Research Associate II - Human Microbiome Research Institute

$44,221 - $75,171/Yr

Cedars-Sinai - Beverly Hills, CA

Full-time - Entry Level

Beverly Hills, CA

1,001-5,000 employees

Hospitals

About the position

Cedars-Sinai has established a new Human Microbiome Research Institute (HMRI) that aims to support investigators in studying the role of the microbiome in human health and disease, with key focus areas including Cancer, Metabolism, Early Life, GI & Liver, and Autoimmunity. The HMRI serves as an innovation hub and coordinating center for microbiome research, facilitating both human and animal studies conducted by Cedars-Sinai investigators and external collaborators. The overarching goal is to deepen our understanding of how microbes in and on our bodies contribute to the progression of various diseases. The Research Associate II (RA II) will play a crucial role in this research environment, responsible for executing a range of molecular, cellular, and live animal techniques for external projects submitted to the HMRI. This includes tasks such as anaerobic bacterial cultivation, microbial DNA/RNA extraction, library preparation for 16S and metagenomic sequencing, bacterial genetics, and conducting gnotobiotic animal experiments. Candidates should possess a strong background in microbiology and/or microbiome science, as they will be expected to perform PCR and qRT-PCR, ELISAs, and DNA and RNA extractions. Additionally, the RA II may have opportunities to learn advanced techniques such as flow cytometry, FACS sorting, sample preparation for single-cell and single-nuclei sequencing, and advanced microscopy techniques. The position requires meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to maintaining high standards of laboratory practice, including keeping accurate records of experiments and results, troubleshooting unexpected outcomes, and coordinating the use of lab equipment. The RA II will also be responsible for orienting lower-level research associates and undergraduate student researchers in day-to-day lab operations and routine procedures, thereby contributing to the development of the next generation of researchers in the field.

Responsibilities

• Perform a variety of increasingly sophisticated microbiome experimental protocols and procedures.
• Assist in the design of new protocols and techniques.
• Keep accurate and detailed records of experiments and results, and assist in identifying and troubleshooting unexpected results.
• Maintain lab equipment and related records and may coordinate the use of lab equipment.
• Assist in the operation of specialized equipment, as required by the area of research.
• Orient research laboratory assistants or lower-level research associates and undergraduate student researchers on day-to-day lab operations and routine procedures.
• Cultivate live bacteria from human and animal tissues, create bacterial stocks, and revive bacteria as needed.
• Maintain the bacterial culture collection and conduct in-vitro co-culture experiments.
• Perform animal experiments in gnotobiotic mice, including gavage of bacteria and bacterial communities.
• Work with highly sterile technique, with exquisite attention to detail in the extraction of DNA for 16S and metagenomics.
• Carry out sequencing library preparations.
• Conduct PCR and qRT-PCR assays.
• Perform ELISAs.
• Learn and acquire additional skills such as flow cytometry, FACS sorting, sample preparation for single-cell and single-nuclei sequencing, and advanced microscopy.

Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree in a Science related field is required.
• At least one (1) year of research laboratory experience in microbiology or microbiome-related sciences is required; three (3) years is highly desired.
• Excellent organization and problem-solving skills, detail-oriented, and self-motivated with the ability to multitask.
• Ability to work closely and effectively within a team environment, with the ability to work well independently on specified projects.
• Strong interpersonal skills for interaction with peers and other scientists in the research team as well as with the administrative team within the Center.