The Freeman Lab at the department of Applied Physical Sciences at UNC-Chapel Hill is an interdisciplinary space dedicated to the study of basic and translational science required to understand cell-extra cellular matrix interactions for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.
The Freeman lab seeks a research technician/assistant responsible for the planning, development, and implementation of molecular biology experimental procedures, performing laboratory techniques, and collecting, documenting, evaluating, interpreting, and analyzing data to identify trends and appropriate conclusions. Minimum requirements include a bachelor’s degree in biology, biochemistry or a related field with relevant experience and an understanding of basic laboratory techniques.
The Research Assistant will perform molecular biology techniques; transform and culture bacteria for protein production; perform routine culture, transfection, maintenance and assay of stem cells and human cell lines, perform experiments involving PCR, preparation of DNA and RNA, protein purification and western blot analysis. The technician will also assist with the day-to-day management of the bio-related research laboratory operations including supervising students and ensuring compliance with chemical and biosafety regulations. Attendance at regularly scheduled lab meetings is expected.
The Research Assistant must be able to read and understand the scientific literature and execute experiments as outlined in the protocols. High level of responsibility, and independence are required for this position. The candidate for the Research Assistant should have a solid background in molecular biology techniques and must master the aseptic technique for tissue culture purposes, must be extremely organized and detail oriented, capable of working on multiple projects simultaneously and maintain detailed notes on each experiment.
Minimum Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in molecular biology and/or related field, Masters or Ph.D. preferred.
- Demonstrable evidence of successfully implementing molecular biology techniques in a research environment.
- Experience with cellular and molecular assays, flow cytometry, western blot quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) and reverse transcription qPCR (qRT-PCR), DNA and RNA sample preparation, Immunofluorescence assays is a plus.
Responsibilities, Tasks and Outcomes:
- Culturing stem cells and human cell-lines.
- Perform cell manipulation procedures such as cell enrichment, cell passage, cryopreservation and cell product thaw/wash.
- Performs calculations including for reagents dilutions and cell concentrations.
- Adhere to institutional and regulatory guidelines when handling, recording, and collecting data and samples.
- Perform cellular and molecular assays, flow cytometry, western blot analysis and fluorescent imaging.
Required Skills and Interests:
- Proficient with molecular biology bench techniques (PCR, gel electrophoresis, plasmid construction, transformation, CRISPR-Cas9, etc.).
- Proficient with bioinformatics tools for primer design, construct design, and sequence analysis is a plus.
- Familarity with microplate readers, coulter counters, cell enumeration techniques, colorimetric / fluorescent assays and related instrumentation to evaluate targeted modifications.
- Independent troubleshooting and experimentation.
- Ability to learn quickly in a fast-paced environment.
- Ability to interface with external laboratories and consultants.
The Candidate Must Be:
- Organized and possess excellent attention to detail
- Creative, flexible, proactive, punctual, and persistent
- A team player
- Able to Self-Manage
- Comfortable with a demanding fast-paced work environment and able to excel in a growing environment
Candidates should email their resume to Ronit Freeman, ronifree@email.unc.edu