Research Assistant or Associate-Molecular Otolaryngology and Renal Research Laboratories (Genetics)

*The Department of Otolaryngology is growing and intends to hire at either the Research Assistant or Research Associate role. This classification will be based on the qualifications of the successful candidate. You must notate on their Cover Letter the classification (Research Assistant or Research Associate) you wish to be considered for or indicate both.

The University of Iowa Health Care Department of Otolaryngology is seeking a Research Assistant or Associate

to perform clinical molecular diagnostic testing in the areas of genetic hearing loss and rare complement-mediated renal disease. The Research Associate (RA) will work with whole blood, saliva, and DNA samples received into the Molecular Otolaryngology and Renal Research Laboratories – Clinical Diagnostics Services (MORL CDS).  The RA will perform sample accessioning, DNA extraction and quantification, PCR, Sanger sequencing, MLPA testing, develop primers, perform next generation sequencing (NGS), evaluate genetic variants using computation methods, report results, maintain inventory, and quality management for the CDS. Key areas of responsibilities include conducting clinical and research activities/experiments, collecting, analyzing and summarizing data, preparing reports, contributing to manuscripts/publications, administrative and project management, facilities and equipment management, and supervision/staffing.  Specifically, these responsibilities will apply within the setting of a renal and hearing clinical and research laboratory molecular biology methodologies. This position is from (8am – 5pm) Monday through Friday.

Research Assistant:

·       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.

Research Associate:

·       Perform clinical laboratory activities following the standard operating procedures including:

o   DNA extraction and quantification, gel electrophoresis, PCR, RT-PCR, Sanger sequencing, and MLPA (multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification).

·       Protocol optimization including primer development and testing of conditions and procedures.

·       Calibrate, maintain, and operate laboratory equipment including thermocyclers, centrifuges, and spectrophotometers.

·       Arrange and plan daily activities to coordinate with genetic CDS team members to adhere to clinical diagnostic service turn-around-times.

·       Perform and meet proficiency and competency testing standards and maintain data and equipment records according to regulatory guidelines.

·       Collect, record, and consolidate experimental progress and data in MS Word and Excel spreadsheets for clinical and research purposes as directed by the genetics team and/or the lab director.

·       Perform data entry and correction on source documents and into electronic data capture system.

·       Adhere to quality assurance, safety, and compliance guidelines as directed by governing bodies over a clinical diagnostics laboratory.

·       Read and review articles as directed.

·       As individual skills develop, develop and validate genetic tests including investigation of genes, development of assays and evaluation of screening techniques.

·       As individual skills develop: troubleshoot, analyze, and propose modifications to protocols; perform complex techniques per protocol; test and evaluate current procedures; develop and implement procedures for monitoring data integrity; present results at team meetings. 

·       As skills develop, prepare bibliographies and abstracts for publications and may present results/finding at team, departmental and national meetings.

·       As skills develop, may train, provide direction, assignments, feedback, coaching, and counseling of employees to assure outcomes are achieved.