Job Description

This Research Assistant position is in the Jones Laboratory within the Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology. The Jones lab investigates the pathophysiology and biology of lung disease in animal and 3D cell culture models, with a particular focus in stem cell biology and tissue regeneration. We use cutting-edge tools such as single cell genomics, epigenomics, high-resolution microscopy, novel transgenic mouse models, and customized bioinformatics pipelines to address our research questions.

The Research Assistant will support ongoing projects focused on lung regeneration and disease by executing established experimental protocols in animal models and 3D organoid systems. This role is ideal for individuals seeking hands-on research experience and training in modern molecular and cellular biology techniques.

Duties Include:

Research

• Execute experimental procedures for mouse models of lung injury and in vitro 3D organoid culture systems.
• Perform molecular biology and histological assays to characterize pulmonary disease models.
• Set up and operate standard laboratory equipment.

Conduct Experiments

• Perform basic procedures in experimental animals and cell culture systems
• Assist in mouse lung injury experiments, including monitoring and post-procedure care
• Collect and process biological samples for:
  • RNA and protein analysis
  • Tissue sectioning, staining, and immunohistochemistry
  • Microscopy imaging
  • RNA/ATAC-sequencing and single-cell genomics workflows
• Perform genotyping and PCR for animal model characterization
• Perform cell culture, flow cytometry, and qRT-PCR

Collect and Analyze Research Data and Prepare Reports

• Maintain detailed and accurate experimental records Track progress of research activities
• Prepare data for analysis and assist with figures and summaries
• Assist with manuscript preparation (e.g., data organization, references)
• Present updates at weekly lab meetings

Facilities and Equipment

• Assist with ordering and maintaining laboratory supplies and reagents
• Support setup and routine maintenance of laboratory equipment

Administrative and Project Management

• Assist with or independently prepare IACUC protocols and regulatory documentation

Supervision/Staffing

• Work under the supervision of the Principal Investigator and senior research staff
• May assist in training newer lab members as skills develop

Collaboration

• Work collaboratively in a team-oriented research environment
• Demonstrate professionalism and respect in interactions with individuals from various backgrounds

Positive Impact/Achieving Results

• 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.

Ideal Candidate

• Highly motivated, reliable, and eager to learn

Percent of Time: 100%

Salary: $42,392 to commensurate

Pay Grade: 3A -

Type of Position: Specified Term. Initial appointment is for one year. Appointment may be extended based on performance and availability of funding.

Benefits Highlights:

• Regular salaried position located in Iowa City, Iowa
• Fringe benefit package including paid vacation; sick leave; health, dental, life and disability insurance options; and generous employer contributions into retirement plans
• For more information about Why Iowa?, click here

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in biomedical-related science, cell biology, physiology, biochemistry, molecular biology or related field or an equivalent combination of education and experience in a relevant field of study
• Must be able to translate, adapt and apply that knowledge to perform beginning level research in a health science field or discipline
• Basic skills in molecular biology and cell biology research
• Experience with bacterial and mammalian cell culture
• Fine motor skills are required for animal tissue collection along with animal handling experience
• Basic computer skills including document formatting and page layout, spreadsheet abilities

Desirable Qualifications

• A minimum of 0.5 years previous research experience in biomedical research lab
• Experience genotyping, cloning, DNA/RNA/protein purification
• Experience in dealing with animals, such collecting tissue samples and tissue sectioning is highly desired

Application Process: In order to be considered, applicants must upload a resume and cover letter (under submission relevant materials) that clearly address how they meet the listed required and desired qualifications of this position.

Job openings are posted for a minimum of 7 calendar days. This job may be removed from posting and filled any time after the minimum posting period has ended.

Successful candidates will be required to self-disclose any conviction history and will be subject to a criminal background check and credential/education verification. This position is not eligible for University sponsorship for employment authorization.

For additional questions, please contact Anne Beyerink at anne-phillips@uiowa.edu.

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