Research Associate - Anatomy and Cell Biology (Jones Lab)

This Research Associate position is in the Jones Laboratory within the Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology. The Jones lab investigates the pathophysiology and biology of lung disease in animal and 3D cell culture models, with a particular focus in stem cell biology and tissue regeneration. We use cutting-edge tools such as single cell genomics, epigenomics, high-resolution microscopy, novel transgenic mouse models, and customized bioinformatics pipelines to address our research questions.
https://joneslunglab.github.io

The Research Associate will contribute to mechanistic studies of lung regeneration and disease by designing and executing experiments in animal models and 3D organoid systems. This position requires scientific independence, critical thinking, and the ability to drive components of research projects.

Duties Include:

Research:

·         Perform research in a specialized area of lung biology, including fibroblast–epithelial interactions and tissue regeneration

·         Critically evaluate scientific literature and contribute to hypothesis generation

·         Adapt and optimize experimental protocols from the literature

Conduct Experiments:

·         Design and execute experiments in mouse models of lung injury and 3D organoid systems

·         Perform advanced molecular and cellular biology techniques, including:

o   Single-cell genomics (RNA/ATAC-seq workflows)

o   High-resolution imaging and image analysis

o   Flow cytometry and cell sorting

·         Independently perform and optimize procedures such as genotyping, PCR, qRT-PCR, and cell culture

·         Troubleshoot experimental challenges and propose modifications to protocols

·         Contribute to the design and refinement of research strategies

Collect and Analyze Research Data and Prepare Reports: 

 Perform quantitative and statistical analysis of experimental data

 Interpret results and contribute to scientific conclusions

Prepare figures and contribute to manuscript writing and grant materials

 Present findings at lab meetings

Administrative and Project Management

Assist with or independently prepare IACUC protocols and regulatory documentation

Track project progress and ensure data integrity and reproducibility

Facilities and Equipment:

Coordinate maintenance and troubleshooting of laboratory equipment

Evaluate and implement new techniques or technologies

Assist in managing laboratory resources and workflows

Supervision/Staffing:

Train and mentor students and junior staff in laboratory techniques

Provide guidance on experimental design and execution

May assist in onboarding and supervising research personnel

Collaboration:

Work collaboratively in a team-oriented research environment

Demonstrate professionalism and respect in interactions with individuals from various backgrounds

Positive Impact/Achieving Results:  

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.

Ideal Candidate

Highly motivated, reliable, and eager to learn

Our mission is to inspire and educate world class health care providers and scientists for the people of Iowa and our global community. Researchers in the College's over 280 laboratories are served by state-of-the-art core research facilities and research support facilities. Much of the research conducted is interdisciplinary and collaborations are fostered and coordinated through major research centers, institutes, and programs. Many faculty members are internationally renowned for their research. Two faculty members are Howard Hughes Institute Investigators, 12 are members of the Institute of Medicine and two are members of the National Academy of Sciences.

Percent of Time: 100%

Pay Grade: 4A

Type of Position:  Specified Term. Initial appointment is for one year. Appointment may be extended based on performance and availability of funding.

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