Research Assistant-Molecular Otolaryngology and Renal Research Laboratories
University of Iowa

The Molecular Otolaryngology and Renal Research Laboratories, within the Department of Otolaryngology, is seeking a Research Assistant (RA). The lab utilizes molecular biology techniques, including PCR, sanger sequencing, allele specific PCR, multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification (MLPA), next-generation sequencing (NGS) and targeted genomic massively parallel sequencing for diagnostic testing of genetic hearing loss and rare complement-mediated renal disease. In this role, the RA will perform components of clinical diagnostic division workflows according to established laboratory procedures and work to maintain and improve the clinical testing environment, capabilities, and quality of data in the laboratory. The scheduled work hours will be Monday-Friday 8:00am-5:00pm.

Position Responsibilities:

• Perform high complexity testing on clinical biological specimens such as blood, saliva, and DNA.

• Able to properly manage time based on established priorities.

• Perform appropriate documentation and maintain accurate and legible records.

• Perform routine quality control, maintenance, calibration, and assist in troubleshooting of laboratory instruments.

• Evaluate quality control results and initiate corrective action when QC metrics are not acceptable.

• Maintain inventory and orders supplies as needed.

• Perform a variety of molecular biology procedures that may include:

• DNA extraction

• Processing DNA for applications including PCR and next generation sequencing (NGS)

• Begin and ensure proper execution of analytic pipelines for both Sanger and NGS clinical tests.

• Accept and apply feedback in a positive, constructive manner.

• Assist in a positive and professional manner with bench training for other laboratory colleagues within the section.

• Participate in lab section meetings with others to discuss quality testing, workflow, efficiency strategies, problematic areas, and laboratory improvement.

• Maintain effective working relationships with faculty, staff, students, and the public.

• Ability to work with a variety of individuals and groups in a constructive and civil manner while appreciating the unique contribution of individuals from varied cultures, nationalities, genders, ages, etc.

• Ability to utilize existing resources and learning to achieve or exceed desired outcomes of current and future organizational goals/needs. Able to demonstrate ethical behavior in diverse situations while producing results.

• Ability to meet or exceed customer service needs and expectations and provide excellent service in a direct or indirect manner. Ability to effectively transmit and interpret information through appropriate communication with internal and external customers.

About the Molecular Otolaryngology and Renal Research Laboratories (MORL)

The Molecular Otolaryngology & Renal Research Laboratories are committed to excellence in providing comprehensive services in the diagnosis of genetic hearing loss and rare complement-mediated renal disease. MORL's multidisciplinary team is comprised of board-certified physicians, bioinformaticians, a genetic counselor, and scientists. The clinical division team provides patients and families with non-syndromic hearing loss the most accurate and comprehensive genetic testing available, as well as genetic and functional testing for rare complement-mediate renal diseases.

Education Requirements:

• A bachelor's degree or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Preference: Microbiology, Biology, Genetics or Similar

Experience Requirements:

• 2-5 years of full-time equivalent experience with project coordination including time management, decision making, and self-direction in biology, chemistry, or a similar discipline.

• Excellent organizational, interpersonal, and communication (both verbal and written) skills.

• Demonstrated experience with molecular biology techniques including DNA extraction and quantification, PCR and gel electrophoresis.

• Willingness to learn relevant lab protocols under supervision of other staff.

• Proficiency in computer software applications, including Microsoft Office Suite.

• Ability to analyze information and situations, prioritize tasks, develop solutions to challenges.

• Ability to use good judgment while working independently and in a team setting.

Desired Qualifications:

• 2-5 years of demonstrated experience working in either a clinical laboratory and/or a molecular research laboratory.

• Demonstrated experience with DNA extraction using established protocols.

• Experience developing primers, amplimer validation and protocol development.

• Experience preparing solutions and purchasing supplies.

• Knowledge of Sanger Sequencing and/or next generation sequencing (NGS) technologies.

• Understanding of clinical testing conduct as outlined in a standard operating procedure.

• Experience managing large data sets and maintaining highly organized and detailed data records.

• Demonstrated ability to resolve issues related workflow changes and challenges.

Position and Application Details

Successful candidates will be subject to a criminal background check and education/credential verification. Successful candidates will be required to self-disclose any conviction history and will be subject to a criminal background check. Up to 5 professional references will be requested at a later step in the recruitment process.

In order to be considered for an interview, applicants must upload the following documents and mark them as a "Relevant File" to the submission:

• Resume
• Cover Letter

Job openings are posted for a minimum of 14 calendar days and may be removed from posting and filled any time after the original posting period has ended.

For additional questions, please contact Lydia Messer at lydia-messer@uiowa.edu

Benefits Highlights

• Fringe benefit package including paid vacation; sick leave; health, dental, life and disability insurance options; and generous employer contributions into retirement plans
• The University of Iowa offers a generous benefits package, including paid vacation and paid sick leave. Complete information regarding the full benefits package may be viewed at: Benefits | University Human Resources - The University of Iowa (uiowa.edu)

Additional Information

• Classification Title: Research Assistant
• Appointment Type: Professional and Scientific
• Schedule: Full-time
• Work Modality Options: On Campus

Compensation

• Pay Level: 3A
• Starting Salary Minimum: 41,541.00

Contact Information

• Organization: Healthcare
• Contact Name: Lydia Messer
• Contact Email: lydia-messer@uiowa.edu

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