Research Assistant - HHRI

The Hennepin Healthcare Research Institute (HHRI) has a current opening for a full-time Research Assistant to support the research being conducted by Drs. Anne Frosch and Kristina Burrack at Hennepin Healthcare's HCMC.

This is an onsite position requiring a consistent presence in downtown Minneapolis, MN.

The focus of the Frosch/Burrack lab is on translational immunology research, with an emphasis on infectious diseases including malaria, HIV, and SARS-CoV-2. Our overall goal is to develop a comprehensive understanding of host-pathogen interactions in order to enhance immunity and limit immune-mediated pathology. To do this, the lab performs clinical research as well as research on animal models. Our lab has significant experience in processing clinical samples including samples collected from individuals living with HIV, COVID-19, and malaria. Procedures done regularly by our laboratory personnel including peripheral blood mononuclear cell isolation, storage, and shipment, T and B cell phenotyping by flow cytometry, cell stimulation assays and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays.

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Research Assistant will conduct laboratory bench research and experiments on clinical (human) specimens and support the clinical research team in participant facing research activities. Laboratory procedures will include specimen processing/storage/shipping. Research assays will include cell culture, ELISA, flow cytometry, PCR and more. Perform data entry and computer maintenance tasks. Maintain adequate supplies. Assist research staff with projects.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

Perform laboratory bench research analysis and experiments on human and mouse specimens

• Conduct complex, multi-step immunologic laboratory procedures such as ELISAs, cell culture assays, flow cytometry, PCR, and other assays, as necessary
• Conduct research on laboratory animals (mice), including handling, manipulation, and necropsy; assist in maintaining a mouse breeding colony
• Select and adapt laboratory research methods to meet specific research needs and to assist in development of new laboratory techniques

Process blood specimens

• Coordinate specimen collection and further processing (e.g., plasma, serum, PBMCs)
• Process blood specimens on site, including centrifuging, aliquoting, isolating cells, and storing specimens in freezer or liquid nitrogen as specified
• Measure and record specimen volumes, and catalog specimen inventory.

Perform specimen shipping/receiving functions.

• Package and transport (via courier or shipping) specimens to collaborating groups
• Accept and ship specimens to collaborators

Maintain oversight of an internal specimen bio-repository (freezer and LN tank)

• Catalog specimens, including tracking and pulling for shipping
• Develop and improve organizational and tracking processes for bio-repository.
• Perform routine electronic check on refrigerator/freezer temperature systems

Maintain adequate supplies and laboratory facilities.

• Maintain an inventory of and order supplies as needed (e.g., Purchases & Expenses log)
• Organize and clean laboratory, including dishwashing and autoclaving, and associated storeroom
• Upkeep of equipment (e.g., liquid nitrogen supply, freezers, eyewash stations)

NON ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

• Prepare and maintain documents on local laboratory processes and procedures
• Prepare various general laboratory preventive maintenance procedures
• Perform miscellaneous laboratory tasks as required
• Perform occasional research participant visit included venous blood collection.

EMPLOYMENT STANDARDS:

Education/Experience:

Any equivalent combination of education and experience that provides the required skills and knowledge is qualifying. Bachelor's degree is preferred or a combination of related education and work experience to equal at least four (4) years. Experience in conducting biomedical bench laboratory research is preferred as is experience with small animal handling.

Skill, Knowledge & Ability:

Requires interaction with a diverse population. Knowledge of biomedical research terminology, including basic immunology/infectious disease terminology, and bench research procedures, techniques, and standards. Must have the ability to follow standard operating procedures and techniques for a bench laboratory when performing tasks. Ability to work independently, be self-directed and motivated, highly organized, efficient, and detail-oriented with the ability to multi-task. Possess good manual dexterity to handle specimens and research animals. Ability to demonstrate effective oral and written communication. Ability to maintain strict adherence to research protocols. Skilled in problem solving, trouble-shooting assays, keeping detailed records and files, and managing time effectively and efficiently. Demonstrated knowledge of PC's and basic software applications (eg, Microsoft Office). Displays high standards of attendance, punctuality, and attention to detail.

AA/EOE of Minorities, Women, Individuals with Disabilities, Veterans