Research Assistant - Institute for Vision Research (Stone Lab)

University of Iowa - Iowa City, IA

Full-time - Entry Level

Iowa City, IA

10,001+ employees

Educational Services

About the position

The University of Iowa Health Care, Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences - Institute for Vision Research, is seeking a dedicated Research Assistant to join the molecular biology research laboratory of Edwin Stone, MD, PhD. This full-time position is critical in conducting experiments, setting up and operating laboratory equipment, and meticulously recording and consolidating research data. The Research Assistant will play a vital role in isolating DNA from blood samples and maintaining a valuable human DNA collection, which is essential for ongoing research in the field of vision science. In this role, the Research Assistant will carry out genetic experiments utilizing PCR-based methodologies to identify new mutations in novel genes. The position requires performing bi-directional sequencing and evaluating and interpreting the resulting data. The successful candidate will also employ recombinant DNA techniques, including DNA and RNA purification, plasmid generation and isolation, and agarose gel electrophoresis. Data entry will be a significant part of the job, requiring proficiency in laboratory information management systems (LIMS) and Microsoft Excel. Additionally, the Research Assistant will assist in maintaining an organized inventory of chemicals and reagents, ensuring that the laboratory environment remains neat and orderly. An important aspect of the role includes instructing students and residents in laboratory procedures and techniques, thereby contributing to the educational mission of the Institute. The Research Assistant will also perform literature searches on topics specified by the laboratory director, supporting the research efforts with up-to-date information and findings.

Responsibilities

• Isolate DNA from blood samples and maintain a valuable human DNA collection.
• Carry out genetic experiments using PCR based methodologies to identify new mutations in novel genes.
• Perform bi-directional sequencing and evaluate and interpret data.
• Use recombinant DNA techniques, such as DNA and RNA purification, plasmid generation and isolation, and agarose gel electrophoresis.
• Enter lab data in a laboratory information management system (LIMS) and Excel.
• Assist in maintaining inventory of chemicals and reagents, keeping the premises neat and orderly.
• Instruct students and residents in laboratory procedures and techniques.
• Perform literature searches on topics specified by the director of the laboratory.

Requirements

• Requires practical or academic knowledge of basic molecular biology, generally associated with a Bachelor's degree or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Laboratory experience as part of a college curriculum and/or employment.
• Experience in isolation of RNA and DNA.
• Experience in DNA manipulation including cloning techniques, plasmid preparations, and/or fragment purification.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience in PCR based methodology.
• Familiarity with Macintosh computers, including Microsoft Word, Excel, and a laboratory information management system.