Research Assistant- AZ- Physiology

Summary

Our lab studies the form and function of the upper respiratory tract. The Research Assistant will be responsible for the segmentation of anatomical structures of the upper airway using reconstructed image stacks. The segmentation is performed manually using the software AVIZO. Familiarity with AVIZO software is an advantage but not required. The Research Assistant will also be involved in the daily routines of maintaining a small mouse colony. Work is performed under the direct supervision of the PI of the lab. This is a grant-funded position with funding available for 2 years.

Essential Responsibilities

• Assist in the segmentation of anatomical structures of the upper airway
• Assist in daily routines of maintaining a small mouse colony
• Collect, analyze, and interpret data using statistical software, and present findings in clear, compelling reports
• Adheres to laboratory safety procedures
• Involved in standard maintenance of the lab

Qualifications

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Must be able to work in a constant state of alertness and safe manner and have regular, predictable, in-person attendance. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Education and/or Experience

Bachelor’s degree in engineering or basic sciences related field with 0-2 years of related research experience. This individual must have strong technical skills which includes excellent visual and graphical skills.

Computer Skills

Computer proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook is required, proficiency with PowerPoint is desired.

Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

This individual will frequently sit; use hands to finger, handle or feel; reach with hands and arms. This individual will regularly be required to stand; walk; and push or pull equipment. This individual will occasionally climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl; talk and hear. This individual will regularly lift up to 10 pounds and occasionally lift up to 50 pounds. Vision must be correctable to 20/20 in both eyes, depth, color and close vision; hearing correctable to normal.

Work Environment

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to work near moving mechanical parts and vibration. The employee is occasionally exposed to fumes or airborne particles.

Midwestern University is a private, not-for-profit organization that provides graduate and post-graduate education in the health sciences. The University has two campuses, one in Downers Grove, Illinois and the other in Glendale, Arizona. More than 6,000 full-time students are enrolled in graduate programs in osteopathic medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, physician assistant studies, physical therapy, occupational therapy, nurse anesthesia, cardiovascular perfusion, podiatry, optometry, clinical psychology, speech language pathology, biomedical sciences and veterinary medicine. Over 500 full-time faculty members and 400 staff members are dedicated to the education and development of our students in an environment that encourages learning, respect for all members of the health care team, service, interdisciplinary scholarly activity, and personal growth.

We offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision insurance plans as well as life insurance, short/long term disability and pet insurance. We offer flexible spending accounts including healthcare reimbursement and child/dependent care account. We offer a work life balance with competitive time off package including paid holiday’s, sick/flex days, personal days and vacation days. We offer a 403(b) retirement plan, tuition reimbursement, child care subsidy reimbursement program, identity theft protection and an employee assistance program. Wellness is important to us and we offer a wellness facility on-site with a fully equipped fitness facility.

Midwestern University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer that does not discriminate against an employee or applicant based upon race; color; religion; creed; national origin or ancestry; ethnicity; sex (including pregnancy); gender (including gender expressions, gender identity; and sexual orientation); marital status; age; disability; citizenship; past, current, or prospective service in the uniformed services; genetic information; or any other protected class, in accord with all federal, state and local laws, including 41 C.F.R. 60-1.4(a), 250.5(a), 300.5(a) and 741.5(a). Midwestern University complies with the Smoke-Free Arizona Act (A.R.S. 36-601.01) and the Smoke Free Illinois Act (410 ILCS 82/). Midwestern University complies with the Illinois Equal Pay Act of 2003 and Arizona Equal Pay Acts.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities

The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor’s legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c)