Research Technologist 1 - job 2 of 2

Position for a Research Technologist in the Bozza lab (https://groups.nbp.northwestern.edu/bozza/) in the Department of Neurobiology at Northwestern University (Evanston). The lab works at the interface of mouse molecular genetics, chemistry, physiology, and behavior. The position will conduct lab work and assist in the design and execution of experiments. Current projects involve transgenesis, gene targeting, CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing, histology, in vivo imaging, and behavioral assays.

The primary responsibility will be the shared maintenance and organization of a substantial colony of transgenic and gene-targeted mouse strains. This requires planning of breeding schemes and genotyping of resulting progeny. Other scientific activities will include playing a central role in ongoing projects requiring molecular cloning, histology, cell culture, and confocal microscopy. Administrative activities include tracking and ordering lab supplies and general lab maintenance. Expected to present progress and data in scientific group meetings. The position requires strong basic skills in mathematics, facility with computers, and the ability to understand and judge the validity of data. Must have exceptionally strong organizational skills and must work well in a team. The position requires working directly with animals (mice). The ideal candidate would have a strong interest in pursuing a career in science or medicine.

A Bachelor's degree in biology, chemistry, engineering, neuroscience or related fields is preferred.

Please note: Willingness to work with mice, willingness to occasionally work evenings or weekends if experiments require

Specific Responsibilities:

• Follows pre-defined protocols, policies, procedure, regulations, Good Laboratory Practices and conducts experiments and completes basic trouble- shooting techniques.
• Sets-up, operates and maintains standard lab equipment.
• Using an entry level of skill, completes the following activities (please highlight):
  • Molecular Biology:
    • DNA, RNA, Protein isolation, purification and expression
    • Southern, Northern, Western blotting
    • PCR, RT-PCR
    • Plasmid preparation
    • Cloning, mapping and sequencing of DNA
    • Recombinant virus production and purification
  • Histology:
    • Tissue fixation/processing: embedding, preparation of blocks and sectioning, staining
    • Immunohistochemistry
    • Microscopy
  • Immunology:
    • Flow cytometry
    • ELISA, Elispot assay
    • Cytokine assay
    • Antibody production and purification
  • Animal:
    • Husbandry
    • Breeding and screening transgenic mice
    • Dissections
    • Blood collection
    • Surgical procedures
    • Database management of colony
• Records test results and may maintain databases.
• Completes standard and routine clerical duties such as copying, filing, data entry, word processing, etc.
• Maintains inventory of reagents, mice and lab supplies

Miscellaneous

• Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

• HS diploma or equivalent and some basic science courses is required.

Minimum Competencies: (Skills, knowledge, and abilities.)

• Demonstrated laboratory experience in molecular biology;
• Demonstrated ability to follow detailed instructions as required by research protocols;
• Demonstrated computer skills, including spreadsheets and basic computations;
• Attention to detail and accurate record keeping;
• Ability to work independently and in a team environment;
• Manual dexterity.
• Ability to work with animals (mice).

Preferred Qualifications:

• Mouse handling and colony management, molecular biology, gene expression analysis, good organizational skills

Benefits:
At Northwestern, we are proud to provide meaningful, competitive, high-quality health care plans, retirement benefits, tuition discounts and more! Visit us at https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/benefits/index.html to learn more.

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