DRI

Professional Research Assistant Laboratory Technician

Location

Aurora, CO

Type

Full Time

Position: Professional Research Assistant (PRA) - Laboratory Technician
Classification​: Full time/Exempt
Salary Range: $45,000-60,000
Based on qualifications and experience
Reports to: Principal Investigator

 Nature of Work

The Walter Lab is seeking a full-time Research Assistant who will conduct molecular assays for tuberculosis (TB) treatment research.  This individual will execute complex laboratory protocols involving RNA and cDNA to quantify extremely low abundance M. tuberculosis transcripts in culture, mouse, and human samples.

Summary of Lab Focus

Our focus is on the development of novel molecular measures of treatment response in TB based on M. tuberculosis RNA. This is translational collaborative research in which the ultimate goal is a practical biomarker that will accelerate TB clinical trials. We use a variety of quantification methods (RT-qPCR, RNAseq, and droplet digital PCR) to study drug impact on M. tuberculosis in in vitro, murine, and human studies. Our goal is to identify patterns of pathogen RNA that are associated with specific drug exposures and with clinical outcomes such as patient relapse. This work integrates microbiologic insight into pathogen physiology with high-throughput transcriptional analysis and human clinical data. The Walter Lab is committed to the highest standards in research reproducibility and transparency. This position does not involve work directly with live bacteria, animals or humans.

Examples of Work Performed

  • Perform experiments with RNA following stringent procedures to minimize contamination and degradation
  • Perform reverse transcription reactions
  • Conduct qPCR experiments on reverse transcribed cDNA using 96-well and 384-well formats
  • Dilute cDNA using multichannel pipetting robots
  • Perform droplet digital PCR experiments
  • Maintain detailed, organized, and accurate documentation of laboratory work performed
  • Carefully track samples and record up-to-date sample metadata as part of an integrated analysis dataset
  • Communicate effectively with fellow lab members about analysis and processing status
  • Work towards long-term goals of excellent research reproducibility and transparency
  • Participate in ensuring that the laboratory remains stocked with common laboratory supplies, equipment is properly maintained and serviced, and other general functions necessary for the operation of the laboratory are taken care of in a timely fashion.
  • Complete laboratory safety training 
Salary and Benefits:

The hiring salary for this position is negotiable and commensurate with skills and experience. This position is not eligible for overtime compensation.


 Minimum Qualifications:

  • Degree in Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Genetics, or other closely related field
  • Minimum of two (2) years' experience in a molecular biology laboratory
  • Excellent organizational and documentation skills
  • Long-term commitment towards exceptional scientific research
Preferred Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

  • Work experience in a CLIA or CAP accredited laboratory 
  • Expertise in molecular biology-based assays and procedures, including RT-qPCR, ddPCR, sequencing library preparation, and nucleic acid extraction and quantification
  • Strong written and oral communication skills
  • Careful attention to details and written record-keeping
  • Ability to collaborate with global research partners in a diverse scientific setting
  • Strong, independent problem-solving ability
  • Ability to work independently as well as on a team
Application Materials Required: Cover Letter, Resume/CV, List of References

Application Materials Instructions: APPLICATION DEADLINE: Review of complete applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position has been filled.

FOR ALL DRI POSITIONS

For all Full-Time and Part-Time Positions

DRI paid benefits after 30 days:

·        AD&D
·        Short Term Disability
·        Long Term Disability
·        Basic Life Insurance 
·        Paid Holidays (pro-rated for part-time)
 

For all Full-Time Positions

·        403(b) – employee match up to 5% eligibility from your first day.
Benefits for you and your family after 60 days of employment:

·        Dental insurance
·        Vision insurance
·        Employee assistance program
·        Flexible schedule
·        Flexible spending account
·        Dependent Care account
·        Health insurance
·        Health savings account with high deductible health care plan 
·        Buy-up life insurance
·        Paid time off: Vacation, Sick, Personal Days, paid Holidays
 
Work Authorization/Security Clearance 
Candidate must be able to be federally badged via a WOC (without compensation) Letter as administered by the VA and to include any background tests or screenings and VA form 10230 as require by the VA.

 
Compensation: $45,000.00 - $60,000.00 per year

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Company Website: www.dri-va.org

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