POSITION OBJECTIVE

Working under limited supervision, Research Assistant 3 will coordinate research work in medical and related technical areas. This includes assisting in transcriptomic analyses for a wide range of projects involving human immunodeficiency virus infections, including analyses of patient cells from PBMCs and ex vivo infected cell models of primary T-cells and iPSC-derived microglial cells. The research assistant will perform single-cell capture and library preparation using BD Rhapsody or a similar single-cell platform (scRNAseq, ABseq, scATACseq). These will be performed initially under supervision and then independently. The research assistant will also perform viral analyses using ddPCR and qPCR and assist in developing new methods for sequencing and analyzing proviral genomes. 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

1. Coordinate laboratory/ research activities. This requires performing experiments using molecular biology technologies, single-cell transcriptomics, and basic bioinformatics using primary cell models. Perform immunofluorescence flow cytometry and microscopy. (10%)
2. Carry out complex research assignments of a non-routine nature. This includes single-cell capture and library preparation using BD Rhapsody or a similar single-cell platform (scRNAseq, ABseq, scATACseq), the preparation of total RNA and DNA from cells, performing highly reproducible ddPCR and RT-qPCR analysis of samples containing HIV or reporter viruses.  (50%)
3. Devise new protocols and techniques for research projects involving a high degree of skill and training. This includes methods for multi-omic analyses of cells and new methods to detect and sequence HIV RNA and proviral DNA. May supervise students and technicians. (10%)
4. Evaluate adequacy of techniques; study and test new procedures; and analyze data. This will include assisting in data and bioinformatic analyses using R or Python-based programs. Maintain detailed laboratory records, prepare figures, prepare data for deposition by NIH data-sharing policies, and assist in writing related to experiments. (18%)
5. Work closely with the principal investigator. This includes regular individual meetings every 3 weeks and many additional ad hoc meetings with project team members to discuss priorities, goals, experimental design, data management, data analysis strategy and interpretation of results. Participate in general laboratory meetings and read applicable literature. May co-author research projects. (6%)

6. Maintain lab supplies and inventory (ordering, stocking, preparing solutions/media). Maintain general lab environment, including, but not limited to, equipment maintenance and scheduling repairs, organization, and cleanliness of the lab. Maintain and ensure compliance with biosafety and laboratory regulations. May monitor the laboratory budget. May supervise students and technicians. (6%)

    

NONESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Perform other duties as assigned. (<1%) 

CONTACTS

Department: Daily contact with supervisor to discuss research and maintain workflow.

University: Occasional contact with other departments to share information.

External: Limited or no contact with vendors to exchange information.

Students: Frequent contact with student employees to provide guidance and research support.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY

May supervise students and technicians. 

QUALIFICATIONS

Experience: 3 to 5 years of experience required. 

Education: Bachelor's degree in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, or a related field required.

REQUIRED SKILLS 

Thoroughly understands commonly used concepts, practices, and procedures within molecular biology and microbiology. 

Experience in molecular biology techniques, excellent aseptic technique, and genera