Core Facility Research Assist
The Iowa Institute of Human Genetics (IIHG) is seeking a Core Facility Research Assistant to provide specialized services and consultation to researchers/investigators in a core research facility to facilitate highly technical and specialized scientific research. Core facilities provide cost-effective, on-site equipment and materials. Conduct experimental assays and tests on samples submitted for research and clinical studies. Assume responsibility for the daily operation of genome and gene expression analysis services using state-of the-art sequencing technologies.
Percent Time: 100%
The mission of the Iowa Institute of Human Genetics (IIHG) is to bring personalized genomic medicine to patients across Iowa, and beyond. The unique environment of the IIHG at the University of Iowa provides unprecedented opportunities to make progress in the discovery and translational phases of human genetics. By integrating state-wide activities in human genetics, the IIHG is able to promote clinical care, research and education focused on the medical and scientific significance in the human genome.
The IIHG Genomics Division is a CLIA certified, College of American Pathologists (CAP) accredited laboratory. The division provides a broad spectrum of resources designed to make the techniques of genomics, functional genomics, and recombinant DNA technology readily available to the University of Iowa research and clinical communities and outside users.
Duties to include:
Specialized Services/ Application of Research Protocols:
Perform DNA and RNA sequence analysis on samples provided by research and clinical investigators. Operate and maintain sequencing, microarray and gene expression and support instrumentation used in a genomics laboratory. Perform computer operations required for data collection and analysis.
Perform the standard operating procedures required to execute the services provided by a core research facility.
Perform research activities based upon protocols developed by Core Directors or other core staff.
Work with other core facility staff or facility director in using the core facility's specialized equipment or services.
Assist with collecting and disseminating data by operating the facility's instrumentation, equipment, performing specialized services for researchers and assist with performing complex procedures and techniques.
Operate facility instrumentation or equipment, evaluate data quality, and document results.
As individual skills develop, may propose modifications to protocols and/or assist in the design of experiment protocols based on specialized knowledge and expertise.
Assist researchers by providing technical information and consultation in the proper preparation of samples for genome sequencing analysis.
Acquire practical knowledge of other activities and services within the IIHG Genomics Division. Periodically provide assistance and/or fill in for other research assistants in the laboratory during vacation/sick leave periods.
Duties will include but are not limited to: Perform quality control of nucleic acid samples submitted for genome sequencing and microarray analysis, prepare libraries for NGS sequencing, process samples for single-cell analysis, process samples for DNA microarray analysis, prepare samples for Sanger sequencing.
Operate instrumentation used for genome/DNA sequencing and gene expression analysis. Maintain records of laboratory activities.
Literature Review/ Data Analysis:
Read and review articles as directed by senior staff or the director for the purposes of improving the quality of the service.
Assist in performing data analysis for researchers using specialized data analysis software in a form useful for further statistical analysis or publication.
May assist in interpreting experimental data.
Educate, Train and Consult:
Assist in providing education, training, and consultation to core facility users on highly specialized equipment or technology.
May assist in providing advice and guidance in either self-service or full-service core facility.
Provide instruction to researchers in sample preparation and quality control techniques, and usage of analysis software. Assist in the teaching of technical workshops related to genome sequencing analysis.
Facilities, Equipment and Information Management:
Assist in the preparation, calibration and maintenance of core lab and specialized core facility equipment.
Maintain archives of all data generated within the facility. Retrieve archived information upon request from researchers. Maintain computer databases of all activity. Create reports for monthly billing of accounts.
Assist in the gathering of information and data necessary for the generation of budgetary reports for Iowa Institute of Human Genetics review and for NIH funding consideration.
Work with other facility staff or facility director in using the facility's specialized equipment or services.
Administrative and Financial Responsibility for Fee for Service Operation:
Maintain clear and accurate documentation of the protocols, instrumentation logs, and/or data collected by the core.
Initiate purchases of supplies and inventory for facility.
May assist with the administrative duties necessary for a fee-for-service facility operation such as collecting and/or entering facility billing data.
Adhere to safety and compliance guidelines.
Human Resources/ Supervision:
May train, provide direction, assignments, feedback of employees to assure outcomes are achieved.
Perform other duties as assigned.
Required Qualifications:
A Bachelor's degree in Biochemistry, Biomedical Engineering, or other biological science, or an appropriate combination of education and years of experience working in an academic research environment.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills are required.
The ability to work in a service laboratory team environment are required.
Experience in working with nucleic acids as a requirement.
Desirable Qualifications:
Experience in PCR, is desirable.
Familiarity with the use of Windows computers and software is desirable.
Experience with recombinant DNA techniques and DNA/RNA purification, Sanger sequencing, NGS sequencing, RNA-Seq, single-cell sequencing, and DNA/RNA sequence analysis is desirable.
Position and Application details:
In order to be considered for an interview, applicants must upload the following documents and mark them as a “Relevant File” to the submission:
· Resume
· Cover Letter
Job openings are posted for a minimum of 14 calendar days and may be removed from posting and filled any time after the original posting period has ended.
Successful candidates will be required to self-disclose any conviction history and will be subject to a criminal background check and credential/education verification. Up to 5 professional references will be requested at a later step in the recruitment process.
For additional questions, please contact stacy-pruter@uiowa.edu
Equal opportunity/affirmative action employer
The University of Iowa is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment free from discrimination on the basis of race, creed, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, pregnancy (including childbirth and related conditions), disability, genetic information, status as a U.S. veteran, service in the U.S. military, sexual orientation, gender identity, or associational preferences.
Persons with disabilities who need assistance or accommodations with the application or interview process may contact University Human Resources/Faculty and Staff Disability Services, (319) 335-2660 or fsds@uiowa.edu. For jobs in UI Health care, please contact UI Health care Leave & Disability Administration at 319-356-7543.
