RESEARCH SPECIALIST I
University of Missouri - Columbia (MU)
Columbia, MO
Full-time
Research
Posted on April 26, 2024
Hiring Department
Division of Animal Sciences
Job Description
Recently, the National Institute of Health has funded a Center focused on evaluating somatic cell gene editing systems in swine models. TheResearch Specialistwill be a member of the ‘Testing' group that is tasked with evaluating animals' physiological and immunological responses to gene therapy reagents as well as to the altered genes themselves. The Research Specialist's roles will include performing and assisting with molecular, cellular, and/or biochemical assays. Other lab methods will involve histological evaluations of tissues and cells. The assays may involve, but are not limited to, toxicology screens, immunoassays and antibody-based methods for determination of inflammatory responses in the test animals and measurement of biomarkers in a GLP/GCP environment. The candidate will use multiple technology platforms, including PCR, ELISA, fluorescence/luminescent plate readers, and flow cytometry. This position will also assist with animal husbandry, help coordinate animal studies and perform tissue/sample collections from experimental animals.
Major Responsibilities:
- Assist with the management of animals used in the testing protocols.
- Assist with surgical and non-surgical delivery of GE reagents.
- Perform blood collections on live animals; perform tissue/sample collections from euthanized animals.
- Establish and maintain mammalian cell lines.
- Perform immunoassays/cell-based assays for quantification of responses to gene editing, assessment of immunogenicity, and measurement of relevant biomarkers in biological matrices including tissues, serum and/or plasma. Assist with the validation of assays.
- Perform immunohistochemical staining of fixed and frozen tissues. Perform fluorescent microscopy of fixed, frozen and fresh tissues.
- Isolate genomic DNA and RNA from tissues and employ standard molecular assays (e.g. quantitative PCR) to characterize edited genes and to evaluate changes in RNA populations.
- Collect, collate and perform basic analyses of data for review by supervisors and principle investigators.
8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Monday - Friday
Others as needed
Minimum Qualifications
A Bachelor's degree or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience and at least 1 year of experience from which comparable knowledge and skills can be acquired is necessary.
Preferred Qualifications
- B.S. or M.S. in Biological Sciences or related field with 0-5 years relevant experience with swine models.
- Experience with soluble immunoassays (e.g. ELISA, Luminex), multicolor flow cytometry, cell culture techniques, and general knowledge of antibodies and immunoassays
- Experience with histological methods (cell staining, immune-labeling, light and fluorescent microscopy)
- Experience with pigs as research models – including blood and tissue collections.
- Experience with genomic and RNA isolation; cDNA production and PCR-based methods
- Experience collecting and working with fresh, frozen and fixed biological samples (tissues, serum and plasma)
- Experience with neurophysiology, brain physiology and development.
- Good documentation, technical writing and verbal communication skills
- Ability to multi-task and work in a team environment
- The Research Specialist is expected to perform duties with minimal to moderate supervision.
Salary Range: $16.23 - $28.25/hourly
GGS Grade: 007
University Title: Research Specialist I
Internal applicants can determine their university title by accessing the Talent Profile tile in myHR.
Community Information
Columbia, Mo., is known as an ideal college town, combining small-town comforts, community spirit and low cost of living with big-city culture, activities and resources. Home to nationally renowned public schools and other colleges and educational centers, Columbia is packed with restaurants and entertainment venues and hosts more than a dozen annual cultural festivals.
Benefit Eligibility
This position is eligible for University benefits. The University offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental and vision plans, retirement, paid time off, and educational fee discounts. For additional information on University benefits, please visit the Faculty & Staff Benefits website athttp://www.umsystem.edu/totalrewards/benefits
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