Research Assistant I - Neurotherapeutics

This position is with the neurotherapeutics research team led by Dr. Regina C. Armstrong within the School of Medicine of the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences in Bethesda, MD. This hand-on research uses multiple approaches to advance treatments for recovery and repair of white matter injury using experimental models and clinical specimens of traumatic brain injury (TBI).

Responsibilities

• Participate in a range of in vivo and in vitro laboratory procedures.
• Assist with/or perform surgical, behavioral, and other experimental procedures in pre-clinical models.
• Perform real-time data acquisition using available technologies. The incumbent should be comfortable with operating and maintaining data acquisition programs.
• Assist with/or perform laboratory procedures including biospecimen tissue collection and preparation for neuropathology, including immunohistochemistry and histology.
• Assist with/or perform laboratory techniques for analysis of blood and tissue specimens for protein and gene expression.
• Assist with maintaining databases and inventory logs.
• Perform data entry for research projects ensuring that data is entered for analysis in a timely and efficient manner.
• Assist with data analysis and presentation.
• Assist with preparation of standard operating procedures, maintenance of laboratory records, and general upkeep of lab spaces.
• Assist with compliance for applicable regulatory practices and procedures.
• Laboratory management responsibilities include routine maintenance of laboratory equipment; managing scheduling of commonly used spaces/equipment; and compliance with departmental and institutional policies. Must be capable of handling multiple projects.
• May perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned or directed by the supervisor. This may include attendance of and participation in required training for role.

Qualifications

Education and Experience: Bachelor's Degree in Biology, Neuroscience, or a relevant scientific field. Minimum of 0-2 years' experience required.

Required Knowledge, Skills And Abilities

• The incumbent should have a general working knowledge of good laboratory practices.
• The incumbent should be comfortable with handling animals and working in an animal laboratory environment.
• Excellent time management and self-motivation.
• Must be proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and is expected to have a working knowledge of statistical analysis and image analysis programs.
• Must be able to work in a team and independently.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a T1/Public Trust background check.

Work Environment

This position will take place in a laboratory environment; may involve working with biohazards and may require occasional weekend and evening work. For application of specialized programs, the incumbent will be provided required training.