Technical Assistant I - Young Lab

The Young lab is seeking a skilled individual to contribute to laboratory research aimed at understanding the importance of non-coding genomic variation on gene expression regulation in human disease, including cancer. Under the direction of two postdoctoral fellows, the individual will assist in the planning and execution of experiments and the analysis and interpretation of data. Experiments will relate to projects testing various aspects of how genetic variation can alter the composition of enhancers and other DNA-regulatory elements and their ability to alter gene expression. The individual is expected to be engaged and participate in scientific activities like seminars, group meetings, and journal clubs along with their experimental obligations. 

CHARACTERISTIC DUTIES

• In consultation with the Principal Investigator or other project manager, conducts bench level experiments and small independent research projects. 
• Assists with mammalian tissue culture, including generating and maintaining cell lines, preparing cell media, and preparing cells for use in various experiments.
• Assist lab members with a wide range of experiments in cell biology and biochemistry, including but not limited to CRISPR-based genome editing, cell line characterization of both normal and cancer cells, extraction and quantification of RNA, protein extraction and analysis, PCR, confocal microscopy, and molecular cloning.
• Optimize protocols and improve methods currently employed.
• Analyze experimental results and present them in a professional and clear manner. Documents, compiles, and assists in interpreting experimental data. Reports data to supervisor in oral and written reports.
• Maintain an organized laboratory notebook that details experimental procedures and results, and maintain accessible log of acquired data.
• Prepare stocks and aliquots of common buffers and reagents, and organize additional reagents as they are ordered or generated.
• Obtain experience in and practice scientific presentations, project outlining, figure generation, and manuscript writing.
• Other tasks as required or assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in biology or a field related to the project. Experience working in a research laboratory is preferred.
• Proficiency in basic lab techniques.
• Prior experience with tissue culture is preferred.
• Willingness to be flexible with schedule, which is determined by tissue culture and experimental needs.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Strong organizational skills required.