Description
POSITION OBJECTIVE
Working under moderate supervision, the Research Assistant 1 will support chemical biology and chemical proteomics research in the laboratory. This position will perform routine biochemical and cell-based research tasks, prepare and process samples, record experimental results, maintain laboratory records and supplies, and assist with established experimental workflows under the direction of the principal investigator or senior lab personnel. This role supports research focused on small-molecule ligands and protein function in cancer and immunology-related systems. This position will not work with animal models or animal-derived samples.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Perform routine biochemical and/or cell-based experiments under moderate supervision using established laboratory protocols, including cell culture support, protein/biochemical assays, and sample preparation for downstream analysis. (25%)
Prepare reagents, buffers, cell culture materials, and experimental samples; assist with routine ligand-engagement and proteomics sample-preparation workflows according to written protocols and principal investigator instructions. (15%)
Conduct analysis of samples and collect, organize, and record results for specific experiments or closely related series of experiments. (20%)
Maintain detailed and organized experimental records, sample inventories, data files, and laboratory databases to support reproducibility and compliance. (15%)
Maintain laboratory supplies and test equipment, including inventory tracking, ordering routine supplies, organizing supply requests, receipts, and inventory information, and alert the principal investigator to supply needs or purchasing issues. Perform basic equipment care and report maintenance or safety issues to the principal investigator. (15%)
NONESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Assist with basic data summaries, quality checks, and preparation of simple tables or figures for internal laboratory discussion. (5%)
Participate in lab meetings, seminars, and training activities. (3%)
Perform other duties as assigned. (2%)
CONTACTS
Department: Frequent interaction with principal investigator and lab members to receive instructions, report progress, and coordinate routine laboratory tasks.
University: Occasional interaction with core facilities under principal investigator direction.
External: Occasional interaction with vendors for routine supply orders or technical support.
Students: Occasional interaction with undergraduate or graduate trainees in the laboratory.
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES
No supervisory responsibilities. May demonstrate routine laboratory procedures to students or new lab members after appropriate training and under principal investigator direction.
QUALIFICATIONS
Education/Experience: Bachelor's degree and 0 to 1 year of relevant laboratory research experience or Associate's degree in an approved biotechnology program and 0 to 2 years of experience required. Bachelor's degree in biochemistry, molecular biology, chemistry, or related field preferred. Experience with cell culture, protein assays, or basic biochemical techniques preferred.
REQUIRED SKILLS
Basic laboratory skills in molecular biology, biochemistry, chemistry, or cell biology, with willingness to learn new techniques. Strong organization, communication, and teamwork skills.
Willingness to learn and work with artificial intelligence (AI) tools and technologies.
Ability to demonstrate successful support, education, and advocacy for all students, aligned with the values, mission, and messaging of the university, while adhering to the staff policy on conflict of commitment and interest.
Ability to meet consistent attendance
Ability to interact with colleagues, supervisors, and customers face to face.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Work is performed primarily in a laboratory environment with exposure to biological and chemical hazards. May involve handling cell lines, chemical reagents, and standard laboratory instrumentation. Personal protective equipment, including lab coat, gloves and goggles, will be provided to limit exposure to hazards. Occasional lifting of laboratory materials (up to ~20 l
