Research Assistant I - Xing Lab

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A Brief Overview

The Xing laboratory at The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and University of Pennsylvania seeks an experienced research assistant to assist in running a busy experimental laboratory, including conducting routine molecular biology experiments. Among other duties, the candidate will have specific responsibilities in generating numerous genomic and transcriptomic sequencing libraries. In this position, the candidate will have the opportunity to work with state-of-the-art next-generation sequencing (NGS) technologies, including but not limited to RNA-seq, single-cell RNA-seq, Oxford Nanopore long-read sequencing, and others. The candidate will be involved in all aspects of the lab’s NGS workflows, developing new methodologies for these technologies, as well as implementing and troubleshooting NGS protocols.

The Xing laboratory studies splicing in human diseases, including cancer. Post-transcriptional RNA processing and modifications are important mechanisms for gene regulation and functional diversity in eukaryotic cells. The lab develops and applies high-throughput sequencing strategies and transcriptomic engineering technologies to study the regulation and function of RNA splicing in human diseases.

The ideal candidate will:

• Assist in running a busy experimental laboratory, including maintaining mammalian cell cultures, performing molecular assays including molecular cloning, and keeping clear experimental records according to a specific format.
• Communicate complex ideas and concepts to those with limited knowledge and understanding, as well as to peers.
• Have a Bachelor’s degree and at least 2 years of relevant experience or a Master’s degree in Molecular/Cell Biology, Biotechnology, or a related discipline from a leading academic institution.
• Have specific research expertise in the following areas are required or preferred: experience with handling RNA samples (required), NGS or third-generation sequencing experience(preferred), genomics studies(preferred).

What you will do

• Independently perform advanced, complex research procedures on experimental samples
• Formulate and perform lab experiments, analyze results, interpret methodology, report data, and maintain appropriate log books and lab notebook
• Modify methods and protocols as required with minimum direction from PI/Sr. Scientist
• Assist in development and troubleshooting of new techniques and ideas
• Prepare lab reagents, monitor and maintain lab inventory
• Supervise, train, and mentor junior and new staff members
• Determine work assignments, schedules, and lab priorities
• Present and discuss work at weekly lab meetings and national symposia
• Assist in writing of grants, journal articles, poster, and oral presentations

Education Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree Required

Experience Qualifications

• At least three (3) years of scientifically relevant experience Required
• At least five (5) years of scientifically relevant experience Preferred

Skills and Abilities

• Proficient in various research and/or analytical techniques required

To carry out its mission, CHOP is committed to supporting the health of our patients, families, workforce, and global community. As a condition of employment, professionals working onsite—at any CHOP location, for any portion of time—must be vaccinated for COVID-19. Learn more.

CHOP also requires employees who work in patient care buildings to receive an annual influenza vaccine. Employees may request exemptions for valid religious and medical reasons. Start dates may be delayed until candidates are immunized or exemption requests are reviewed.

EEO / VEVRAA Federal Contractor | Tobacco Statement

• Independently perform advanced, complex research procedures on experimental samples
• Formulate and perform lab experiments, analyze results, interpret methodology, report data, and maintain appropriate log books and lab notebook
• Modify methods and protocols as required with minimum direction from PI/Sr. Scientist
• Assist in development and troubleshooting of new techniques and ideas
• Prepare lab reagents, monitor and maintain lab inventory
• Supervise, train, and mentor junior and new staff members
• Determine work assignments, schedules, and lab priorities
• Present and discuss work at weekly lab meetings and national symposia
• Assist in writing of grants, journal articles, poster, and oral presentations