Research Associate - Otolaryngology
Position Summary:
The Molecular Otolaryngology and Renal Research Laboratories, within the Department of Otolaryngology, is seeking a Research Associate (RA). The lab utilizes molecular and cytogenetic techniques, including PCR, sanger sequencing, 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 cytogenetic and molecular studies according to established laboratory protocols and work to maintain and improve the clinical testing environment, capabilities and quality of data in the laboratory. This position is first shift (8am – 5pm) Monday through Friday.
Position Responsibilities:
- Perform clinical laboratory activities following the standard operating procedures including:
- 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.
The department intends to hire for one position as either a Research Assistant, requisition 25003828 or Research Associate, requisition 25003832, based on the qualifications of the successful candidate. Please apply to the specific position for which you which to be considered or both.
Required Qualifications:
- A Master of Science degree or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Preference: Biology, Microbiology, Genetics or Similar
- 2-5 years of full-time equivalent experience with project coordination including time management, decision making, and self-direction in microbiology, biology, chemistry, or a similar discipline.
- Excellent organizational, interpersonal, and communication (both verbal and written) skills.
- Experience with molecular biology techniques including PCR, Sanger sequencing, and gel electrophoresis
- Experience in DNA extraction and quantification
- Experience in querying genomic database
- Experience developing primers, amplimer validation, and protocol development
- Experience managing large data sets and maintaining highly organized and detailed experimental records
- Excellent organizational, interpersonal, and communication (both verbal and written) skills
- Proficiency in computer software applications, including Microsoft Office Suite
- Ability to analyze information and situations, prioritize tasks, and develop solutions to challenges
- Ability to use good judgment while working independently and in a team setting
Desired Qualifications:
- A Master’s degree in a genetic, biological, or clinical laboratory sciences or related field is highly desirable.
- Greater than two years of demonstrated experience working in either a clinical laboratory and/or a molecular research laboratory.
- Experience evaluating genetic variants for significance using computational methods
- Knowledge of Sanger Sequencing and/or next generation sequencing (NGS) technologies is highly desirable.
- Experience preparing solutions and purchasing supplies
- Understanding of clinical testing conduct as outlined in a testing protocol is desirable.
- Demonstrated ability to resolve issues related to workflow changes and challenges.
- Willingness to learn relevant lab protocols under supervision of the lab director and other staff
- Experience preparing solutions and purchasing supplies
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 ashley-rayer@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.
