2016-02-24

Job Title:

Research Associate 1. Miami Project to Cure Paralysis

Pay Grade:

r4

Pay Band Min / Max:

$32,900.00  –  $59,100.00

Position Number:

P100012056

Department / Hospital:

Miami Project Sci 27 -STA

The University of Miami is considered among the top tier institutions of higher education in the U.S. for its academic excellence, superior medical care, and cutting-edge research. At the U, we are committed to attracting a talented workforce to support our common purpose of transforming lives through teaching, research, and service. Through our values of Diversity, Integrity, Responsibility, Excellence, Compassion, Creativity and Teamwork (DIRECCT) we strive to create an environment where everyone contributes in making UM a great place to work. We are one of the largest private employers in Miami-Dade County; home to more than 13,400 faculty and staff from all over the world.

Description

The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis has an exciting opportunity for a Research Associate 1. The Research Associate is the entry-level research professional position. Appointees will support research activities at the University.

The Research Associate will understand and interpret research protocols and procedures.

The Research Associate will work under the direction of a principal investigator, program director, or designee of the principal investigator or program director, such as a Sr. Research Associate or above.

Promotion to higher levels is not automatic as a result of longevity in position. Rather, promotion requires increased duties and responsibilities, a recommendation by the appointing department, and approval by the appropriate Human Resources Office.

Duties and Responsibilities

Appointees will contribute to basic and applied research activities, participate in the publication of significant results, and advance their expertise through education, training and/or research experience.

Appointees are not expected to write extramural proposals nor independently to gain such support. Perform experiments to study peripheral nerve Schwann cells in their dual role of forming the myelin sheath and promoting axon regeneration after injury.

A special interest is placed in the study of human Schwann cells using RNA-seq technologies. This projects includes performing in vitro experiments using adult nerve-derived Schwann cells. The focus of these experiments is to gain a better understanding of the phenotypic and functional characteristics of naïve and expanded human Schwann cell populations by means of next generation RNA sequening. Analysis of RNA-seq data will be performed in collaboration with the laboratory of Dr. Gaofeng Wang (Associate Professor, Human Genomics Institute, UM).

To perform standard techniques in cell biology (cell culture of primary cells, cell purification and isolation, immunocytochemical detection of target proteins/lipids, and analysis by conventional fluorescence, confocal and transmission electron microscopy), molecular biology (DNA preparations) and biochemistry (protein assays, electrophoresis, western blots, ELISAs, enzymatic assays). Most experiments performed rely on cellular and pharmacological approaches, with the exception of RNA-seq bioinformatics analysis. Optimization and standardization of experimental protocols may be required.

To design, perform and analyze experiments and contribute to the preparation of manuscripts for publication after careful scrutiny of the results.

To keep a detailed and accurate record of all research activities performed and materials used. This record should be intelligible and complete to allow the sharing of resources and data with other colleagues and the PI. This record should be made available to the PI at all times or upon request.

To assist in the collection of preliminary data for grant applications by the PI and perform literature searches, phone calls, and networking to obtain information, materials, reagents, etc. relevant to the ongoing research activities.

To attend and participate in regular meetings with supervisor to plan and discuss ongoing experimental work.

To attend and present findings at internal laboratory meetings and contribute to poster presentations at national scientific meetings.

To contribute to laboratory management, ordering of materials and associated administrative tasks.

Other tasks as assigned. This list of duties and responsibilities is not intended, nor should it be construed to be, all-inclusive and may be expanded to include other duties or responsibilities as necessary.

Requirements

The minimum requirements are a Bachelor’s Degree in biological sciences of related disciplines (Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Bioengineering, Pharmacology, etc.). Some research experience gained during education/training or in employment in a research position is preferable but not required. English verbal/written communication skills are necessary. Strong interpersonal communication skills. Basic computer skills (Powerpoint, MS-Word, MS-Excel, Photoshop). Any appropriate combination of relevant education, experience and/or certifications may be considered.

About University of Miami Health System

UHealth-University of Miami Health System, South Florida’s only university-based health system, provides leading-edge patient care powered by the ground breaking research and medical education at the Miller School of Medicine. As an academic medical center, we are proud to serve South Florida, Latin America and the Caribbean. Our physicians represent more than 100 specialties and subspecialties, and have more than one million patient encounters each year. Our tradition of excellence has earned worldwide recognition for outstanding teaching, research and patient care. We’re the challenge you’ve been looking for.The University of Miami offers competitive salaries and a comprehensive benefits package including medical and dental benefits, tuition remission,vacation, paid holidays and much more. The University of Miami is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. Come join us!

(learn more…)

Show more