Research Assistant 2

Position Overview

Working under general supervision, the Research Assistant 2 will plan and carry out research projects related to cardiac contractile function. The role involves performing a wide range of cellular and molecular biology experiments – including gel electrophoresis, western blots, bacterial transformation and culture, and other in vitro techniques – to bridge the gap between structural observations and experimental data in cardiac muscle physiology. This position involves working closely with other lab members and handling animal models in compliance with established research guidelines.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan and carry out research projects that characterize the roles of myofilament contractile proteins in the regulation of cardiac muscle contraction.
• Conduct experiments including designing cloning strategies, PCR analysis, mutagenesis, protein expression measurement via gel electrophoresis and western blotting, plasmid preparation, bacterial transformation, and culture for recombinant protein production.
• Perform mechanical experiments in isolated cardiac and skeletal muscle preparations, quantifying and analyzing data.
• Assist in developing improved techniques for immunostaining of whole heart sections, isolated muscle fibers, and myofibrils.
• Prepare and present research results in lab meetings.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in physiology, biochemistry, molecular biology or a related scientific field with 1–3 years of relevant experience, or an Associate's degree in an approved biotechnology program with 2–4 years of experience.
• Strong knowledge of principles in chemistry, physics, biochemistry, molecular/cellular biology, and in vivo cardiovascular function.
• Proficient in various molecular biology techniques including cell culture and protein expression/purification.
• Excellent organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills with the ability to work both independently and collaboratively.
• Demonstrated ability to comply with animal research guidelines and handle animals with care and respect.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with computer programming and molecular dynamic simulation.
• Previous experience working with animals.

Benefits & Perks

• Compensation: Starting wage rate is $19.41 per hour, subject to qualifications, department budgets, and industry data.
• Benefits: Comprehensive benefits package including excellent healthcare, retirement plans, tuition assistance, paid time off, and a winter recess.