Research Assistant I

Back to search results Apply now Job no:937281
Work type:Support Staff
Pay Grade: 11
Major Administrative Unit / College: College Of Human Medicine
Department: Physiology Human Medicine 10022668
Sub Area: AP- Professionals
Salary: Salary Commensurate with Experience
Location:East Lansing
Categories:Research/Scientific, Administrative Professionals- AP, Full Time (90-100%), Union

The research group led by Dr. Qingguang Zhang in the Department of Physiology at Michigan State University is currently accepting applications of a full-time Research Assistant I position to perform research activities and administrative tasks, maintain lab equipment, and manage inventory, and purchasing.

The research in Dr. Zhang’s lab focuses on delineating the pathways that regulate normal brain hemodynamics and further determining how regulatory networks are perturbed in aging and neurodegenerative diseases. We utilize a variety of approaches including optical imaging (spectroscopy, two-photon imaging, fiberphotometry), electrophysiology, molecular tools (optogenetics, DREADDs) and computational modeling to study these questions in mouse model. For more information on the lab and our research interests, please visit zhanglabmsu.github.io .

The candidate’s duties and responsibilities include, but not limited to, the following:

• Perform preventative maintenance, service, and calibration of laboratory equipment.
• Assist faculty and students in the design, construction, operation, and maintenance of specialized laboratory equipment and projects.
• Maintain chemical use records and submit monthly reports to the Office of Environmental Health and Safety; arrange for proper disposal of old or potentially dangerous chemicals no longer useable, or which are regulated by state and federal laws.
• Order and maintain stock of spare parts and materials for equipment maintenance and repairs; obtain approvals for orders.
• Perform site and safety checks on building areas and equipment following prescribed procedures, report issues to supervisor or the appropriate personnel.

This position is well suited for recent graduates interested in a career in biotechnology, however, all qualified individuals are encouraged to apply. The starting salary is $50,549. This is a limited term position funded for one year from date of hire with reappointment contingent on satisfactory performance and available funding. The duties to be performed by this position requires regular in-person presence in East Lansing, MI and it is not remote-only compatible. The position is not eligible for visa sponsorship.

MSU Statement:

Michigan State University has been advancing the common good with uncommon will for more than 160 years. One of the top research universities in the world, MSU pushes the boundaries of discovery and forges enduring partnerships to solve the most pressing global challenges while providing life-changing opportunities to a diverse and inclusive academic community through more than 200 programs of study in 17 degree-granting colleges.

Department of Physiology Statement:

The Department of Physiology and Division of Pathology Division have significant teaching and research missions. The position works with a global community of internationally recognized scholars from diverse nationalities, ethnicities, and backgrounds; two large undergraduate majors (Physiology and Neuroscience) with approximately 1,200 majors combined; the Molecular, Cellular, and Integrative Physiology (MCIP) graduate program, popularly combined with professional degrees (MD, DO, DVM); and vibrant research programs in areas such as cancer biology, cardiac pathophysiology, diabetes and obesity, gastrointestinal health and disease, immunity and tissue inflammation, musculoskeletal diseases, molecular metabolism and disease, and neuroscience.

The discipline of physiology is uniquely positioned among the biomedical sciences to span the gulf between exploring the most fundamental aspects of biology and the most practical and applied problems of human and animal health. Faculty in the Physiology Department at Michigan State University work to understand how the vast array of molecular and cellular events successfully integrate to define the phenomenon of human existence.

The Physiology Department Mission:

• Identify factors and molecules that promote health and disease.
• Understand mechanisms of disease progression.
• Improve overall human and animal health through identification of novel therapeutic targets and treatments.
• Train future scientists in state-of-the-art physiology concepts & approaches.

The Department of Physiology at Michigan State University embraces diversity in its faculty, students, and staff. We are committed to providing an environment that nurtures and values the inclusion of different backgrounds, ideas, perspectives, and skills. Engaging the unique and diverse contributions of our department members results in innovation and excellence in our research, teaching, service, and outreach. We take pride in the strength of our diversity and our ability to work together with respect and equality.

Knowledge equivalent to that which normally would be acquired by completing a four-year college degree program in life sciences or a related field; one to three years of related non-course based and progressively more responsible or expansive work experience in standard laboratory procedures and safety requirements and performing analytical and research techniques in an area related to research being performed; may require software specific to the area of research; or an equivalent combination of education and experience. The position may require special licensing or certification in the field related to the area of employment. 

Candidates must demonstrate that they are detail oriented, highly self-motivated, organized, and be enthusiastic to work both individually and as part of a collaborative and multidisciplinary team.

Preference will be given to candidates with:

1) previous experience working in a laboratory technician role

2) lab management experience

3) excellent and effective communication skills

4) demonstrate participation in programs designed to promote inclusion and multicultural perspectives and develop and foster trust in a culture of collaboration

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Complete applications must be submitted electronically through the MSU application system:

• Resume or CV
• 2-3 contact information of professional references knowledgeable of your work
• Cover letter detailing your relevant experiences and how you will contribute to building an inclusive lab culture

The University will provide reasonable accommodation to applicants with disabilities throughout the employment application process. To request an accommodation pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, complete this Resource Center for Persons with Disabilities contact form . Michigan State University is committed to recruiting and supporting a diverse student body, faculty, and administrative staff.

STANDARD 8-5

This is an off-dated position funded for one year from date of hire with possible extension contingent upon funding renewal,

PSL.MSU.EDU

Employees may work with or near human and/or animal blood and/or tissues; live animals; bio-hazardous chemicals and materials; viruses, bacteria, and other pathogens; radioactive materials; medical waste; and sharp implements.

Advertised:Apr 3, 2024 Eastern Daylight Time
Applications close:May 3, 2024 Eastern Daylight Time