The Kumar Lab, within the Division of Pediatric Pulmonary Medicine, is seeking a Life Science Research Professional to assist on a project studying the cellular and molecular mechanisms that control the development, maintenance, and repair of the pulmonary blood vessels of the mouse, with the long-term goal of understanding and treating pulmonary vascular disease. The Kumar laboratory’s long-term goals are to identify the cells, cell behaviors, and interactions that give rise to pulmonary vascular disease, delineate the molecular pathways that control them, and determine how they can be manipulated to prevent or reverse disease.
The selected candidate will employ cutting-edge genetic and single-cell approaches, including single-cell RNA-sequencing and spatial transcriptomics in mouse and human patient tissues, high-resolution deep tissue imaging, in vivo lineage tracing, and pharmacologic manipulation in mice to discover how cell patterns, behaviors, interactions, and functions are altered in pulmonary disease.
The LSRP will perform experiments under the supervision of the PI. The job requires someone who is independent and trustworthy, capable of maintaining their own schedule to achieve hours outlined in posting. The ideal candidate will be comfortable working on several ongoing projects simultaneously with multiple lab members, highlighting the need for meticulous note taking, time management, and excellent communication skills. S/he may be expected to troubleshoot existing protocols and develop novel protocols and procedures. The LSRP will be responsible for managing the lab’s mouse colony. The position will also entail some lab support tasks such as ordering and maintaining lab supplies and equipment, maintaining lab records, and adhering to safety regulations. The candidate will be mentored by faculty and will be encouraged to contribute to publications, present work at meetings, participate in weekly lab meetings; and motivated candidates will have the opportunity to lead projects.
Duties include:
- Routine maintenance of the lab’s mouse colony. This means working with the PI and other researchers to determine needed genotypes for experiments, designing the genetic crosses to generate those animals, weaning and genotyping cages in a timely and accurate manner, and maintaining detailed searchable records.
- Will be expected to assist with regulatory aspects of animal research, including IRB submissions or APLAC protocols.
- Plan approach to experiments in support of research projects in lab based on knowledge of scientific theory.
- Independently conduct experiments; maintain detailed records of experiments, archiving of data and tissue specimens, and outcomes.
- Interpret and perform analyses of experiment results; offer suggestions regarding modifications to procedures and protocols in collaboration with senior researcher and lab members.
- Review literature on an ongoing basis to remain current with new procedures and apply learnings to related research.
- Contribute to publication of findings as needed. Participate in the preparation of written documents, including procedures, presentations, and proposals.
- Help with general lab maintenance as needed; maintain lab stocks, manage chemical inventory and safety records, and provide general lab support as needed.
- Assist with orientation and training of new staff or students on lab procedures or techniques.
*- Other duties may also be assigned
~ All members of the Department of Pediatrics are engaged in continuous learning and improvement to foster a culture where diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice are central to all aspects of our work. The Department collectively and publicly commits to continuously promoting anti-racism and equity through its policies, programs, and practices at all levels. ~
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE (REQUIRED):
Bachelor's degree in related scientific field.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (REQUIRED):
- General understanding of scientific principles. Demonstrated performance to use knowledge and skills when needed.
- Demonstrated ability to apply theoretical knowledge of science principals to problem solve work.
- Ability to maintain detailed records of experiments and outcomes.
- General computer skills and ability to quickly learn and master computer programs, databases, and scientific applications.
- Ability to work under deadlines with general guidance.
- Excellent organizational skills and demonstrated ability to accurately complete detailed work.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS*:
- Frequently stand, walk, twist, bend, stoop, squat, grasp lightly, use fine manipulation, grasp forcefully, perform desk-based computer tasks, use telephone, write by hand, lift, carry, push and pull objects weighing over 40 pounds.
- Occasionally sit, kneel, crawl, reach and work above shoulders, sort and file paperwork or parts.
- Rarely climb, scrub, sweep, mop, chop and mix or operate hand and foot controls.
- Must have correctible vision to perform duties of the job.
- Ability to bend, squat, kneel, stand, reach above shoulder level, and move on hard surfaces for up to eight hours.
- Ability to lift heavy objects weighing up to 50 pounds.
- Ability to work in a dusty, dirty, and odorous environment.
- Position may require repetitive motion.
*- Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodation to any employee with a disability who requires accommodation to perform the essential functions of his or her job.
WORKING CONDITIONS:
- May require working in close proximity to blood borne pathogens.
- May require work in an environment where animals are used for teaching and research.
- Position may at times require the employee to work with or be in areas where hazardous materials and/or infectious diseases are present.
- Employee must perform tasks that require the use of personal protective equipment, such as safety glasses and shoes, protective clothing and gloves, and possibly a respirator.
- May require extended or unusual work hours based on research requirements and business needs.
