Research Associate

JOB SUMMARY:
The GeneLab project is an omics repository enabling open science for NASA and offers the research community access to spaceflight data sets. GeneLab is a critical component supporting NASA's overall objectives to discover and explore deeper into space. NASA is actively conducting biological research on the ground and in microgravity aboard the International Space Station; in the process, many samples are produced that require processing for omics analysis.

The GeneLab Sample Processing Lab is seeking an experienced Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) Research Associate with a background in Molecular Biology to support our Genomics and Sequencing Core to support evaluating new methods, processing critical samples, and working with our scientific community to standardize and publish SOPs.

BASIC REQUIREMENTS:

• Minimum of a Bachelor’s Degree of Molecular Biology, Bio-chemistry, Bio-engineering or related field.
• Minimum of one (1) year laboratory experience in a molecular biology laboratory.
• Experience in NGS applications
• Proficiency in RNA and DNA extraction from various sample types required.
• Must be proficient in library preparation (e.g. Illumina, Kapa).
• Experience utilizing robots to automate laboratory processes.
• Proficiency in aseptic technique.
• Scientific technical writing experience required
• Excellent presentation and communication skills
• Must be a legal resident of the United States.
• Knowledge of computer operating systems and common applications to include Microsoft Office required.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills (written and oral) are highly desired.
• Strong attention to detail is highly desired.
• Ability to work independently with minimal guidance while consistently exercising good judgement is highly desired.
• Must possess the ability to use the English language for reading and writing/producing written English work.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Perform RNA, DNA, protein extractions from critical, irreplaceable tissues, bacterial and mammalian cell samples
• Perform library preparation and quality control for Next Gen Sequencing
• Work with lab automation robotics; liquid handlers, automated RNA/DNA extractors
• Be able to reproducibly follow established procedures as well as troubleshoot experiments as necessary.
• Be able to perform molecular biology work in pre-PCR and post-PCR lab environment while adhering to safety guidelines.
• Perform assays, cell culturing, PCR and other molecular biology techniques on an as-needed basis.
• Accurately and consistently record experiment details, materials, results and conclusions using lab notebook and currently established methods
• Should be able to present findings and convey comprehensive project status reviews using technical reports and presentations
• Establish good sample tracking (LIMS) system and manage metadata information relevant to the samples/extracts/libraries
• Review and provide guidance to PI’s on inquiries about sequencing standards and services
• Write protocols and methods for datasets and scientific publications
• Support science communication efforts including lab tours, conferences, and writing articles

NON-ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Perform other related duties as assigned

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Occasionally Squatting/Crouching, Climbing, and Kneeling
• Often Reaching, Standing, Sitting, Walking, Stooping, Pushing, Pulling, Talking, Hearing, and Seeing
• Lifting/Moving Requirements - Minimum of up to 25 pounds