Research Technician-Center for Molecular Therapeutics

SHIFT:

Day (United States of America)

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A Brief Overview

The Akizu lab is seeking a self-motivated and responsible stem cell technician to join a highly collaborative and enthusiastic team. The lab is part of the Raymond G. Perelman Center for Cellular and Molecular Therapeutics (CCMT) and the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania (UPenn) offers a wonderful opportunity to work in a collaborative, inspiring and fun environment. The CCMT fosters a multidisciplinary approach among researchers and scientists working to discover new gene and cell therapies in search of cures for debilitating and life threatening disorders.

The Akizu lab has a broad interest in uncovering mechanisms and treatments for childhood neurological disorders, including neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders. Approaches utilized to resolve scientific questions include pluripotent stem cell models, murine models, in utero cortical electroporation and neural engraftments, live cell and confocal imaging, proteomics and genetics technologies among others.

The successful candidate will possess excellent communication and organizational skills, including detailed recordkeeping and lab management skills, and the ability to contribute to method development and validation with accuracy, discretion and good judgment. General position requirements include, assisting in maintaining equipment and laboratory stock reagent and solutions, lab upkeep, genotyping and PCR, cell culture handling, molecular cloning and other general responsibilities in laboratory operation as assigned or directed.

Bachelor's Degree recently granted or soon to be received with a major in biology, chemistry, biochemistry or related field preferred and with at least two years of laboratory experience. Excellent communication and organizational skills are a must. Specific experience should include hands-on experience with human pluripotent stem cell culturing and neuronal differentiation, DNA/RNA extraction, molecular cloning. In addition, a degree of experience in DNA/RNA extraction, molecular cloning, protein extraction, western blotting, immunofluorescnece imaging and cytometry will be a plus. Self-motivation, and a keen interest in learning new techniques is a must!

What you will do

• Independently performs advanced, complex research procedures on experimental samples
• Formulates and performs complex lab experiments and analyzes/ reports the data, including interpretation of methodologies
• Independently performs tasks that require knowledge of advanced techniques and lab equipment
• Performs advanced calculations and maintains appropriate log and lab notebooks
• Plans and modifies research protocols and procedures with minimal direction from the principal investigator, supervisor or other designee
• Assists in development & troubleshooting of new techniques and ideas
• Prepares laboratory reagents, monitors and maintains laboratory inventory
• Supervises, trains and mentors junior and new staff members
• Determines staff work assignments, schedules and laboratory priorities as directed
• Presents & discusses work at weekly lab meetings and national symposia
• Attends courses, seminars, and lab meetings to expand knowledge of research and laboratory techniques
• Assists in writing of grants, journal articles, posters and oral presentations

Education Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree Required

Experience Qualifications

• At least three (3) years of classroom and directly relevant and progressive (increasingly complex/ advanced) lab experience Required
• Previous lead or supervisory experience in a resear