Description

The Laboratory Research Assistant position in the Dementia Laboratory of the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine will primarily focus on conducting research studies aimed at investigating the molecular mechanisms underlying neurodegenerative diseases.
Department-Specific Responsibilities

• Conduct experiments on a bench or under a biosafety cabinet using a variety of biochemical and molecular biology techniques.
• Perform protein extraction from human tissue, Western blots, transmission electron microscopy, and real-time quaking-induced conversion (RT-QuIC).
• Keep detailed logs of experiments.
• Keep lab cleaned and organized regularly.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

General Responsibilities

• Conduct tests across a diverse array of assays using laboratory machinery and computer programs.
• Test and set up lab equipment.
• Collect data and prepare reports based upon established protocols.
• Attend and participate in departmental meetings.
• Order, receive, and inventory laboratory supplies.
• Clean glassware and maintain laboratory work areas.
• Troubleshoot breakdowns, perform preventive maintenance, and call for repairs as needed.
• Maintain logs and equipment record books.

Qualifications

Combinations of related education and experience may be considered. Education beyond the minimum required may be substituted for work experience. Work experience beyond the minimum required may be substituted for education.

EDUCATION
Required

• Bachelor's degree and 2 years of experience in a laboratory setting; OR
• Associate's degree and 4 years of experience in a laboratory setting

Preferred

• Bachelor's degree in life sciences

WORK EXPERIENCE
Preferred

• 2 years relevant laboratory experience
• 2 years working in a molecular biology laboratory designated as Biological Safety Level 2 (BSL2)
• 2 years of experience in protein extraction, carrying out Western blots, RT-QuIC, and transmission electron microscopy experiments

SKILLS
Required

• Proficient in written and verbal communication skills
• Maintains a high degree of professionalism
• Demonstrated time management and priority setting skills
• Demonstrates a high commitment to quality
• Possesses flexibility to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment
• Highly thorough and dependable
• Possesses a high degree of initiative
• Ability to build strong customer relationships

Preferred

• Ability to carry out biochemical assays and molecular biology experiments including Western blots
• Ability to maintain accurate, detailed laboratory logbooks, protocols and safety documentation
• Knowledge and/or ability to carry out protein extraction, seeding assays, RT-QuIC, protein expression and purification, and transmission electron microscopy

Working Conditions / Demands

The role regularly requires the ability to effectively communicate. The role frequently requires the ability to move about the work environment and to position oneself to operate laboratory equipment effectively. The role requires the ability to move objects weighing up to 25 pounds and will occasionally work near moving mechanical parts. The person in this role must be able to perform the essential functions with or without an accommodation.

Work Location

Indianapolis, Indiana

Benefits Overview

For full-time staff employees, Indiana University offers a wide array of benefits including:

• Comprehensive medical and dental insurance
• Health savings account with generous IU contributions
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• Basic group life insurance paid by IU
• Voluntary supplemental life, long-term disability, critical illness, and supplemental accidental death & dismemberment insurance
• Base retirement plan with generous IU contributions, subject to vesting
• Voluntary supplemental retirement plan options
• Tuition subsidy for employees and family members taking IU courses
• 10 paid holidays plus a paid winter break each year
• Generous paid time off plans
• Paid leave for new parents and IU-sponsored volunteer events
• Employee assistance program (EAP)

Learn more about our benefits by reviewing the IU Benefit Programs Brochure .

Job Classification

Career Level: Mastery
FLSA: Nonexempt
Job Function: Research
Job Family: Laboratory Research
Click here to learn more about Indiana University's Job Framework.

Posting Disclaimer

This posting is scheduled to close at 11:59 pm EST on the advertised Close Date. This posting may be closed at any time at the discretion of the University, but will remain open for a minimum of 5 business days. To guarantee full consideration, please submit your application within 5 business days of the Posted Date.
If you wish to include a cover letter, you may include it with your resume when uploading attachments.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Indiana University is an equal opportunity employer and provider of ADA services and prohibits discrimination in hiring. See Indiana University Notice of Non-Discrimination here which includes contact information .

Campus Safety and Security

The Annual Security and Fire Safety Report, containing policy statements, crime and fire statistics for all Indiana University campuses, is available online . You may also request a physical copy by emailing IU Public Safety at iups@iu.edu or by visiting IUPD.