Technical Research Assistant II RESEARCH NEUROLOGY

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Under general supervision breeds and maintains common use mouse strains and use molecular techniques (PCR, quantitative PCR) and cellular techniques (flow cytometry) to genotype transgenic and knockout mice.
• Maintains basic records of mouse breeding, methodologies and test results in a log of work performed.
• Performs basic cell culture and in vitro alpha-synuclein assays by western blotting, and examination of receptor expression level by ELISA, intracytoplasmic staining, and cytometric bead array.
• Performs RNA quantification, tissue RNA isolation and RNA quality analysis by commercially available kits and protocols.
• Performs in vivo experiments involving behavioral studies such as rotarod and pole testing, open field testing and clasping scores and uses ImageJ-analyses or other software for measurement.
• Assists in the orientation and training of new staff in established laboratory techniques.
• Coordinates daily schedule of experiments.
• Responsible for data management: collects, records, tabulates and presents data. Creates graphs of experimental, performs statistical tests, and discusses progress of work regularly with supervisor.
• Uses judgment during experimental execution and meticulously performs procedures described laboratory protocols, research journals or devised with immediate supervisor.
• Basic understanding in light and confocal microscopy.
• All other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Must have a Bachelor's degree and at least one-year experience in a directly related research setting.

SKILLS/ABILITIES/COMPETENCIES REQUIRED:

- High degree of computer literacy.

- Sound analytical and organizational skills.

- Good oral and written communication skills.

- Structures logically and effectively tasks and set priorities.

- Is able to identify potential problems and trouble-shoot solutions.

- Demonstrates ability to analyze data statistically and to logically present it.

- Shows strong interpersonal communication skills.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

- Normal laboratory environment.

- Hazardous materials are used in some of the experiments conducted.

- Animal tissue will be used.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY:

Responsible for training and orienting new staff. May serve as a team leader or supervisor in a smaller research setting.