Core Facility Research Prof - Iowa Neuroscience Institute

The Neural Circuits and Behavior Core facility, a part of the Iowa Neuroscience Institute, provides research support for the broader University of Iowa neuroscience community. The Neural Circuits and Behavior Core Facility Research Professional plays a key role in this aim by participating in the design and execution of cutting-edge research on the neural circuit and molecular mechanisms underlying brain function in health and disease. This position helps Core users conduct behavioral experiments based on researched and recommended procedures, using tested and well-maintained equipment, and in accordance with institutional policies. The individual will work to develop an expertise in the field to provide informed assistance with experimental design, execution, and analysis. They will also work to manage and maintain the Core facility and equipment to keep it operating effectively and efficiently.

Key Areas of Responsibility

Specialized Services/ Application of Research Protocols:  Work closely with researchers/investigators in conducting and/or developing highly technical and specialized scientific research procedures, experiments, simulations using the core facility's specialized equipment or services. Acquire data by operating the facility's instrumentation, equipment, or perform specialized service for researchers and perform complex procedures and techniques. Perform research tasks or data analysis consistent with the facility's protocols. Operate facility instrumentation or equipment and interpret and document results. Assure fidelity to research protocols. May propose modifications to protocols and/or assist in the design of experiment protocols based on specialized knowledge and expertise. Perform daily activities to prepare for experimental protocols and facility operation.

Literature Review/ Data Analysis:  Critically review literature as directed for the purposes of furthering the research. Assist in generating, collecting, and analyzing data. Develop new data analysis techniques or methodology. Interpret experimental data. Perform data analysis for researchers using specialized data analysis software in a form useful for further statistical analysis or publication.

Educate, Train and Consult:  Provide education, training and consultation to core facility users on highly specialized equipment, scientific research or technology. Provide advice and guidance in either a self-service or full service core facility. May, review methods sections of research papers related to core facility's specialty that will be submitted for publication.

Facilities, Equipment and Information Management:  Assist with and/or coordinate and manage equipment and facilities with users. Service, calibrate, and check equipment for proper function. Test new equipment to determine if it meets specifications. Assist with performing periodic preventative maintenance on facility instrumentation. Troubleshoot equipment failures and arrange for or help with repairs. Provide input on new instrument purchases. Remain current on emerging techniques, software programs, and instrumentation in field of expertise. Provide technical support in specialized area of research. May assist with maintenance of the facility computer systems and specialized instrument control and analysis software, facility data server, and/or researcher's data server accounts, data backup and archiving, and online reservation system and/or researcher's reservation accounts.

Administrative and Financial Responsibility for Fee for Service Operation:  Assist with the administrative duties necessary for a fee-for-service facility operation. Review facility billing data for accuracy and submit to manager/director for approval. Initiate purchases of equipment, supplies, inventory, etc. for faculty. Analyze facility use data for reports. Adhere to safety and compliance guidelines.

Human Resources/ Supervision:  May participate in hiring staff and managing staff performance to assure staff is compliant with UI policies and procedures.

Position Responsibilities

Research/User Support:

·         Trains and educates Core users on the use of Core equipment, behavioral procedures, and appropriate data analysis of collected data

·         Provides direction, feedback, and assistance to Core users on the execution of their experiments (if needed), to assure fidelity to protocols and the validity/integrity of research data

·         Monitors Core use/users to assure compliance with UI policies and procedures (including IACUC, OAR, EHS, and OSHA)

Protocol Development and Research Responsibilities:

·         Develops and maintains a knowledge of the field through familiarity with the scientific literature and attendance of internal and external meetings and conferences

·         Adapts, creates, and tests “best practice” research protocols based on careful review of the literature, consultation with other core facilities, and the communicated needs of UI core users

·         Helps to develop Core reference databases through the execution of experiments

·         Performs appropriate statistical analysis of data using “best practice” methodology and guidelines. Records, organizes, and presents laboratory data at lab meetings.  Assists in preparing data for publications, grant proposals, and presentation at local/national meetings.

Facility Administration, Coordination, and Maintenance:

·         Conducts daily management and maintenance of Core lab functions and activities as well as Core facilities and use

·         Creates and maintains Core usage data

·         Serves as a facility liaison to both internal and external stakeholders and agencies (IACUC, OAR, EHS, OSHA, etc.)

·         Supervises and trains research assistants, research interns, or undergraduate students as needed/appropriate

·         Coordinates and manages Core facility equipment (troubleshooting, testing, maintenance, acquisition, and removal). Interacts with outside vendors for purchases, budgets, and maintenance information on Core equipment.

·         Assists with facility billing and purchasing. Tracks supplies and is responsible for stocking supplies as needed for the Core lab/facility.

Regulatory Guidelines and Documents:

·         Prepares, maintains, and submits research protocols/amendments to IACUC

·         Manages and organizes regulatory documentation

·         Monitors compliance of regulatory guidelines and proper maintenance of documents

Percent of Time: 100%

Staff Type: Professional & Scientific

Pay Grade: 4A -  https://hr.uiowa.edu/professional-pay/compensation-plan-structure-a-FY18

Benefits Highlights

• Regular salaried position located in Iowa City, Iowa
• Fringe benefit package including paid vacation; sick leave; health, dental, life and disability insurance options; and generous employer contributions into retirement plans

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