Research Assistant - Pediatrics Critical Care Medicine

Posted:
7/1/2024, 5:00:00 PM

Location(s):
St. Louis, Missouri, United States ⋅ Missouri, United States

Experience Level(s):
Junior ⋅ Mid Level

Field(s):
Medical, Clinical & Veterinary

Scheduled Hours

40

Position Summary

Our laboratory’s research is aimed at understanding the host-pathogen interaction in the setting of bacterial infection. Experimental approaches involve bacterial culturing, manipulation through genetic approaches, microscopy, flow cytometry, molecular biology, functional cell-based in vitro assays, and in vivo modeling of infection in both mouse and rabbit models. This position offers the opportunity to join an innovative research team and contribute to a translational research project focused on vaccine development.

Assists with research study, experiments, preparation of material, and documentation.

Job Description

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

  • Conducts research experiments and assays primarily through in vivo systems.
  • Assists with the maintenance of the laboratory’s mouse colony (e.g., breeding and weaning mice and genotyping by either PCR or FACS analysis).
  • Evaluates research results, reports findings and discusses project outcomes with staff involved.
  • Performs data entry and maintains data files on research.
  • Coordinates tissue cultures, reagents, probe tests, etc.
  • Complies with established safety procedures and maintains required documentation on laboratory and specimen conditions.
  • Coordinates research project with other institutions and investigators.
  • Participates in developing hypotheses to be tested and ways of testing it.
  • Assists with general supply/equipment orders, lab maintenance and cleaning.
  • Performs literature research on specified topics.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Working Conditions

Works in laboratory environment with potential exposure to biological, chemical, and BSL2 pathogens. Must be physically able to wear protective equipment. Must be able to provide standard care to research animals and work with both mice and rabbits.

Schedule

Hours are generally normal business hours but may vary due to the timing for experiments and other research activity deadlines.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Prior experience with or exposure to any of the following: 1) molecular and cellular biology techniques including cell culture, cloning, PCR, Western blotting, microscopy, and flow cytometry, 2) animal handling/procedures, and 3) experience with studies conducted under BSL2 conditions.
  • Demonstrated ability to work independently and communicate with laboratory staff and investigators.
  • Ability to maintain complete and organized records/reports.
  • Working knowledge of computer software and general lab equipment.

Required Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree with 2 years of experience in laboratory operations or equivalent combination of education and experience equaling 6 years.

Grade

R07-H

Salary Range

$17.10 - $29.09 / Hourly

The salary range reflects base salaries paid for positions in a given job grade across the University. Individual rates within the range will be determined by factors including one's qualifications and performance, equity with others in the department, market rates for positions within the same grade and department budget.

Questions

For frequently asked questions about the application process, please refer to our External Applicant FAQ.

Accommodation

If you are unable to use our online application system and would like an accommodation, please email [email protected] or call the dedicated accommodation inquiry number at 314-935-1149 and leave a voicemail with the nature of your request.

Pre-Employment Screening

All external candidates receiving an offer for employment will be required to submit to pre-employment screening for this position. The screenings will include criminal background check and, as applicable for the position, other background checks, drug screen, an employment and education or licensure/certification verification, physical examination, certain vaccinations and/or governmental registry checks. All offers are contingent upon successful completion of required screening.

Benefits Statement

Personal

  • Up to 22 days of vacation, 10 recognized holidays, and sick time.

  • Competitive health insurance packages with priority appointments and lower copays/coinsurance.

  • Want to Live Near Your Work and/or improve your commute? Take advantage of our free Metro transit U-Pass for eligible employees. We also offer a forgivable home loan of up to $12,500 for closing costs and a down payment for homes in eligible neighborhoods.

  • WashU provides eligible employees with a defined contribution (403(b)) Retirement Savings Plan, which combines employee contributions and university contributions starting at 7%.

Wellness

  • Wellness challenges, annual health screenings, mental health resources, mindfulness programs and courses, employee assistance program (EAP), financial resources, access to dietitians, and more!

Family

  • We offer 4 weeks of caregiver leave to bond with your new child. Family care resources are also available for your continued childcare needs. Need adult care? We’ve got you covered.

  • WashU covers the cost of tuition for you and your family, including dependent undergraduate-level college tuition up to 100% at WashU and 40% elsewhere after seven years with us.

For policies, detailed benefits, and eligibility, please visit: https://hr.wustl.edu/benefits/

EEO/AA Statement

Washington University in St. Louis is committed to the principles and practices of equal employment opportunity and especially encourages applications by those from underrepresented groups. It is the University’s policy to provide equal opportunity and access to persons in all job titles without regard to race, ethnicity, color, national origin, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.

Diversity Statement

Washington University is dedicated to building a diverse community of individuals who are committed to contributing to an inclusive environment – fostering respect for all and welcoming individuals from diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives. Individuals with a commitment to these values are encouraged to apply.