Research Assistant - Department of Ophthalmology

The Department of Ophthalmology at West Virginia University Research Corporation is currently accepting applications for a Research Assistant position.

About the Opportunity

We are looking for a self-motivated, reliable, organized, and detail-oriented scientist with a strong interest in vision research and a passion for advancing scientific knowledge. This position is ideal for those who wish to pursue research long-term without following the traditional academic career path. In addition to hands-on experimentation, the successful candidate will be expected to take a lead role in drafting figures and drafting manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed journals, thereby helping shape the lab's scientific output.

You will work under the mentorship of Dr. Ezequiel Salido, Assistant Professor in the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, and part of the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine at the Health Science Center, WVU. Our laboratory is located at the Biomedical Research Center (BMRC) building on the WVU campus. The research at SalidoLab focuses on understanding the neuronal extracellular matrix (ECM), specifically examining how ECM components surrounding photoreceptors in the retina contribute to vision and are implicated in various ocular diseases. Our studies leverage a broad range of experimental approaches, including:

• CRISPR-Cas9 animal models featuring mutations in ECM genes linked to human disorders
• Immunohistochemistry, Western blot, PCR, Electroretinography (ERG)
• In vivo retinal imaging, electron microscopy, super-resolution microscopy
• AAV-based gene therapy and multi-omics analyses
• Biochemical techniques to study protein interactions and post-translational modifications

For more details about Salido Lab research, please visit our lab webpage (https://salidolab.com/).

The incoming scientist will join a diverse team dedicated to uncovering the fundamental causes of blindness and developing innovative treatments for vision loss. The position offers substantial opportunities for professional growth, including authorship on publications and ongoing skill development. The role includes experimental work and advanced scientific communication duties, such as data analysis, figure preparation, and manuscript drafting.

At WVU Research Corporation, we strongly believe in work-life balance and keeping time for things we love outside our work. WVU Research Corporation offers a comprehensive benefits package with a variety of options to suit your needs:

• 13 paid holidays (staff holiday calendar)
• Paid Time off (PTO)
• 403(b) retirement savings with a fully vested 3% employee contribution match, (Employees have the option of contributing an additional 1-3% of their earnings to the plan, which is also matched by the WVURC)
• A range of health insurance and other benefits
• Dependent Education Scholarship
• WVU Perks

What You'll Do

Research & Experimental Design

• Plan, design, and execute comprehensive experiments with the guidance of Dr. Salido.
• Troubleshoot and refine experimental protocols related to molecular biology, microscopy, electrophysiology, and other specialized techniques.
• Ensure meticulous documentation of experimental data, protocols, and analyses.

Data Analysis & Manuscript Preparation

• Draft clear, compelling figures and tables for publication, based on thorough data analysis.
• Take the lead in writing and editing scientific manuscripts, including the methods, results, and discussion sections.
• Contribute to grant proposals by creating preliminary data figures and sections detailing research aims.

Mentorship & Team Collaboration

• Assist in training and supervising junior lab members, including graduate students, technicians, and undergraduate volunteers.
• Provide guidance on experimental design, data analysis, and scientific writing.
• Foster a supportive and collaborative laboratory environment.

Occasional Evening/Weekend Work

• Some experiments may necessitate schedule flexibility to accommodate time-sensitive procedures, animal work, or critical research deadlines.

• Bachelor's degree in related the life sciences (e.g., Neuroscience, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Ophthalmology, or related field).
• Master's degree and extensive research experience preferred.
• A minimum 0-6 months of relevant experience in biological research laboratory. Undergraduate research/lab experience acceptable.
• Any equivalent combination of related education and/or experience will be considered.
• All qualifications must be met by the time of employment.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Proficiency in standard molecular biology techniques (PCR, Western blot, cell culture, etc.).
• Hands-on experience with microscopy (confocal, super-resolution) and histological methods (e.g., cryosectioning, immunostaining).
• Experience with small-animal (mouse) handling (breeding, genotyping, ocular tissue dissections) is beneficial.
• Demonstrated scientific writing skills, including manuscript drafting, figure preparation, and clear data presentation.
• Strong organizational and communication abilities, with a keen eye for detail and a passion for scientific discovery.
• Strong capabilities in verbal and written communication, alongside excellent time management and organizational skills. Self-motivation is essential for success in this role.
• Solid background in general molecular biology techniques, essential for daily laboratory tasks.
• Ability to operate general laboratory equipment (i.e., pH meter, scales, pipets, centrifuges, etc.) and the willingness and ability to learn new techniques, procedures, or protocols.
• Commitment to continuous learning and skill enhancement, actively seeking training and development opportunities.
• Efficient at gathering and analyzing information to identify and resolve problems.
• Responsive to management direction, adheres to work schedules, and manages leave responsibly, ensuring consistent productivity and team coherence.

The WVURC was created as a not-for-profit corporation in 1985 to support research (R1) at West Virginia University. We provide evaluation, development, patenting, management, and marketing services for inventions of the faculty, staff and students of the University.

The WVURC receives and administers funds awarded by external agencies for research and other activities and is responsible for helping protect intellectual property through patents, copyrights and licensing agreements for start-up companies based on University research.

West Virginia University Research Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We invite all qualified applicants regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or Veteran status.