Lab Research Analyst II - Dermatology

Duke University - Durham, NC

Full-time - Mid Level

Durham, NC

5,001-10,000 employees

Educational Services

About the position

The Lab Research Analyst II position in the Department of Dermatology at Duke University School of Medicine is a pivotal role focused on conducting fundamental research on the microbiome's role in human health and its therapeutic applications. This position is situated in the newly established lab of Dr. Julia Oh, where the successful candidate will engage in a variety of research activities aimed at understanding microbial interactions and their effects on host health. The role requires a strong foundation in laboratory techniques and a commitment to scientific excellence, as the analyst will be responsible for executing nucleic acid extractions from diverse sample sources, ensuring the production of high-quality DNA and RNA samples for advanced genomic analysis. In addition to sample preparation, the Lab Research Analyst II will prepare libraries for genomic sequencing, ensuring accuracy and reliability in all downstream applications. The position also involves maintaining and operating laboratory equipment while adhering to safety and quality standards. Collaboration is key in this role, as the analyst will work with cross-functional teams to design and implement research protocols, document experimental procedures and results, and contribute to scientific publications and presentations. Furthermore, the analyst will lead and assist in the development and optimization of new experimental techniques and methodologies, and will have the opportunity to train and supervise junior staff and students on laboratory procedures and best practices. This position is ideal for individuals who are passionate about research and eager to contribute to the advancement of knowledge in the field of dermatology and microbiome studies. The successful candidate will be part of a vibrant academic community that values collaboration, innovation, and diversity, and will play a crucial role in translating fundamental scientific discoveries into practical applications that improve human health.

Responsibilities

• Conduct fundamental research on the microbiome's role in human health and its potential for therapeutic applications.
• Execute nucleic acid extractions from a diverse range of sample sources, consistently producing high-quality DNA/RNA samples for advanced genomic analysis.
• Prepare libraries for genomic sequencing, ensuring accuracy and reliability in downstream applications.
• Utilize experimental approaches to investigate microbial interactions and their effects on host health.
• Maintain and operate laboratory equipment, ensuring adherence to safety and quality standards.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to design and implement research protocols.
• Document experimental procedures and results, contributing to scientific publications and presentations.
• Lead and assist in the development and optimization of new experimental techniques and methodologies.
• Train and supervise junior staff and students on laboratory procedures and best practices.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in botany, biology, zoology, psychology, or other directly related scientific field.
• Four years of research experience, or a related master's degree or an equivalent combination of relevant education and/or experience may offset required years of experience on a 1:1 basis.