://www.umassmed.edu/AlkemaLab/) studies how stress, diet and microbiome affect behavior. The position will provide exposure to multiple aspects of behavioral analysis, genetics, molecular biology, metabolism using state-of-the-art techniques.

The primary responsibilities comprise of:

Managing the lab. Half of the time will be spent overseeing day to day operations which includes: ordering and maintaining supplies, managing strain collections and in time, training new lab members in basic animal handling and molecular biology.
• Conducting research. Half of the time will be dedicated to research that is carried out independently or in conjunction with other lab members in one of the labs.

Outcomes and opportunities include:

• Training in cutting-edge genetics, molecular biology, imaging, and neurobiology techniques
• Authorship on publications
• Working with an inclusive, interactive, innovative, and happy group of elegans researchers
• Participation in an exciting and diverse department focused on neurodegeneration, repair, development, systems biology, glia, sleep, addiction, and circuits. Research within the department is carried out in many types of animals that range from invertebrates to primates.

We welcome candidates who:

• Have research experience in the life science
• Are transitioning from undergraduate research to graduate school

OR

Have significant research experience; mature researchers are welcome and encouraged to apply

• Are willing to commit to a long-term position of at least 2 years.
• Have worked with elegans; however, this is not a prerequisite.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Perform laboratory experiments and may be responsible for a single research project
• Utilize all software relevant to experiment and equipment used
• Interpret data, form conclusions and decide on next steps under the direction of the PI or designee
• Maintain accurate records, may modify protocols with the approval of the PI or designee
• Review literature, publications and grants relevant to assigned projects
• Record results according to established lab, sponsor & university protocol
• Assist with performing data analysis and/or mathematical computations
• Maintain a detailed lab notebook according to lab practice
• Present findings at lab/group meetings
• Monitor laboratory supply levels and order as noted
• Prepare and label buffers, media, solutions, etc.
• Assist with and comply with all safety regulation and infection control standards
• Train on IACUC, IRB, EHS, Radiation safety protocols
• Comply with all applicable state, federal university, and sponsor policies and agreements
• Provide support with identifying problems and challenges, propose resolutions, implement appropriate solutions
• Provide support with drafting standard operation procedures in compliance to EHS regulation specific for the lab
• Perform other duties as require

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's degree in Biological or Natural Science, or equivalent experience
• Basic understanding of lab safety and protocols
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office products
• Ability to analyze data in a quantitative and objective manner.
• Ability to work in a team environmen

SUPERVISION RECEIVED:

Under the direction of the Principal Investigator, or designee

SUPERVISION EXERCISED:

May functionally supervise Lab Technicians and Aides

ENVIRONMENTAL WORKING CONDITIONS:

Wet chemistry laboratory, and may require appropriate contact with biohazards, radionuclides, toxins, animals, and human specimens.