Life Sciences Research Assistant I

Pavir - Palo Alto, CA

Full-time - Entry Level

Palo Alto, CA

101-250 employees

Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services

About the position

The Research Assistant I position at Palo Alto Veterans Institute for Research (PAVIR) is a full-time role focused on laboratory and animal facility work. The primary responsibilities include conducting experiments, collaborating with senior scientists and postdoctoral fellows, and contributing to various aspects of ongoing research projects. The role requires a strong commitment to research protocols and the ability to work independently while maintaining detailed records of experiments.

Responsibilities

• Assist in obtaining human clinical samples from Stanford or VA OR and perform laboratory procedures to process and store human specimens obtained
• Maintain biorepository systems
• Maintain and perform experiments with cells in tissue culture
• Independently conduct laboratory experiments and interpretation of research data, and maintain detailed records of experiments and outcomes
• Assist in performing animal (rodent) studies on a regular basis in collaboration with the senior scientists
• Document experimental methods and procedures, and ability to learn new knowledge related to projects
• Participate in weekly group meetings and contribute to preparing written documents as needed
• Help to prepare presentations and written articles for publication
• Occasional travel to laboratory at Stanford
• Assist with general laboratory maintenance as needed in collaboration with the lab manager
• Other tasks as needed

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience required
• Valid Driver License
• Experience with cell culture and ability to learn research skills
• Comfortable with rodent handling
• General understanding of scientific principles
• Demonstrated ability to apply knowledge and skills to achieve the desired outcomes
• Demonstrated ability to apply theoretical knowledge of science principles to handle research work
• Ability to maintain detailed records of experiments and outcomes
• Basic computer skills and ability to learn and master new applications
• Ability to work under deadlines with general guidance
• Excellent organizational skills and demonstrated ability on following instructions
• Interested in biology/medicine and extremely self-motivated
• Collaborative, flexible and a strong team player
• Willingness to work with mice
• Must be able to logically and effectively structure tasks and set priorities
• Ability to identify potential problems and troubleshoot solutions

Nice-to-haves

• 1-2 year of related work experience in a lab setting, including experience with animal handling/animal experimentation in a research setting

Benefits

• Comprehensive health insurance
• Vision insurance
• Dental insurance
• 14 paid holidays
• Paid vacation time
• Sick pay
• 401(k) with a fully vested 6% company match
• 3% profit share
• Wellness program
• Commuter benefits
• Professional development training
• Life insurance
• Short-term disability insurance
• Long-term disability insurance