Research Asst 2, Pediatric Neurology

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Organization:

Pediatrics Chair Department

Job Summary:

The Neul lab is seeking a motivated research assistant to perform a variety of research tasks, ranging from mouse colony maintenance, animal behavior and encephalography (EEG), molecular biology, and cell culture work. The Neul lab research is translational in focus and uses disease models of neurodevelopmental disorders, with a specific focus on Rett syndrome. The overall goal of the lab is to discover pathogenic mechanisms, identify biomarkers of disease progression and reversal, and develop novel therapies for these disorders.

A successful candidate will be able to provide, under direct supervision, support for specified research projects; collect, assess, and communicate data/results. Assist in general laboratory operation and inventory.

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Important technical skills:

· Histology and microscopy

· PCR and general molecular biology techniques

· Cell culture techniques

· Animal surgery, dissection, and tissue collection

· Mouse colony maintenance

· Mouse handling

· Mouse behavior and physiological assessments (breathing, heart rate, etc)

· Mouse neurophysiology (EEG) including evoke potentials

1. Under moderate supervision, conduct and evaluate experiments and assays

• 1a. Understand and follow experimental protocols (may include animal handling, tissue culture, cell culture, western blotting, QRT-PCR and plate reader assays, mouse husbandry, etc.)
• 1b. Record, compile, interpret, and communicate data/results
• 1c. Follow University safety protocols (may include use of combustibles, radioactivity, toxic material, and/or carcinogens)
• 1d. Perform calculations involving molarity, % solutions, and serial dilutions Oversee and conduct ongoing longitudinal mouse experiments

2. Prepare, operate and troubleshoot equipment in experimental procedures

• 2a. Read and follow all equipment manuals
• 2b. Maintain and repair equipment according to manufacturer and University guidelines

3. Ensure laboratory is prepared for experiments

• 3a. Manage the Neul lab mouse colony, keep close track of total cage numbers Make sure correct breeding are occurring for ongoing experiments
• 3b. Order and receive supplies
• 3c. Maintain lab in a safe manner, following all regulatory requirements

4. Assist PI in modifying protocols/Demonstrate an understanding of acceptable procedures and techniques

• 4a. Recognize problems and suggest solutions
• 4b. Assist in modifications as directed

5. Provide appropriate written documentation of experiments

• 5a. Prepare preliminary research progress reports
• 5b. Summarize test results appropriately

Our Academic Enterprise is one of the nation’s longest serving and most prestigious academic medical centers. Through its historic bond with Vanderbilt University and integral role in the School of Medicine, Vanderbilt Health cultivates distinguished research and educational programs to advance a clinical enterprise that provides compassionate and personalized care and support for millions of patients and family members each year.

World-leading academic departments and comprehensive centers of excellence pursue scientific discoveries and transformational educational and clinical advances across the entire spectrum of health and disease.

Aligning with Vanderbilt Health’s Strategic Directions, the Office of Research provides shared research <