Research Specialist

100089BR

Campus: Tempe

Research Specialist

Job Description

The Andrews Lab in the School of Biological and Health Systems Engineering (SBHSE) at Arizona State University is seeking an outstanding Research Specialist to join our research team. This position will focus on developing cell cultures models of brain development and neurological diseases. The successful candidate should have a background in using cell culture methods to study developmental biology, neuroscience, or bioengineering. The candidate will be responsible for the maintenance of pluripotent stem cell lines and differentiation into neural organoids and support of mouse line maintenance for a variety of lab projects.  The role will also include administrative support for ordering lab supplies.

Job Family

Research & Laboratory

Department Name

Sch Biological & Hlth Sys Engr

Full-Time/Part-Time

Full-Time

Grant Funded Position

This is a grant funded position. Continuation is contingent on future grant funding.

Salary Range

$42,436 - $45,000 per year; DOE

Essential Duties

• Assists the principal investigator in a variety of research activities related to the study of neurodevelopment and disease.
• Performs maintenance, differentiation, and characterization of human pluripotent stem cell-derived lines and neural organoid cultures.
• May supervise, monitor of coordinate work of subordinates.
• Performs skilled procedures, tests and analyses requiring the delicate manipulation and/or fine adjustments to equipment in response to activity of the sample or specimen being used.
• Analyzes data and writes research progress reports including summarizing test results of participating investigators and assists in the preparation and writing of papers for publication; assists in writing reports on one or more aspects for large archaeological projects.
• Performs administrative functions such as assisting in projecting budgets and procuring laboratory space, supplies and equipment.
• Coordinates and/or conducts library and computer searches for research or archaeological data, some of which may include specialized archival research; modifies, adapts or varies standard procedures to meet the needs of the project and improves tests that are unsatisfactory.
• Assists in the design and implementation of statistical techniques and computer data systems including establishing coding formats for future scientific research data collection.
• Assists in judging the validity of data obtained from experimental procedures and recommends additional tests and/or modifications.
• Generates computerized statistical data for analytical purposes using a variety of scientific software packages; interprets data for research or archaeological projects.
• Creates and manages databases for studies which includes setting up database and associated data entry programs and retrieving data from database for purposes of analyses or data review.
• Designs and modifies questionnaires or other data collection or sampling instruments or data summarization methods, procedures or reporting formats.
• Operates and maintains laboratory and experimental equipment such as microtomes, microscopes, electron microscopes, spectrophotometers, centrifuges, analytical balances, photometers, spectrometers and vacuum and optical coating systems; performs repairs and makes arrangements for repairs to be performed; assists in the design and fabrication of research equipment.
• Performs complex necropsies and surgical procedures on research animals.
• Assists in the development of written operating procedures and performs quality control checks to ensure procedures are followed.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in a field appropriate to the area of assignment AND two years related research experience; OR, Six years research experience appropriate to the area of assignment; OR, Any equivalent combination of experience and/or education from which comparable knowledge, skills and abilities have been achieved.

Desired Qualifications

• Demonstrated knowledge of modern research methods, data collection and analysis and skill in their application.
• Evidence of effective communication.
• Experience in analyzing and evaluating data.
• Experience in report writing.
• Experience in a molecular biology-focused research lab including hands-on experience with cell culture methods, rodent handling, data collection, maintenance of records, operation and maintenance of research specific equipment including minor repairs or scheduling of major repairs, inventory, and requisition of supplies.
• Evidence of a BS in molecular biology, stem cell biology, bioengineering, or related discipline, plus 2+ years of experience in molecular biology including techniques such as stem cell culture, immunofluorescence, microscopy, RNA isolation and PCR.  
• Experience working independently and collaboratively with colleagues.

Working Environment

• Activities are primarily performed in a molecular biology wet lab, cell culture facility, and vivarium subject to extended periods of sitting or standing.
• Visual acuity and manual dexterity associated with daily use of desktop computer, bending, stooping, reaching, and lifting to 20 pounds.
• Ability to work both independently and within a structured team is required.
• May be required to wear personal protective equipment in the laboratory including but not limited to lab coat, gloves, face masks, safety glasses, and closed toe shoes.
• May work with animals or animal tissues
• May operate laboratory and experimental equipment such as microscopes, centrifuges, cryostat, biosafety cabinets, incubators, and cell shakers.
• Potential to work evenings or weekends, as needed given experimental needs. 

Department Statement

The Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering is the largest producer of engineering and technical talent in the nation and seeks to deliver a world-class learning experience for our students and to advance research and innovation – all at scale. We value and emphasize inherently interdisciplinary endeavors that leverage the breadth and depth of expertise among our outstanding faculty and have built a unique place for large-scale innovation characterized by foundational excellence and translational impacts. We are an engineering school on the rise at the most innovative university in the country and in the heart of the nation’s fifth largest metropolitan area. The scale of our faculty research interests and interdisciplinary mindset, combined with more than 48 graduate degree programs and 25 undergraduate degree programs, provide the foundation for knowledge generation and collaborative opportunities to advance new ideas. 

The Fulton Schools of Engineering, located across ASU’s Tempe and Polytechnic campuses, is comprised of seven schools based on academic programs and research areas. Fulton Engineering has a nationally recognized faculty that conducts research, instructs and mentors students, provides service to engineering, computing and technology professions and creates lasting impacts across local and global communities. 

The Fulton Schools of Engineering follows a framework of values designed to distinguish our practice and guide daily decisions in our academic, research, corporate engagement and entrepreneurial endeavors. These values influence how we recognize, reward and communicate our achievements. At the Fulton Schools of Engineering, we: 

• Cultivate excellence. 
• Deliver innovation that matters. 
• Encourage bold thinking. 
• Foster a community of learning and collaboration. 
• Build a foundation for all to be successful. 

Working at ASU has outstanding benefits that include: health, dental and vision insurance plans; ASU/UA/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; life insurance and disability programs; sick leave and holidays; state and optional retirement plans; access to ASU recreation and cultural activities, and more. To estimate the value of your total compensation, please visit

https://cfo.asu.edu/compensation-estimator

. 

ASU Statement

Arizona State University is a new model for American higher education, an unprecedented combination of academic excellence, entrepreneurial energy and broad access. This New American University is a single, unified institution comprising four differentiated campuses positively impacting the economic, social, cultural and environmental health of the communities it serves. Its research is inspired by real world application blurring the boundaries that traditionally separate academic disciplines. ASU serves more than 100,000 students in metropolitan Phoenix, Arizona, the nation's fifth largest city. ASU champions intellectual and cultural diversity, and welcomes students from all fifty states and more than one hundred nations across the globe.

ASU is a tobacco-free university. For details visit https://wellness.asu.edu/explore-wellness/body/alcohol-and-drugs/tobacco

Arizona State University is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor and an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other basis protected by law.

Notice of Availability of the ASU Annual Security and Fire Safety Report
In compliance with federal law, ASU prepares an annual report on campus security and fire safety programs and resources. ASU’s Annual Security and Fire Safety Report is available online at https://www.asu.edu/police/PDFs/ASU-Clery-Report.pdf. You may request a hard copy of the report by contacting the ASU PD at 480-965-3456.

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Employment Verification Statement

ASU conducts pre-employment screening which may include verification of work history, academic credentials, licenses, and certifications.

Background Check Statement

ASU conducts pre-employment screening for all positions which includes a criminal background check, verification of work history, academic credentials, licenses, and certifications. Employment is contingent upon successful passing of the background check.

Fingerprint Check Statement

This position is considered safety/security sensitive and will include a fingerprint check. Employment is contingent upon successful passing of the fingerprint check.

Instructions to Apply

Application deadline is 3:00PM Arizona time on the date indicated.

Please include all employment information in month/year format (e.g., 6/88 to 8/94), job title, job duties and name of employer for each position.

Resume should clearly illustrate how prior knowledge and experience meets the Minimum and Desired qualifications of this position.

ASU does not pay for travel expenses associated with interviews, unless otherwise indicated.

Only electronic applications are accepted for this position.

IMPORTANT NOTE: What is the meaning of “equivalent combination” in the minimum qualifications? It means one year of higher education or 24 credit hours, is equal to one year of experience. For example, a four year Bachelor’s degree is equal to four years of experience.