Research Assistant

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Prefer a degree in the Biological Sciences.
• He/she must have experience in handling small animals, genotyping with PCR analysis, and record keeping. The job requires someone who is meticulous and highly organized.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and aptitude for leadership of lab operations, for serving as an effective and professional liaison to other labs on campus and external organizations, providing succinct and knowledgeable presentations and updates on lab operations to the PI and lab members, at lab meetings.
• Proficiency in experimental techniques used by the lab, or ability to perform these techniques independently after a period of orientation: culturing neurons, running molecular assays (e.g. PCR, flow cytometry), rodent handling, transcardial perfusion, tissue histology, immunostaining, confocal microscopy, unbiased stereology, EEG recording and analysis, behavioral testing and other experiments.
• Computer experience with spreadsheet and word processing applications
• Willingness to learn new techniques and skills as the job demands.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE (REQUIRED):

Bachelor's degree in related scientific field.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (REQUIRED):

• General understanding of scientific principles. Demonstrated performance to use knowledge and skills when needed.
• Demonstrated ability to apply theoretical knowledge of science principals to problem solve work.
• Ability to maintain detailed records of experiments and outcomes.
• General computer skills and ability to quickly learn and master computer programs, databases, and scientific applications.
• Ability to work under deadlines with general guidance.
• Excellent organizational skills and demonstrated ability to accurately complete detailed work.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS*:

• This is an in person (on site) position. Given the nature of the lab job duties, remote work will be limited and requires explicit discussion with the PI.
• Frequently stand, walk, twist, bend, stoop, squat, grasp lightly, use fine manipulation, grasp forcefully, perform desk-based computer tasks, use telephone, write by hand, lift, carry, push and pull objects weighing over 40 pounds.
• Occasionally sit, kneel, crawl, reach and work above shoulders, sort and file paperwork or parts.
• Rarely climb, scrub, sweep, mop, chop and mix or operate hand and foot controls.
• Must have correctible vision to perform duties of the job.
• Ability to bend, squat, kneel, stand, reach above shoulder level, and move on hard surfaces for up to eight hours.
• Ability to lift heavy objects weighing up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to work in a dusty, dirty, and odorous environment.
• Position may require repetitive motion.

*- Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodation to any employee with a disability who requires accommodation to perform the essential functions of his or her job.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• May require working in close proximity to blood borne pathogens.
• Will require work in an environment where animals are used for teaching and research.
• Position may at times require the employee to work with or be in areas where hazardous materials and/or infectious diseases are present.
• Employee must perform tasks that require the use of personal protective equipment, such as safety glasses and shoes, protective clothing and gloves, and possibly a respirator.
• May occasionally require extended or unusual work hours based on research requirements and business needs.

WORK STANDARDS:

• Interpersonal Skills: Demonstrates the ability to work well with Stanford colleagues, learners at all levels including undergraduate students, and to serve as a professional and courteous ambassador to other labs on campus and to external organizations. Ability to serve as a lab leader in coordinating lab operations with excellent interpersonal skills.
• Promote Culture of Safety: Demonstrates commitment to personal responsibility and value for safety; communicates safety concerns; uses and promotes safe behaviors based on training and lessons learned.
• Subject to and expected to comply with all applicable University policies and procedures, including but not limited to the personnel policies and other policies found in the University’s Administrative Guide, http://adminguide.stanford.edu.

As an organization that receives federal funding, Stanford University has a COVID-19 vaccination requirement that will apply to all university employees, including those working remotely in the United States and applicable subcontractors. To learn more about COVID policies and guidelines for Stanford University Staff, please visit https://cardinalatwork.stanford.edu/working-stanford/covid-19/interim-policies/covid-19-surveillance-testing-policy