Senior Research Associate
University of Missouri - Columbia (MU)
Columbia, MO
Full-time
Research
Posted on April 13, 2024
Job Description
Recently, the National Institute of Health has funded a center at the University of Missouri focused on evaluating gene editing (GE) methods and outcomes in swine animal models. Current projects are targeting genes related to vision, hearing, brain and neuron function; other projects are focused on genes involved in diseases and functions of the lung and bone marrow. TheSeniorResearch Associateis a member of the Swine Somatic Cell Gene Editing Testing Center. Their role involves the evaluation of animals' physiological and immunological responses to gene editing reagents or to the altered genes themselves. This person's primary roles are expected to involve: coordinating projects and implementing delivery of reagents to pigs; immunohistochemistry of target proteins; toxicology screens; and the implementation of immunoassays/cell-based assays to measure inflammatory responses in the test animals. The person may also participate in projects designed to produce pig models that mirror human disease states. Related efforts would be focused on the production of GE reagents intended to correct or modify mutant or disease-associated alleles. The candidate will utilize multiple technology platforms, including thermocyclers, visible/fluorescent/luminescent plate readers, light/fluorescent/confocal microscopy, and flow cytometry. This position will also manage tissue/sample collections for the transfer, development, validation, and execution of assays performed elsewhere.
Major Responsibilities:
- Prioritize and self-manage projects.
- Implement protocols involved in delivery of gene editing (GE) or gene therapy reagents to pigs.
- Measure relevant biomarkers on harvested tissues, serum and/or plasma.
- Perform histological evaluations of fixed and frozen tissues. Oversee development, validation, and execution of histological assessments.
- Conduct sample analysis, troubleshoot and review data from immune/cell-based assays used during GE studies.
- Interpret large data sets using statistical methods and visual tools.
- Compose sample testing plans, bioanalytical reports, and Standard Operating Procedures.
- Summarize histological/toxicity/biomarker data and present results to the testing team and collaborating groups.
- Coordinate resources and timelines for various testing center activities by communicating with principal investigators and collaborating researchers.
- Understand the latest literature and lab technologies as they apply to responsibilities of the testing center.
- Train and supervise junior members in the testing center.
- The Senior Research Associate is expected to perform duties independently or with minimal oversight.
Minimum Qualification: MS in Biological Sciences or related field required at the time of application.
Candidates will be evaluated on:
- Highest degree earned.
- relevant experience in physiology experiments, especially neurophysiology, pulmonary physiology, or development. Additional experience conducting histological evaluations, toxicity studies, diagnostics, immunoassays and/or cell-based assays would be highly valued.
- Experience with delivery of reagents to the brain, eye, or ear of any mammal.
- Strong background in immunochemical and cell-based assays, including experience with soluble immunoassays (e.g., ELISA, Luminex), multicolor flow cytometry, cell culture techniques, and general knowledge of antibodies, immunolocalization and immunoassays.
- Experience with ex vivo analysis of immune cells by flow cytometry.
- Familiarity with pharmacokinetics, anti-drug/reagent antibody assays, and biomarker testing.
- Experience collecting and working with fresh, frozen and fixed biological samples (tissues, serum and plasma).
- Familiarity with GLP regulations and regulatory guidance.
- Familiarity with Automation platforms.
- Familiarity with spreadsheets, word processing, and graphical computer programs (e.g., Excel, Word, GraphPad Prism, SAS, etc.).
- Good documentation, technical writing and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to multi-task and work in a team environment.
Apply online athttps://hr.missouri.edu/job-openings,Job ID# 48872,and upload the following documents:
1) Cover Letter
2) CV
3) Reference List
Review of applications will begin once received and continue until the position is filled.
Contact:Please direct questions to Addison Byrne via email – ByrneAK@missouri.edu.
Benefit Eligibility
This position is eligible for University benefits. The University offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental and vision plans, retirement, and educational fee discounts. For additional information on University benefits, please visit the Faculty & Staff Benefits website athttp://www.umsystem.edu/totalrewards/benefits
Values Commitment
We value the uniqueness of every individual and strive to ensure each person's success. Contributions from individuals with diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives promote intellectual pluralism and enable us to achieve the excellence that we seek in learning, research and engagement. This commitment makes our university a better place to work, learn and innovate.
In your application materials, please discuss your experiences and expertise that support these values and enrich our missions of teaching, research and engagement.
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