Job Description

Description

The Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine at West Virginia University is currently accepting applications for a Research Assistant position.

About the Opportunity

We are seeking a motivated research technician to join our laboratory, located within the Health Science Center of WVU in Morgantown, WV. Our research focuses on membrane receptors, such as G-protein coupled receptors, whose mutations are linked to various cardiovascular, neurological, or metabolic diseases. We apply interdisciplinary approaches including cell biology, biochemistry, biophysics and structural biology to understand the structure and function of these receptors, as well as seek therapeutics to treat related diseases.

The selected candidate will learn cutting-edge technologies including the state-of-the-art cryo-electron microscopy, perform independent research, and present at our weekly group meetings. Successful candidates should also have exceptional documentation and organizational skills for research and lab operations in addition to excellent teamwork skills.

We strongly believe in work-life balance and keeping time for things we love outside our work. WVU offers generous benefits, including:
• 37.5-hour work week
• 13 paid holidays (staff holiday calendar)
• 15 annual leave (vacation) days per year or more based on years of service (employee leave)
• 18 sick days per year (for when you’re ill, for when you need time to care for sick family, for your own, or your family’s, regularly scheduled medical appointments. Who is family for the purpose of this leave? A lot of people in your life including immediate relatives and in-laws as well as others considered to be members of your household living under the same roof)
• WVU offers a range of health insurance and other benefits
• 401(a) retirement savings with 6% employee contribution match, eligibility to continue health insurance, and other retiree perks. Looking for more retirement benefits information? Check out retirement health insurance benefits, retirement income, and FAQ’s.
• Wellness programs

What You'll Do

Lab logistics
Preparation of reagents
Molecular cloning
Protein expression and purification
Cell culture
Data processing and analysis
Mentoring junior lab members
Overall maintenance of laboratory
Pay Grade: 15


Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in life sciences
A minimum of 0-6 months of lab research experience including molecular cloning and protein purification
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

Knowledge of laboratory environment and appropriate procedures
Experience in general cell biology and molecular techniques
Ability to prepare reagents
Ability to use Microsoft office and other related lab software/applications
Skilled at using general laboratory equipment
Good organization skills and self-motivation
Willingness and ability to learn new protocols/procedures in a rapid manner
Ability to get along with others in a group setting