Life Sciences Research Associate - Immune System and Cell Trafficking

Location

Palo Alto, CA | United States

Job description

Palo Alto Veterans Institute for Research (PAVIR) supports the nation's second largest research program conducted among the VA Hospitals and is looking for a full-time Life Sciences Research Associate. This position will carry out physiological, cell biological, molecular, and genetic studies of the development, function, and regulation of the immune system, and the mechanisms of cell trafficking. The incumbent will provide knowledge, assistance and training in molecular biology and immunologic techniques and related data analysis methods, perform flow cytometry, microscopic imaging and related assays of immune tissues and cell functions, perform cell culture studies and studies in small animals (rodents), process human blood and tissues and assist in general lab functions.

BENEFITS

PAVIR offers generous benefits , including comprehensive health insurance, vision, dental, 14 paid holidays , paid vacation time, sick pay, a 401(k) with a fully vested 6% company match and 3% profit share , a wellness program, commuter benefits, and professional development training. Plus, we pay for life, short-term disability, and long-term disability insurance.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

• Perform in vivo rodent experiments independently and in collaboration with fellows and students; Independently research, implement, and troubleshoot rodent procedures; Generate new strains of mice by crossing Cre/Lox animals, perform genotyping (by PCR and/or plasma ELISA); Train other personnel in the lab in various in vivo techniques
• Perform advanced cell biological and immunological techniques independently and in collaboration with fellows and students; Independently research, implement, and troubleshoot molecular, cell biological and related techniques; Train other personnel in the lab in various molecular and cell biology techniques;
• Perform and analyze studies of immune and inflamed tissues using flow cytometry
• Compile and analyze data using advanced knowledge of science and mathematical principals;
• Assist with the design and conduct experiments to achieve defined goals; Introduce and troubleshoot diverse techniques for the lab, when needed by investigators;
• Assist with laboratory maintenance and compliance with regulations; Maintain and supervise use of instrumentation (i.e. flow cytometer)
• Interact with contract research organization to design and monitor studies in support of lab goals
• Maintain accurate laboratory notes reflecting data acquired;
• Other assigned tasks.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Required: Degree: BA/BS degree (or equivalent experience);
• Work Experience: 3 years of related experience;
• Preferred: BA/BS, MA/MS, or PhD degree (or equivalent experience) in Immunology, Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, or a related field;
• Work Experience: 5 years of related experience;
• Strong knowledge of Immunological techniques;
• Experience in tissue culture;
• Experience in flow cytometry and analysis of cytometry data;
• Experience in conducting in vivo experiments using rodent disease models;
• Experience in PCR genotyping;
• Experience in ELISA;
• Ability to independently learn and implement new techniques;
• Strong knowledge of research lab requirements/procedures and scientific research methodology;
• Strong knowledge of research procedures and protocols gained through education or experience;
• Experience in a variety of research techniques/methods and follow-up data collection;
• Experience in protocol development and standardization;
• Ability to work independently and within a team context;
• Excellent interpersonal skills to assist, train, and support other research staff;
• Effective communication skills (written and verbal);
• Excellent organization skills and attention to detail;
• Proven technical and analytical skills;
• Ability to troubleshoot experiments and methods
• Knowledge and experience in lab safety procedures
• Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, and genetic and proteomic databases;
• Intermediate knowledge of math and statistics.

ABOUT PALO ALTO VETERANS INSTITUTE FOR RESEARCH (PAVIR)

PAVIR facilitates research and education activities conducted at the VA Palo Alto Health Care System. At PAVIR we work with more than 160 uniquely talented medical scientists. We recruit and retain talented employees who believe in making a difference in the lives of others through innovative health research.

READY TO JOIN OUR RESEARCH TEAM?

If you feel that you would be right for this job, please fill out our initial 3-minute, mobile-friendly application . We look forward to meeting you!

PAVIR is a nonprofit foundation affiliated with the Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System (VAPAHCS). As a condition of employment, all PAVIR employees are required to have an approved appointment with VAPAHCS and complete a background check before they can commence work.

PAVIR is pleased to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Minorities, Women, Veterans, and Individuals with a Disability are encouraged to apply. We welcome and encourage diversity in the workplace regardless of race, color, religion, age, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. If you need special assistance or an accommodation to apply for a posted position, please contact [email protected] - Human Resources department.

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Salary

$74k