Life Science Research Associate - Atherosclerosis - PAVIR

Palo Alto Veterans Institute for Research (PAVIR) supports the nation's second largest research program conducted among the VA Hospitals and the Huang Lab is looking for a full time Life Science Research Associate. The Research Associate will design, implement, and lead basic and applied research, development, and scientific research projects independently and in collaboration with the Principal Investigator and other research staff.

This position holds responsibility to participate in the development of areas of investigation towards the study of biomaterial mechanical properties (stiffness) and biochemistry (cell adhesive ligands) on endothelial de-differentiation in the context of atherosclerosis. The Research Associate will be responsible for bioengineering, in vitro, and molecular biology assays (RNA sequencing, qPCR, immunostaining) and participate in preclinical animal testing.

Please note that the Research Associate will be formally hired through Stanford University as a postdoctoral fellow.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

• Perform advanced biological techniques and procedures using live animals (mice), animal tissue and in vitro cultured human or animal cells;
• Collaborate with the P.I. on the design and execution of laboratory experiments; Serve as the main contact for experiments;
• Develop and validate experimental protocols;
• Analyze data from experiments;
• Prepare charts for presentations and publication;
• Write papers on projects for publication;
• Perform general lab organization; Guide and train lab technicians when appropriate;
• Other tasks as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Required: D.;
• At least three years of prior research experience in biology, cell biology, molecular biology, bioengineering or a related discipline;
• Preferred: Degree in biology, cell biology, molecular biology, bioengineering, or a related discipline;
• At least one year of experience in RNA Sequencing, flow cytometry, and hydrogel fabrication;
• Advanced knowledge of scientific research methodology;
• Ability to troubleshoot an experiment as necessary;
• Exquisite record keeping and experimental documentation capabilities;
• Excellent organizational skills;
• Strong scientific writing skills and demonstrated capacity to drive first author publications;
• Knowledge of safe handling/storage of biohazardous chemicals & bloodborne pathogens;
• Solid training in general lab skills such as micro-pipeting, PCR analysis, genomic and plasmid DNA preparation, protein measurements, and tissue homogenization;
• Solid training in analytical skills, including routine calculations of dilution factors and solution concentrations as well as using Excel and other programs for data calculation and analysis;
• Knowledge of research procedures and protocols gained through education or experience;
• Experience in a variety of research techniques/methods and follow-up data collection;
• Knowledge of laboratory safety rules and procedures;
• Excellent communication skills (written and verbal), including public speaking skills;
• Ability to work independently and proactively;
• Ability to work within a team context and collaborate with other lab personnel.

ABOUT PALO ALTO VETERANS INSTITUTE FOR RESEARCH (PAVIR)

PAVIR facilitates research and education activities conducted at the VA Palo Alto Health Care System. At PAVIR we work with more than 160 uniquely talented medical scientists. We recruit and retain talented employees who believe in making a difference in the lives of others through innovative health research.

READY TO JOIN OUR RESEARCH TEAM?

If you feel that you would be right for this job, please fill out our initial 3-minute, mobile-friendly application. We look forward to meeting you!

PAVIR is a nonprofit foundation affiliated with the Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System (VAPAHCS). As a condition of employment, all PAVIR employees are required to have an approved appointment with VAPAHCS and complete a background check before they can commence work.

PAVIR is pleased to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Minorities, Women, Veterans, and Individuals with a Disability are encouraged to apply. We welcome and encourage diversity in the workplace regardless of race, color, religion, age, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. If you need special assistance or an accommodation to apply for a posted position, please contact jobs@pavir.org - Human Resources department.