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Form of workAs a Research Assistant I, you will perform a diverse range of laboratory procedures under the general supervision of Principal Investigator, Aaron Brown or his designee. A key responsibility will be the oversight and monitoring of animal husbandry, encompassing comprehensive management of the mouse colony. This involves breeding strains with various genetic backgrounds, genotyping, conducting in vivo experiments, and handling sample collection and analysis. You will also be responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining laboratory instruments and equipment, closely monitoring experiments, making observations, and accurately recording results. Recognizing and reporting problems or deviations in experimental conditions is crucial. Proficiency in routine techniques and procedures relevant to the lab's overall goals is expected. Position availability is contingent upon grant funding.
Dr. Brown’s Laboratory at MaineHealth Institute for Research is at the forefront of combating obesity and metabolic syndrome, through innovative studies on stem cells and signaling pathways shaping adipose tissue. Our focus lies in developing models that unravel the mysteries of how brown and beige adipose tissue harness energy stored in fats to generate heat, presenting a promising avenue for natural weight loss promotion.
Types of Research Projects:
- Development and analysis of mouse models for obesity and diabetes resistance testing
- Utilization of optogenetics for the creation of light-based therapies targeting weight loss
- Development of adipocytes from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs)
- Exploration of mitochondrial biogenesis and turnover in adipocytes to enhance energy expenditure
Required Minimum Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs)
- Education: High school diploma preferred. Bachelor's degree preferred.
- License/Certifications: N/A
- Experience: No prior years of relevant experience required.
- Interpersonal skills necessary to communicate and work effectively.
- Visual acuity, manual dexterity, math skills and a scientific acumen are required.
Preference will be given to candidates with any of these additional attributes:
- Associate or Bachelor’s degree in a biology-related field
- Proficient use of computers, equipment, and high-technology applications
- Previous research experience
- Basic understanding of genetics
- Previous work with mice and/or animal models
- Previous experience with cell culture techniques
- Understanding of general molecular and biochemistry laboratory techniques
This entry-level position is fully onsite at our Scarborough, ME research facility.
