Position Summary

The research assistant I will be working day-to-day in a research lab under the direct supervision of Dr. Benskey. Research activites will be focused on investigating mechanisms of neuroinflammatory toxicity in Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease. The work will include in vitro and in vivo experimental work, maintaining and preparing lab reagents, record keeping, assisting with lab safety compliance and training others in the lab (as needed). The applicant is expected to participate in several aspects of the research projects, including coordination of experiments, experimental design, data collection, and data analysis, and preparing reports. Experimental laboratory skills should include multiple molecular biology techniques (PCR and other cloning approaches), protein biochemistry (SDS-PAGE-western blotting, ELISAs, co-immunoprecipitation), cell culture work, rodent husbandry, tissue processing techniques (e.g. free-floating section preparation and analysis). This position is located in the vibrant city of Grand Rapids, MI, in the MSU Grand Rapids Research Center on the Medical Mile where MSU and other local community partners are driving innovation and discovery on many facets of biomedical research.

Minimum Requirements

Knowledge equivalent to that which normally would be acquired by completing a four-year college degree program in the specific field of research employment or other related science fields; one to three years of related and progressively more responsible or expansive work experience in standard laboratory procedures and safety requirements and performing analytical and research techniques in an area related to research being performed; may require software specific to the area of research; or an equivalent combination of education and experience. The position may require special licensing or certification in the field related to the area of employment.

Desired Qualifications

Experience consistent with that of a Master's degree in a field related to cell and molecular biology, neuroscience, biomedical science, or a similar field. The applicant should have first-hand experience working in a laboratory setting and mastery of basic wet lab skills (pipetting, measurements, reagent making, etc.). Basic skills in protein biochemistry, animal husbandry, rodent tissue collection/preparation methods and tissue analysis methods. Applicant must be amenable to ethical use of rodents in experimentation. 

Experience with DNA cloning, protein-interaction assays, Western blotting, fresh tissue homogenization and protein extraction, fixed tissue microtome processing, fixed-free floating tissue immunohistochemsitry are highly desired. Experience working in the field of neuroscience and/or cell and molecular biology is highly desired. The applicant must be able to work in a highly interactive and collaborative research group and be able to effectively communicate and interact with others. 

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Required Application Materials

Curriculum Vitae
List of 3 references, with contact information
Statement of Career goals (<1 page).

Work Hours

STANDARD 8-5

Description of End Date

This is an off-dated position funded for one year from date of hire with possible extension contingent upon funding renewal.

Website

http://translationalscience.msu.edu/

Summary of Health Risks

Work with animals or unfixed animal tissue

The Bidding Eligibility ends on 11/26/2024 at 11:55 PM