Job ID 12412 Location Case Main Campus Full/Part Time Full-Time Regular/Temporary Regular Job Description POSITION OBJECTIVE Working under moderate supervision, the Research Assistant 1 will perform research projects to understand how small molecule metabolites produced by the microbiota, under the influence of host diet, serve as precursor substrates and receptor ligands to regulate metabolism and gene expression in epithelial cells. The lab conducts research in the field of nutritional biochemistry, focusing on how the gut microbiota interacts with the intestinal epithelium to promote tissue homeostasis and how these interactions become altered in pathological states, like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). This position will work with animals. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS Perform laboratory research and carry out protocols as directed by the principal investigator. Studies will involve, but are not limited to, mammalian cell and organoid culture, bacterial culture, PCR/qPCR, transfection and lentivirus-mediated transduction of nucleic acids, Western blotting, isolation of biological molecules (DNA, RNA, protein, metabolites) from cells and tissues, tissue histology, stable isotope tracing by LC-MS/MS, and luciferase assays. Conduct analysis of samples. Experiments may also involve immunofluorescence, NGS for transcriptomics, genomics, and 16S-based microbial community profiling, flow cytometry, and bacterial culture. (60%) Perform mouse experiments, including breeding, genotyping, oral gavaging, and tissue collection. (24%) Record results for a particular experiment or closely related series of experiments. Maintain clear, accurate, and detailed records of experimental procedures, results, and conclusions. (10%) As needed, assist with general organization and maintenance of the laboratory; order supplies, manage inventories, and maintain test equipment utilized in experiments. (6%) NONESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS Perform other duties as assigned. ( CONTACTS Department: Daily contact with supervisor and other lab members to discuss research and maintain workflow. University: Occasional contact with other departments to share information. External: Limited or no contact with vendors to exchange information. Students: Frequent contact with student employees to exchange information. SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY This position has no direct supervision of staff employees. QUALIFICATIONS Education/Experience: Bachelor's degree in biological sciences and 0 to 1 year of laboratory experience or Associate's degree in an approved biotechnology program and 0 to 2 years of experience required. REQUIRED SKILLS Possesses knowledge of common concepts and experimental procedures related to biochemistry and cell and molecular biology, such as cell culture, DNA preparation, PCR, immunoblotting, etc. Ability to willingly learn new techniques and procedures quickly as needed, follow established protocols or laboratory procedures and request clarification if necessary. Ability to work effectively independently and collaboratively within a team (must be highly motivated, responsible, dependable and a self-starter). Professional and effective verbal and written communication skills and good interpersonal skills with the ability to work and communicate with various individuals within and external to the university. Ability to operate laboratory equipment. Ability to maintain complete and easily retrievable laboratory data. Strong organization skills and good habit of maintaining a clean lab working environment; demonstrate attention to detail and accuracy, time management skills, and proven ability to successfully follow through on assigned projects. Ability to meet consistent attendance. Ability to interact with colleagues and supervisors face to face. Must demonstrate com