Core Facility Research Assist
: Job Details :

The Iowa Institute of Human Genetics (IIHG) is seeking a Core Facility Research Assistant to provide specialized services and consultation to researchers/investigators in a core research facility to facilitate highly technical and specialized scientific research. Core facilities provide cost-effective, on-site equipment and materials. Conduct experimental tests and procedures in a research and clinical laboratory. Assume responsibility for the daily operation of genome analysis using state-of-the-art sequencing technologies. This position is not eligible for remote work.Percent Time: 100%The mission of the Iowa Institute of Human Genetics (IIHG) is to bring personalized genomic medicine to patients across Iowa, and beyond. The unique environment of the IIHG at the University of Iowa provides unprecedented opportunities to make progress in the discovery and translational phases of human genetics. By integrating state-wide activities in human genetics, the IIHG is able to promote clinical care, research and education focused on the medical and scientific significance in the human genome.The IIHG Genomics Division is a CLIA certified, College of American Pathologists (CAP) accredited laboratory. The division provides a broad spectrum of resources designed to make the techniques of genomics, functional genomics, and recombinant DNA technology readily available to the University of Iowa research and clinical communities and outside users.Duties to include:Specialized Services/ Application of Research Protocols:Perform DNA sequence analysis on samples provided by research and clinical investigators. Operate and maintain sequencing and support instrumentation. Perform computer operations required for data collection and analysis. Assist researchers by providing technical information and consultation in the proper preparation of samples for genome sequencing analysis.Maintain archives of all sequencing data generated within the facility. Retrieve archived information upon request from researchers. Maintain computer databases of all activity. Create reports for monthly billing of accounts.Perform the standard operating procedures required to execute the services provided by a core research facility. Perform research activities based upon protocols developed by Core Directors or other core staff. Work with other core facility staff or facility director in using the core facility's specialized equipment or services. Assist with collecting and disseminating data by operating the facility's instrumentation, equipment, performing specialized services for researchers and assist with performing complex procedures and techniques. Operate facility instrumentation or equipment, evaluate data quality, and document results. As individual skills develop, may propose modifications to protocols and/or assist in the design of experiment protocols based on specialized knowledge and expertise.Acquire practical knowledge of other activities and services within the IIHG Clinical Diagnostic and Genomics Divisions. Periodically provide assistance and/or fill in for other research assistants in the laboratory during vacation/sick leave periods.Follow the general policies and procedures in accordance with the regulation of The University of Iowa and Carver College of Medicine.Perform other duties as assigned.Literature Review/ Data Analysis:Read and review articles as directed by senior staff or the director for the purposes of improving the quality of the service. Assist in performing data analysis for researchers using specialized data analysis software in a form useful for further statistical analysis or publication. May assist in interpreting experimental data.Educate, Train and Consult:Assist in providing education, training, and consultation to core facility users on highly specialized equipment or technology. May assist in providing advice and guidance in either self-service or full-service core facility.Provide instruction to researchers in sample preparation and quality control techniques, and usage of analysis software. Facilities, Equipment and Information Management:Assist in the preparation, calibration and maintenance of core lab and specialized core facility equipment.Administrative and Financial Responsibility for Fee for Service Operation:Maintain clear and accurate documentation of the protocols, instrumentation logs, and/or data collected by the core. Initiate purchases of supplies and inventory for facility. May assist with the administrative duties necessary for a fee-for-service facility operation such as collecting and/or entering facility billing data. Adhere to safety and compliance guidelines. Human Resources/ Supervision:May train, provide direction, assignments, feedback of employees to assure outcomes are achieved.Required Qualifications:A Bachelor's degree in Biochemistry, Biomedical Engineering, or other biological science, or an appropriate combination of education and years of experience working in an academic research environment is required. Excellent written and verbal communication skills are required as well as, the ability to work in a service laboratory team environment.Experience with recombinant DNA techniques and DNA/RNA purification is required. Desirable Qualifications:Experience with PCR, Sanger Sequencing, and Genome sequencing techniques is highly desirable.Use of Windows computers and software is highly desirable.Experience preparing libraries for NGS sequencing is highly desirable.Experience operating liquid handling systems is highly desirable.Experience operating genome sequencers is highly desirable.Experience performing quality control of samples submitted for clinical/research NGS sequencing is highly desirable. Experience maintaining records of laboratory activities is highly desirable.Position and Application details:In order to be considered for an interview, applicants must upload the following documents and mark them as a Relevant File to the submission:•Resume•Cover LetterJob openings are posted for a minimum of 14 calendar days and may be removed from posting and filled any time after the original posting period has ended.Successful candidates will be required to self-disclose any conviction history and will be subject to a criminal background check and credential/education verification. Up to 5 professional references will be requested at a later step in the recruitment process.For additional questions, please contact ...@uiowa.edu