Lab Research Assistant 1 GRANT - Alzheimer Center - Full-time

Job Description

Location: Chicago, IL

Hospital: RUSH University Medical Center

Department: Rush Alzheimers Dis Ctr-ResFac

Work Type: Full Time (Total FTE between 0.9 and 1.0)

Shift: Shift 1

Work Schedule: 8 Hr (9:00:00 AM - 5:00:00 PM)

Job Summary:

Working independently but in close cooperation with lab managers and faculty scientists, the RA will perform routine and complex laboratory procedures. Responsibilities include providing scientific and technical feedback for tissue-based histopathology, including coordinating day-to-day digital pathology/microscopy workflows, whole slide digital scanning, image QC, digital slide system monitoring, quantitative image analysis, and data reporting. Familiarity with basic histology procedures, including fixed tissue processing, embedding, and microtomy and experience with quantitative microscopy or image analysis platforms is preferred.

Job Responsibilities:

• In collaboration with Research Technicians, Data Assistants, Scientists, and Post-Docs in the research lab, conduct basic research procedures and experiments related to routine biochemical, molecular, and histopathologic laboratory procedures involving human postmortem and antemortem biospecimens in support of several multi-disciplinary research studies of aging and Alzheimer's Disease.

• Procedures include retrieval, dissection, preservation, storage, tracking, quality assessment, and quality control of human ante-mortem and postmortem biospecimens including blood, brain, spinal cord, muscle, and nerve tissue; processing, embedding, microtomy, and immunohistochemical staining of human tissue; biochemical and molecular analysis of human biospecimens; and microscopic evaluation of completed slides to determine staining adequacy.

• Prepares specimens and performs detailed manual tests. The range of test types and specialization will vary based on the size and type of laboratory.

• Collects and records findings for research samples such as cell lines, body fluids, such as blood, urine, and tissue samples. - Operates sophisticated laboratory equipment. Uses automated equipment and computerized instruments capable of performing a number of tests at the same time.

• Follows good laboratory safety practices and comply with safety protocols.

• Logs data and experiment results in laboratory notebooks and discuss with researcher and team.

• Applies data to research work and contrast to research problem.

• Solve moderately complex problem, recognizes QA, QC, and biospecimen storage problems or discrepancies and attempts to determine cause prior to notifying appropriate personnel

• Train staff on supply and chemical inventory maintenance.

• Coordinate and train staff on postmortem human organ and tissue procurement, dissection, and preservation.

• This position requires on-call coverage as part of a 24/7 rapid autopsy team.

• May delegate procedures to lab technicians and train less experienced staff.

• May prepare data exhibits for publication or manuscripts including creation of graphics and other research related diagrams.

Required Job Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree with 3-5 years of laboratory experience; or Master's degree preferred - Knowledge of both basic and specialized laboratory instruments and software programs.

• Proficiency in standard experimental design - Knowledge and demonstration of good laboratory practice, principles and application - Attention to detail and accuracy.

• Effective oral and written communication - Strong analytic skills - Experience performing anatomical dissections required.

• Must be able to lift or move 25 pounds, perform repetitive motions required for use of pipette, saw, microtome, vibratome, and other lab equipment.

Disclaimer: The above is intended to describe the general content of and requirements for the performance of this job. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities or requirements.

RUSH IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER. WE EVALUATE QUALIFIED APPLICANTS WITHOUT REGARD TO RACE, COLOR, RELIGION, SEX, SEXUAL ORIENTATION, GENDER IDENTITY, NATIONAL ORIGIN, DISABILITY, VETERAN STATUS, AND OTHER LEGALLY PROTECTED CHARACTERISTICS.

Position Lab Research Assistant 1 GRANT - Alzheimer Center - Full-time

Location US:IL:Chicago

Req ID 2563