Job Description

Research Assistant - Neuroscience and Pharmacology (Tomchik Lab) - Stem Cell Research

The Carver College of Medicine Department of Neuroscience and Pharmacology (Dr. Tomchik lab) is seeking a Research Assistant. This Research Assistant will carry out research on the mechanisms of metabolic alterations in neurofibromatosis type 1, using both human induced pluripotent stem cells and Drosophila melanogaster. Our research focuses broadly on neuronal plasticity and metabolic alterations in genetic disorders such as neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1). This disease affects 1 in ~3000 individuals, causing a range of symptoms, including tumor formation, increased incidence of neurocognitive symptoms, and metabolic alterations. This project is focused on the mechanisms of the metabolic alterations. We have recently discovered that loss of neurofibromin (the protein mutated in NF1) alters metabolic rate via neuronal effects (Botero et al., 2021; Nature Communications 12(1):4285) and are diving deeper into the underlying mechanisms. This position provides an opportunity to carry out research relevant to human disease at the intersection of neuroscience and metabolism across model systems.

Duties will include (but are not limited to) the following:

• Carry out cell culture experiments with minimal oversight, seeking guidance when needed.
• Maintain human iPS cell lines, differentiating them into different cell types, and carrying out biochemical, physiological, morphological (etc.) experiments on the resulting cell lines.
• Perform immunohistochemistry for various markers on cell lines.
• Image cell lines with microscopy to analyze morphological differences across conditions.
• Maintain fly stocks, carry out crosses to generate specific genetic lines/progeny, assist with fly room cleaning.
• Work in a cell culture facility and maintain a clean environment.
• Coordinate with other researchers, within the lab and across other units.
• Perform metabolic analyses using human iPSCs and Drosophila models.
• Perform experiments independently based on protocols developed by other research staff or principal investigator of the research project.
• Set up and operate research materials/equipment.
• Read and understand protocols.
• Arrange and plan daily activities to prepare and carry out experiments to meet overall research goals.
• Perform procedures assuring fidelity to protocols.
• Track progress of research, identify any failure points, troubleshoot, consult with others when necessary/helpful, and ensure continued progress of research to meet goals.
• Read and review research articles to develop knowledge of the research area.
• As knowledge/skills develop, analyze literature to develop hypotheses for discussion with other researchers and the principal investigator.
• Adhere to safety and regulatory guidelines.
• Assist with ensuring that the working environment and records/documentation are compliant with applicable health and safety regulations.
• Collate documentation for protocol submissions (IRB, IBC, etc.) as requested.
• Keep detailed records of experiments.
• Present research results verbally at lab meetings.
• Prepare written research results for publication.
• Present research results at research conferences, locally and nationally.
• Order and maintain records of drugs/chemical agents and other supplies.
• Assist in the maintenance of lab equipment, monitoring lab inventory, arranging service contracts, and interfacing with technicians and vendors.
• Assist graduate students and postdocs with experiments if/when requested by the principal investigator.

Our mission is to inspire and educate world class health care providers and scientists for the people of Iowa and our global community. Researchers in the College's over 280 laboratories are served by state-of-the-art core research facilities and research support facilities. Much of the research conducted is interdisciplinary and collaborations are fostered and coordinated through major research centers, institutes, and programs. Many faculty members are internationally renowned for their research. Two faculty members are Howard Hughes Institute Investigators, 12 are members of the Institute of Medicine and two are members of the National Academy of Sciences.

Percent of Time: 100% Staff Type: Professional & Scientific Type of Position: Specified Term. Initial appointment is for one year. Appointment may be extended based on performance and availability of funding. Pay Grade: 3A - 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

Qualifications Required Qualifications: Requires a bachelor's degree in a biomedical related field, other related science program, or equivalent combination of education and progressively responsible experience in a research laboratory environment Previous experience in a laboratory Excellent written and verbal communication skills, organizational skills, and interpersonal skills Experience with Microsoft Office Ability to work independently while being accountable and efficient with time management Desirable Qualifications: Experience with cell culture / iPSCs Experience with Drosophila Basic histology techniques (e.g., immunohistochemistry) and/or biochemistry techniques (e.g., western blots) Experience with microscopy Familiarity with Prism and/or Illustrator Application Process: In order to be considered, applicants must upload a CV or 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 and may be removed from posting and filled any time after the original 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. Up to 5 professional references will be requested at a later step in the recruitment process. This position is not eligible for employment sponsorship. For additional questions, please contact Anne Beyerink at anne-phillips@uiowa.edu.

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