DESCRIPTION

Under supervision of the Research Program Officer and with work direction from the PI and senior lab members, incumbent will assist in research aimed at creating anti-pathogen effector and genetic drives systems to control dengue and other vector-borne diseases using a variety of standard biochemistry and molecular biology procedures.

In addition, incumbent is responsible for care and maintenance of fly and mosquito mutant lines; using a stereo microscope, performing routine fly and mosquito work (feeding colonies (preparing food and blood feeding, which requires handling and euthanizing mice), sorting flies, collecting flies, setting up crosses, transferring stocks, screening flies for mutant phenotypes, etc). Following genetic screens, the incumbent will assist senior laboratory staff with molecular biology procedures such as DNA isolation, recombination-based cDNA cloning, bacterial transformation and growth, PCR and Gibson assembly and with the microinjection of fly embryos.

Incumbent will also perform routine laboratory duties: order and maintain lab equipment, supplies, and records; maintain cleanliness of lab; prepare buffers, media, and solutions; and perform other general lab duties as needed.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Graduation from high school or a GED and two (2) years of laboratory experience OR two (2) years of college including courses in biochemistry, molecular biology, biophysics, basic genetics OR an equivalent combination of education and experience

• College level course or equivalent in general laboratory techniques and molecular techniques including the ability to prepare solutions and use a pH meter

• Laboratory experience with basic and general techniques in molecular biology including DNA and RNA preparation and extraction, molecular cloning, gel electrophoresis, PCR, etc.

• Demonstrated skill to use standard lab equipment such as centrifuge, microscope, balances, etc.

• Demonstrated skill to culture and handle Drosophila flies and mosquitoes.

• Experience with or willingness to learn mouse handling and euthanization techniques required to blood feed mosquitoes.

• Experience with basic microbiological and sterile techniques.

• Skill to follow multistep assays and procedures.

• Ability and organizational skills to keep accurate records of scientific data in well-organized lab notebook.

• Experience using MAC or PC, including Microsoft Office; willingness and ability to update and increase computer skills and knowledge as needed.

• Excellent oral and written communication skills. Good interpersonal communication skills including tact, diplomacy, and flexibility with students, staff, faculty, and visitors of various cultures and backgrounds.

• Knowledge of Material Safety Data Sheets, hazard communication and Injury and Illness Prevention Program. Knowledge of laboratory safety precautions including appropriate clothing and shoes, safe handling of chemicals, use of protective items such as gloves and goggles, etc. Knowledge of safety procedures using chemicals and radioactive materials.

• Knowledge of purchasing and reimbursement procedures. Skill in maintaining steady levels of lab supplies, maintaining purchasing records, and training others in purchasing procedures.

• Knowledge of humane methods of caring for lab animals such as rats and mice. Sensitivity to the needs of caged laboratory animals in compliance with AAALAC standards.

• Ability to maintain confidentiality in matters related to work.

• Demonstrated ability to learn new experimental methods and work independently or collaboratively with other lab members.

SPECIAL CONDITIONS

• Must be willing to work occasional overtime (early morning or weekend) based on needs of experiments.

• Must be able to work safely with lab chemicals, including analgesics and anesthetics.

• Must be able to handle, monitor and euthanize mice.

• Manual dexterity for fine dissection of insects.