Research Assistant II

Hanover, NH 03755
710 Remsen Building

The Walker Lab is hiring a Research Assistant II to join us in the Department of Molecular and Systems Biology in the Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth College in beautiful Hanover, NH. Our lab's research focus is to understand how neural circuitry forms in development and how it re-forms during regeneration. We use zebrafish as our model system and employ microscopy and molecular and cellular biology approaches. Visit our website to learn more: https://sites.dartmouth.edu/walkerlab/

The ideal candidate will be familiar with genetics and neurobiology and have experience with molecular and cell biology techniques, including cloning and PCR, transcriptomics, image analysis, and/or microscopy. We seek a creative and curious scientist who works well independently and as part of a team. This position will entail independent research, zebrafish husbandry, and technical training for lab members.

* Highly competent in molecular biology laboratory methods, procedures and techniques as well as the equipment and instruments, e.g. PCR, gel electrophoresis, cloning, immunohistochemistry, in situs, microscopy.

* Ability to work independently and apply critical thinking and sound judgment.

* Ability to manage laboratory inventory and records.

* Good organizational and time management skills.

* Editorial skills for preparation of reports.

* Willingness to work with/be exposed to hazardous materials such as hazardous chemicals.

* Knowledge of computers and software applications including image analysis software like FIJI/ImageJ.

* Knowledge of standard computer software packages for data analysis and presentation, and on-line literature search engines.
* Skilled hands and good judgement

Dartmouth College is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer with a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion. We prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, veteran status, marital status, or any other legally protected status. Applications by members of all underrepresented groups are encouraged.

Employment in this position is contingent upon consent to and successful completion of a pre-employment background check, which may include a criminal background check, reference checks, verification of work history, conduct review, and verification of any required academic credentials, licenses, and/or certifications, with results acceptable to Dartmouth College. A criminal conviction will not automatically disqualify an applicant from employment. Background check information will be used in a confidential, non-discriminatory manner consistent with state and federal law.

This position is funded by a grant. Continuation is based upon available funds.

Dartmouth College has a Tobacco-Free Policy. Smoking and the use of tobacco-based products (including smokeless tobacco) are prohibited in all facilities, grounds, vehicles or other areas owned, operated or occupied by Dartmouth College with no exceptions. For details, please see our policy. https://policies.dartmouth.edu/policy/tobacco-free-policy

* Conducts experiments by applying established methods and procedures.

* Works on an independent research project and/or assists lab members with experiments, depending on need and expertise.

* Designs, implements, analyzes, and interprets experiments under the general guidance of the principal investigator and other investigators in the laboratory

* Trains lab members (mainly undergraduates and rotation students) in techniques

* Maintains written records of activities and observations.

* Anticipates unexpected findings and troubleshoots techniques.

* Reconciles results that are disparate from anticipated findings; re-runs techniques as necessary.

* Meets regularly with the principal investigator.

* Assists in the preparation of grants, manuscripts, and poster/oral presentations.

* Collaborates with the Principal Investigator in investigating and developing modifications to techniques and documents all new techniques developed in the laboratory.

* Adheres to laboratory safety requirements including general and chemical/hazardous waste safety disposal methods.

* Collects and analyzes data resulting from experimentation/testing.

* Summarizes results and prepares progress reports for oral presentation at laboratory meetings.

* Prepares appropriate and understandable representations of data such as graphs, charts, tables, statistical summaries, etc.

* Contributes to the preparation of scientific manuscripts or grant applications by drafting portions of the text, preparing graphs, tables, and charts, etc.

* Conducts literature searches to assist in establishing new laboratory techniques.

* Handles and cares for zebrafish, including collecting tissue, breeding, collecting embryos, washing tanks.

* Uses PCR and molecular cloning methods to identify mutations in zebrafish lines and maintain zebrafish stocks.

* May assist Aquatics Facility staff with feeding and facility maintenance as needed.

* Accomplishes day-to-day care and housekeeping of laboratory.

* Assess the need for and orders all supplies and reagents needed for experiments.
* Assists in the maintenance of laboratory equipment and safety records, and in the preparation of routine reagents.

* Monitors laboratory equipment and instrument performance; obtains maintenance and repair as necessary.

* Maintains computerized records associated with laboratory activities.

* Instructs others in laboratory methods, procedures, and techniques and provides technical guidance and direction as required.

* Communicates respectfully with a diverse community.

* Performs other duties as assigned.

* Candidate will be trained in laboratory techniques.