CO Research Assistant

The Department of Radiology is seeking a CO Research Assistant. Under the direct supervision of the Principal Investigator(s), this role will contribute to the mechanistic understanding of neurodegenerative diseases, particularly, Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD). Responsible for the organization, backup, maintenance and accuracy of all preclinical research data in a timely and ongoing manner. Run reports and analyze data to generate specific study findings. The Research Assistant will perform basic laboratory techniques in processing of animal blood sample, cell culture, molecular biology procedures, ordering, and equipment troubleshooting. Manage records of experiments. Assists in project planning, and ensures that pre-established work scope, IACUC-approved study protocol, and regulatory requirements are followed. Recruits and coordinates research subjects, as appropriate. Assists with writing protocols, papers/publications, and study results.

Specific Duties & Responsibilities

• Implements and maintains data collection and analysis systems in support of research protocol, including the management of data, paper files, and electronic databases.
• Oversees day-to-day operation of research and data collection activities in compliance with the Institutional animal care and use committee (IACUC) guidelines and protocols
• Oversees day-to-day activities in carrying out research protocols, as appropriate to the position; may perform aspects of research protocol, as required, in accordance with specified program objectives.
• Develops and maintains records of research activities, and prepares periodic and ad hoc reports, as required by investigators and/or regulatory bodies.
• Acts as the primary administrative point of contact for PI’s, postdocs, research or administrative staff.
• Maintains good working knowledge of all assigned protocols and reporting requirements.
• Transmits and distributes protocol information.
• Responsible for submission, verification, and maintenance of protocol specific information on the Research Protocol Library, as appropriate.
• Maintains regulatory binder for each assigned protocol.
• With assistance, prepares and submits annual renewal requests, amendments and adverse event reports with clinical input according to IACUC and Sponsor requirements.
• Adheres to all protocol requirements to ensure the validity of the preclinical research data.
• Assists the PI in defining information and plans required to accomplish goals of studies.
• Design and create protocol specific data collection forms.
• Verifies animal eligibility for studies by comparing animal background check (e.g., hematocrit, body weight, vascular stenosis) with protocol requirements.
• Keeps a traceable record of animal identification and sends samples for genotyping (if applicable).
• Ensures accuracy and timeliness of data so that information may be used to promote the project progression.
• Maintains animal accommodation and monitors the animal loss due to procedure (e.g., loss during surgeries) and non-procedure (e.g., natural death) reasons.
• Document stages and changes of medication (if in a treatment study) or condition during course of study.
• Assists in the collection of samples and has detailed knowledge of sample requirements.
• Transports and processes study samples, as assigned.
• Operates basic laboratory equipment; complies with biohazard safety standards through proper handling of hazardous chemical and biological agents; uses sterile techniques to avoid contamination; uses universal safety precautions to protect self and co-workers from biohazardous materials; monitors inventory of supplies required for studies.
• Meets regularly with Principal Investigator to review data accuracy and overall study progress.
• Participates in all mandatory meetings to develop increasing knowledge of assigned duties.
• Assist with the writing and editing of manuscripts.
• Prepares reports on animals or the study as required by the principal investigators and/or external agencies.
• Enters animal demographic and data into institutional database as required.
• Responds in a timely manner to special projects or queries related to the data.
• Corrects errors in database when necessary.
• Prepares for and participates in monitoring and audits of studies.
• Completes minimum requirement for continuing educational units.
• Has working knowledge of and complies with the institutional practices, guidelines, and regulations.
• Performs miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.

• Bachelor's Degree in related discipline.
• Some related experience. 
• Additional related expe