Research Assistant - Microbiology and Immunology (Ellermeier Lab)
University of Iowa

Job Info

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This Research Assistant position is in the laboratory of Dr. Craig Ellermeier in the Department of Microbiology and Immunology. We are seeking a full-time research assistant to assist with the characterization of essential genes in the important bacterial pathogen Clostridium difficile. Training will be provided in cutting-edge bacterial genetics and molecular biology, growth of bacteria in an anaerobic chamber, and fluorescence microscopy.

Position Responsibilities:

• Execute experiments under the direction of more senior research staff or the principal investigator.
• Record data, maintain a detailed laboratory notebook, enter records into lab databases.
• Observe techniques in other laboratories for implementation in our laboratory.
• Assist in the analysis and interpretation of experiments.
• Maintain lab databases for supplies, reagents, and strains.
• Perform experiments, collect, document, and interpret data.
• Read, understand, and implement experimental protocols.
• Adhere to safety and compliance guidelines.
• Adhere to quality assurance protocols to maintain validity and integrity of research data.
• Complete work within specified time guidelines; discuss progress and any problems as needed.
• Collect and track data in an organized and logical manner.
• Assist in the preparation of manuscripts and grants by organizing data and preparing images, figures, and tables as directed.
• As skills develop, analyze data and present results/findings at team and departmental meetings.
• Assist in maintaining accurate records and laboratory databases.
• Assist in maintaining equipment clean and in working order.
• Keep shared workspaces clean and free of clutter.
• Maintain stocks of supplies and reagents.
• Order and properly store supplies and equipment as needed.
• Dispose of lab waste in compliance with regulatory guidelines.

Percent of Time: 100%
Type of Position: Specified Term/One Year
Pay Grade: 3A - https://hr.uiowa.edu/pay/pay-plans/professional-and-scientific-pay-structure

Benefits Highlights:

• Regular salaried position located in Iowa City, Iowa
• Fringe benefit package including paid vacation; sick leave; health, dental, life and disability insurance options; and generous employer contributions into retirement plans

• For more information about Why Iowa?, click here

Required Qualifications:

• Requires a bachelor's degree in Microbiology, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Genetics or a related field.
• Working in a microbiology, cell biology, immunology, or biochemistry laboratory.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to multitask in a fast paced environment.
• Attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to work in a team.

Desirable Qualifications:

• Experience with general microbiologic techniques, such as culture, storage, and safe handling of pathogenic bacteria.
• Experience with standard molecular techniques, including PCR, plasmid purification, bacterial transformation, agarose gel electrophoresis, and western blotting.
• Familiarity with data analysis and presentation software, such as Microsoft Excel, Prism, Microsoft Word, ImageJ, and Adobe Photoshop.
• Experience with fluorescence microscopy.
• Experience with protein purification.

Application Process: In order to be considered, applicants must upload a CV or resume (under submission relevant materials) that clearly address how they meet the listed required and desired qualifications of this position.

Job openings are posted for a minimum of 14 calendar days. Successful candidates will be required to self-disclose any conviction history and will be subject to a criminal background check and credential/education verification. Up to 5 professional references will be requested at a later step in the recruitment process. This position is not eligible for University sponsorship for employment authorization.

to learn more about this position reach out to Anne Beyerink, anne-phillips@uiowa.edu.

Additional Information

• Classification Title: Research Assistant
• Appointment Type: Professional and Scientific
• Schedule: Full-time

Compensation

• Pay Level: 3A

Contact Information

• Organization: Healthcare
• Contact Name: Anne Beyerink
• Contact Email: anne-phillips@uiowa.edu

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