Research Assistant

Job Title: Research Assistant

Department: Division of Research

Location: Philadelphia, PA

Status: Non-Exempt

The individual in this research professional position is responsible for working in shared laboratory areas assisting members of faculty in the conduct of their research associated with cardiac research. Under the direction of the faculty, the individual will prepare experimental components; perform experimental techniques proficiently; perform and oversee general lab maintenance; maintain experimental records; organize orders of laboratory supplies; help prepare presentation materials; troubleshoot, and contribute to the maintenance of common laboratory equipment. The candidate must work well in a team environment. This individual should be skilled in basic lab techniques such as cell culture/aseptic techniques, PCR and good organizational skills are a must. Must be familiar with rodent handling or be willing to learn. Experience in any of the following would be a plus: cardiac research, molecular biology, microscopy/cellular imaging and surgical techniques.

* Proficiently performs at least 2-4 experimental techniques (such as tissue culture, gel electrophoresis, western/ northern/ southern blotting, polymerase chain reaction (PCR), histochemical staining, immunohistochemical staining, biochemical assays, etc.) which will involve maintaining project data (collection, logging, entry, analysis, reporting), accurately recording research, handling animals, etc. Data collection and documentation.

* Prepares equipment, special components and reagents for experiments.

* Performs and oversees general lab maintenance including cleaning and sterilization of glassware and media to ensure smooth operation of facilities including lab safety.

* Trains others in mastered experimental techniques. Is responsible for troubleshooting.

* Performs general equipment monitoring and maintenance including that of larger pieces of equipment (Revcos, incubators, etc.).

* Monitors and orders lab supplies to ensure adequate inventory and stocked lab areas.

* Helps prepare posters, manuscripts and meeting presentations. May present research findings at meetings.

* Executes photographic data documentation.

* Oversees recording of work study student hours and distribution of assigned lab maintenance tasks. May serve as back-up payroll recorder.

* Performs other similar and related duties as required.

Work consists of moderately complex procedures and tasks where basic analytic ability is required.

Basic ongoing supervision is provided. Independent judgement is necessary.

Work requires minimal physical exertion. Ability to lift and carry 10-20 pounds, stoop, reach, stand, walk, finger, grasp, feel, talk, hear, see and perform repetitive motions with or without reasonable accommodations.

Education: Bachelor's degree required.