Gnotobiotic Specialist (Life Science Research Professional 2)

$81,130 - $94,895/Yr

Stanford University - Palo Alto, CA

Full-time - Mid Level

Palo Alto, CA

Educational Services

About the position

The Gnotobiotic Specialist (Life Science Research Professional 2) at Stanford University's School of Medicine will oversee germ-free/gnotobiotic mouse facilities and conduct related experiments. This role is crucial for advancing research on gut microbiota and its implications for human health. The specialist will collaborate closely with lab members, design experiments, and ensure the proper maintenance of gnotobiotic mouse husbandry.

Responsibilities

• Conduct experiments that require the use of germ-free mice.
• Make recommendations on experimental design and/or research direction to lab members.
• Independently conduct complex experiments to gather data for major research projects, focusing on gnotobiotic mouse experiments.
• Interpret and analyze results, modifying existing procedures and protocols as necessary.
• Develop new research protocols when appropriate protocols are not described in the literature.
• Perform ongoing literature reviews to stay current with new procedures and related research.
• Supervise staff or students, providing oversight and direction on gnotobiotic techniques.
• Serve as a technical resource for other research staff.
• Carry out all activities required for germ-free and gnotobiotic mouse husbandry and facility maintenance.
• Monitor gnotobiotic mice for changes in appearance and behavior, perform cage changes, and maintain accurate records.
• Set up and maintain breeding strategies to achieve research goals.
• Oversee supplies under the supervision of the principal investigator and Gnotobiotics Director.
• Work with the health and safety department to ensure compliance with regulations.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in a related scientific field.
• Two years of relevant work experience.
• Animal husbandry experience.
• Comfortable handling mice.
• Comprehensive understanding of scientific principles.
• General computer skills and ability to learn scientific applications quickly.
• Strong analytical skills and excellent judgment.
• Ability to maintain detailed records of experiments and outcomes.
• Ability to work under deadlines with general guidance.
• Excellent organizational skills.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience performing mouse husbandry using gnotobiotic isolators.
• Experience with mouse colony maintenance.
• Basic mouse handling and breeding skills, including oral gavage and blood draw.
• Basic microbial culture methods.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health insurance coverage.
• Retirement savings plan options.
• Paid holidays and vacation time.
• Professional development opportunities.