Research Assistant - Pediatrics

Position Summary
The Wambach Lab is focused on understanding genetic disorders of surfactant metabolism, which cause severe breathing problems in newborn infants and chronic interstitial lung disease in children. Medical treatments are very limited for these rare, often lethal diseases. Our current focus is to study disease-associated mutations in the ABCA3 gene in cell-based systems and to test chemical compounds to restore normal cell function.
The successful candidate will assist with research study, experiments, preparation of material, and documentation. This work will involve cell culture, basic and advanced molecular biology techniques.

Job Description

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

• Conducts research experiments and assays focused on understanding ABCA3 biology, including but not limited to cell culture, cloning/mutagenesis, PCR and Sanger sequencing, RT-qPCR, Western blots, and fluorescent microscopy.
• Evaluates research results, reporting findings and discussing project outcomes with laboratory staff, managers, PI, and collaborators.
• Performs data entry and maintains data files on research.
• Complies with established safety procedures and maintains required documentation on laboratory and specimen conditions.
• Coordinates research project with other institutions and investigators.
• Participates in developing hypotheses to be tested and ways of testing it.
• Assists with general supply/equipment orders, preparing reagents, material shipments to collaborators, lab maintenance and cleaning.
• Performs literature research on specified topics.

Working Conditions

This position works in a laboratory environment with potential exposure to biological and chemical hazards. The individual must be physically able to wear protective equipment and to provide standard care to research animals.

Preferred Qualifications

Demonstrated ability to implement general laboratory procedures, conduct research, and record findings, with focus on pursuit of advanced education in field.  

Required Qualifications

Equivalent of bachelor’s degree with two to three years of experience in laboratory operations.

Grade
R07-H

Salary Range
$16.24 - $27.63 / Hourly

The salary range reflects base salaries paid for positions in a given job grade across the University. Individual rates within the range will be determined by factors including one's qualifications and performance, equity with others in the department, market rates for positions within the same grade and department budget.

Accommodation

If you are unable to use our online application system and would like an accommodation, please email [email protected]  or call the dedicated accommodation inquiry number at 314-935-1149 and leave a voicemail with the nature of your request.

Pre-Employment Screening
All external candidates receiving an offer for employment will be required to submit to pre-employment screening for this position. The screenings will include criminal background check and, as applicable for the position, other background checks, drug screen, an employment and education or licensure/certification verification, physical examination, certain vaccinations and/or governmental registry checks. All offers are contingent upon successful completion of required screening.

Benefits Statement
Washington University in St. Louis is committed to providing a comprehensive and competitive benefits package to our employees. Benefits eligibility is subject to employment status, full-time equivalent (FTE) workload, and weekly standard hours. Please visit our website at https://hr.wustl.edu/benefits/ to view a summary of benefits.

EEO/AA Statement
Washington University in St. Louis is committed to the principles and practices of equal employment opportunity and especially encourages applications by those from underrepresented groups. It is the University’s policy to provide equal opportunity and access to persons in all job titles without regard to race, ethnicity, color, national origin, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.

Diversity Statement
Washington University is dedicated to building a diverse community of individuals who are committed to contributing to an inclusive environment – fostering respect for all and welcoming individuals from diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives. Individuals with a commitment to these values are encouraged to apply.

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