Research Technologist II

Position Description:

We are seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral research fellow interested in basic and translational research focused on epigenomics in the laboratory of Dr. Raul Urrutia. A qualified candidate is expected to have excellent references from research laboratory experience(s) and be proficient in basic molecular biology research methods and experienced in cell culture. This technologist would be involved in NIH-funded studies focused on molecular and cellular mechanisms of epigenomic complexes that drive cellular identities in cancer development and/or progression, as well as inflammatory diseases. The applicant will be encouraged to present findings weekly at lab meetings with the potential to grow and present at national scientific conferences. As such, the candidate should be highly motivated, self-directed, and possess excellent communication and writing skills.

Purpose

Under general direction of lab management carryout, improve and implement a variety of laboratory techniques and specific experiments to contribute to the timely optimization of assays and production of data in a cellular and molecular biology research laboratory.  To analyze, summarize and present data generated to a team of scientists with ability to provide feedback for next steps. 

Primary Functions

• With general supervision, perform routine and complex molecular genetic methodologies including DNA/RNA extraction, PCR/qPCR, tissue culture (sterile techniques), manipulation of primary cultures or cell lines (introduction of exogenous DNA) and Western blots.  Be able to carry out written protocols and optimize procedures.
• Independently develop and perform lab research procedures with guidance and oversight of the laboratory team.  Be able to scale protocols and assays to large volume or sample number requests.
• Participate in meetings with laboratory director/managers and research staff.  Evaluate and interpret the validity of data as necessary.
• Monitor inventory, prepare media and necessary reagents for experiments, and carry out assigned duties for maintaining supply of reagents.  Operate and perform routine maintenance on specialized equipment used in the laboratory.  Notify management or director when complex problems occur. 
• Create and maintain accurate records of laboratory protocols and experimental results, ensure they are updated in a timely fashion.  Records must be available to and understandable by all staff.  Communicate summaries of research projects in individual and group meetings.
• Assist in maintenance, genotyping, and experimental studies with a colony of inbred and transgenic laboratory mice.
• Maintains effective communication with the laboratory director/management to ensure timely completion of priorities.  Will collaborate with others to complete experiments in a team-oriented environment. 
• Assist in preparation of figures and written methods for manuscripts and presentations.  In conjunction with the laboratory director/management, may present research findings or reports at educational sessions and/or conferences. 

Knowledge – Skills – Abilities

• Understand general and specific laboratory procedures, and scientific approach and methodologies.
• Knowledge of molecular biology, cellular biology, mathematics, documentation, and records management is critical.  Ability to describe and present data in PowerPoint, Excel, and GraphPad Prism is ideal. 
• An interest in or experience with ‘Omic data set analyses and programming is a plus. 
• Data utilization, problem solving, critical thinking, attentiveness to detail, and strong communication skills are required.  Applicant must be able to follow scientific protocols and laboratory safety procedures.
• Must be able to work successfully as part of a team in a collaborative and dynamic laboratory environment.

Preferred Schedule:
Monday through Friday 8:00-5:00 and hours as needed

Position Requirements:

Appropriate education and/or experience may be substituted on equivalent basis

Minimum Required Education:               Bachelor’s degree

Minimum Required Experience:              1 year related experience required in the area of Cellular or Molecular Biology

Perferred experience: 2 or more years’ experience preferred. Hands-on laboratory experience, with RNA/DNA handling, tissue culture, Western blotting and qPCR experience

Certification:                                          None required at time of hire. 

MCW as an Equal Opportunity Employer and Commitment to Non-Discrimination
The Medical College of Wisconsin (MCW) is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to fostering a diverse community of outstanding faculty, staff, and students, as well as ensuring equal educational opportunity, employment, and access to services, programs, and activities, without regard to an individual's race, color, national origin, religion, age, disability, sex, gender identity/expression, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy, predisposing genetic characteristic, or military status. Employees, students, applicants or other members of the MCW community (including but not limited to vendors, visitors, and guests) may not be subjected to harassment that is prohibited by law or treated adversely or retaliated against based upon a protected characteristic.

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