Summary

The lab is looking for a Research technician to join Dr. Rodriguez laboratory in Department of Medicine who will play a critical role in managing the laboratory and performing molecular genetics experiments as part of a NIH funded project. The overall research goal is to decipher the role of microRNAs in stem cells in the lung and learn how they differentiate during lung injury and contribute to disease.  The primary purpose of this position is to perform phenotypic experiments using cutting edge genetically engineered mice models. This would involve working with mice and gaining IACUC accreditation and carrying experiments collaboratively with Postdocs/graduate students in the lab. The secondary purpose is to manage the laboratory upkeep, and equipment, samples, and reagents. Successful applicants should be highly-motivated, responsible, well organized, and technically capable. Candidates looking for 1-2 years of research experience and who would like to publish papers and enhance their c.v. prior to graduate school or medical school are welcome.  Also, this is also an excellent opportunity to gain future job promotions in the laboratory depending on ambition and creativity.

For more information: https://www.bcm.edu/people-search/antony-rodriguez-29556

Job Duties

• Prepares human and mouse samples for molecular experiments.
• Performs 3D organoid cell culture experiments. Propagation of epithelial stem cells, and chemical treatments.
• Works with genetically engineered mice, general breeding, genotyping and drug treatments.
• Conducts tissue sectioning, staining, imaging.
• Works on microtome and Cryostat and antibody staining, confocal imaging.
• Learns to operate a confocal microscope.
• Works on physiological pulmonary recordings from genetically engineered mice.
• Works on PCR, qPCR, DNA, RNA isolation and Quality Control.
• Conducts flow cytometry staining and cell sorting.
• Records, evaluates and analyzes data in accordance with a notebook and excel spreadsheets as necessary.
• Assists with the maintenance of laboratory equipment and the overall organization of the lab.
• Maintains records of samples received, data produced and their location.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a Basic Science or related field. Four years of related experience may substitute for degree requirement.
• No experience required.

Preferred Qualifications

• At least one year of full-time work in a molecular biology lab and familiarity with standard molecular biology techniques (PCR, agarose gel electrophoresis, SDS-PAGE, Western, blot, etc).
• One year of experience with mouse colony maintenance, husbandry, and PCR-based genotyping.
• Has taken education courses on molecular biology and biochemistry.
• Has the knowledge and ability to make solutions and calculate molarities and concentrations.
• Has long-term interest in science and ambition for future growth.
• Proficiency with the Microsoft office suite (excel, word, powerpoint) and computers in general are essential.
• Good interpersonal skills.
• Strong work ethic.
• Principles in the understanding of expectations, self-motivation and diligence in providing results. Be reliable and responsible to understand the role of this position. T
• Thinking outside the Box mentality.
• Team player and coordinates well with guidance from the research lab members and principal investigator.