Merakey Jobs

POSITION OBJECTIVE

Working with a high degree of independence and under general direction, coordinate major activities in medical and related technical areas. The research assistant will work on a federally funded project which aims to prepare orthopedic implants for testing in animals and humans. Key responsibilities will include carry out experiments involving cell and tissue culture, operate bioreactors for expansion of cells, manage lab to ensure cell needs of the projects are addressed, and collaborate with other team members with the ultimate goal of developing engineered cartilage and bone material for implantation in animals and humans.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS 1. Provide input and recommendation to principal investigator regarding significant developments in research projects. This includes management of milestones and deliverables of cell isolation and expansion aspects of the project. (20%) 2. Coordinate major activities of laboratory/ research. Carry out cell culture and ensure cell culture activities are on course to accomplish milestones. Carry out data analysis to supply information for monthly status reports in the right format. Keep track of laboratory supplies, reagents, and equipment maintenance. (30%) 3. Co-author research projects. Collaborate with the research associates and research engineering and other personnel in the project to develop engineered tissue. (10%) 4. Perform the most complex quantitative analytical procedures. Carry out flow cytometry, qPCR, and other procedures related to the project. (10%) 5. Teach or instruct others in research techniques. Provide learning support/assistance to other members of the lab involved in cell and tissue culture activities. (10%)

NONESSENTIAL FUNCITONS 1. May supervise research assistants and technicians. (5%) 2. Assist in developing procedures, coordinate information with others as needed. Develop standard operating procedures for cell expansion, phenotype verification, and analysis. Coordinate with others to develop final procedures for translation to a Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) setting (5%) 3. Perform other duties as assigned. (5%)

CONTACTS Department: Daily contact with supervisors to discuss research and maintain workflow (frequent). Daily contact with other staff in the cell and bioreactor core to coordinate various activities of the project (frequent). University: Moderate contact with Orchestrating Multifaceted Engineering for Growing Artificial Joints (OMEGA) personnel outside the core to ensure coordination, data sharing, smooth flow of information in achieving milestones. External: Occasional contact with external project participants to exchange information and coordinate activities. Students: Infrequent contact with students to maintain workflow

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES May supervise research assistants and technicians.

QUALIFICAITONS Experience: 5 to 8 years of related experience required. Education: Bachelor's degree in science.

REQUIRED SKILLS 1. Experience with aseptic protocols and procedures involving human and/or animal cells. 2. Ability to keep accurate and up to date information. 3. Ability to operate common laboratory equipment. 4. Ability to maintain consistent attendance. 5. Ability to interact with colleagues and supervisor face to face. 6. Excellent oral and written communication skills. 7. Good/strong organization skills; ability to multi-task, prioritize and meet deadlines. 8. Ability to work effectively independently and collaboratively within a team. 9. Effective problem-solving skills; must demonstrate, sound judgment and good decision- making. 10. Ability to develop protocols for cell and tissue culture processes. 11. Must demonstrate flexibility and ability to work under pressure. 12. Proficiency in Micr