Summary

The NIH-funded Neurogenetics laboratory of Dr. Hsiao-Tuan Chao at Baylor College of Medicine is seeking a highly qualified research assistant. The laboratory’s research focuses on understanding childhood neurologic disorders by uncovering the genetic causes and studying how these genetic changes impact brain development and function. Dr.  Chao's lab is currently studying genetically engineered mouse and fly models of disorders that cause epilepsy, autism, ataxias, and learning impairments. The Research Assistant will support research studies to understand gene function in health and disease. They will have the opportunity to develop new skills, implement multidisciplinary research techniques, and be part of a collaborative workplace with the potential for growth.

Job Duties

• Directs and conducts research experiments listed below.
• Molecular biology experiments (e.g. cloning, DNA/RNA extraction, PCR, qPCR, RT-PCR, Western blot, immunoprecipitations, sequencing, primer design, etc)
• In vitro assays using both human fibroblasts and cell lines (e.g. cell culture techniques, luciferase, ELISA, ELISPOT, etc)
• Small animal experiments (e.g. mouse and fruit fly colony maintenance, behavior, neuroimaging, histology, drug administration, etc)
• Evaluates and analyzes data, generate summary reports of data
• Use of graphical and statistical computer software (e.g. Excel, Adobe Illustrator, ImageJ, and GraphPad Prism)
• Documents results of experiments and reports to principal investigators
• Maintains equipment and supplies
• Organize lab documentations and resources, generate standard operating protocols, and maintain regulatory documents
• Assist and train less experienced lab members

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a Basic Science or a related field. 
• Three years of relevant experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's Degree in a related field
• Three years of hands-on experience working with mice and/or fruit flies
• Proficiency with tissue collection and molecular biology techniques is preferred
• If able, applicant will generate genetically engineered mouse and fruit fly models to perform assays evaluating the genetic alterations
• Attention to detail, flexible with evolving project needs, strong communication and documentation skills