Research Assistant-Molecular Otolaryngology and Renal Research Laboratories

The Molecular Otolaryngology and Renal Research Laboratories, within the Department of Otolaryngology, is seeking a Research Assistant (RA). The lab utilizes molecular biology techniques, including PCR, sanger sequencing, allele specific PCR, multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification (MLPA), next-generation sequencing (NGS) and targeted genomic massively parallel sequencing for diagnostic testing of genetic hearing loss and rare complement-mediated renal disease. In this role, the RA will perform components of clinical diagnostic division workflows according to established laboratory procedures and work to maintain and improve the clinical testing environment, capabilities, and quality of data in the laboratory. The scheduled work hours will be Monday-Friday 8:00am-5:00pm.

Position Responsibilities:

·       Perform high complexity testing on clinical biological specimens such as blood, saliva, and DNA.

·       Able to properly manage time based on established priorities.

·       Perform appropriate documentation and maintain accurate and legible records.

·       Perform routine quality control, maintenance, calibration, and assist in troubleshooting of laboratory instruments.

·       Evaluate quality control results and initiate corrective action when QC metrics are not acceptable.

·       Maintain inventory and orders supplies as needed.

·       Perform a variety of molecular biology procedures that may include:

·    DNA extraction

·    Processing DNA for applications including PCR and next generation sequencing (NGS)

·    Begin and ensure proper execution of analytic pipelines for both Sanger and NGS clinical tests.

·       Accept and apply feedback in a positive, constructive manner.

·       Assist in a positive and professional manner with bench training for other laboratory colleagues within the section.

·       Participate in lab section meetings with others to discuss quality testing, workflow, efficiency strategies, problematic areas, and laboratory improvement.

·       Maintain effective working relationships with faculty, staff, students, and the public.

·       Ability to work with a variety of individuals and groups in a constructive and civil manner while appreciating the unique contribution of individuals from varied cultures, nationalities, genders, ages, etc.

·       Ability to utilize existing resources and learning to achieve or exceed desired outcomes of current and future organizational goals/needs. Able to demonstrate ethical behavior in diverse situations while producing results.

·       Ability to meet or exceed customer service needs and expectations and provide excellent service in a direct or indirect manner. Ability to effectively transmit and interpret information through appropriate communication with internal and external customers.

About the Molecular Otolaryngology and Renal Research Laboratories (MORL)

The Molecular Otolaryngology & Renal Research Laboratories are committed to excellence in providing comprehensive services in the diagnosis of genetic hearing loss and rare complement-mediated renal disease. MORL’s multidisciplinary team is comprised of board-certified physicians, bioinformaticians, a genetic counselor, and scientists. The clinical division team provides patients and families with non-syndromic hearing loss the most accurate and comprehensive genetic testing available, as well as genetic and functional testing for rare complement-mediate renal diseases.