Job Code: 4952
Job Grade: G

The Senior Research Assistant will oversee, design, and execute basic and applied research and development and scientific research projects in collaboration with the Principal Investigator (PI) and other research staff but with a considerable degree of independence. The individual will be expected to oversee the research of several trainees and Research Assistants, with the goal of developing both a basic and applied research program in the general areas of stem cell biology, biology of aging, and bioengineering. These investigations will generally involve the mastery of existing techniques and the development of new techniques and methodologies.

Duties include*:

• Plan and perform complex (lab and/or field) experiments for a major portion of the research project with experiments involving cell culture, handling small animals, administering experimental therapeutics and evaluating brain pathology via immunostaining, Western blotting and other histological/biochemical approaches. Interpret and perform basic analyses of results.
• Maintain detailed records of experiments and outcomes.
• Interpret and analyze results, often where few guidelines exist. Based on prior results, contribute to development of new research protocols and procedures or adaptation of existing protocols.
• Make recommendations on plan design and/or research direction to principal investigator.
• Work with health and safety department to ensure lab complies with regulations and all required trainings.
• Participate in multidisciplinary teams across different faculties or schools.
• Perform general lab maintenance as needed; maintain lab stock, manage chemical inventory and safety records, and provide general lab support as needed. May assist with purchasing laboratory equipment.

* - Other duties may also be assigned

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Minimum 2 years’ research and/or lab management experience preferable.
• Experience with cell culture techniques and proficiency in Western Blotting, ELISA, histology, immunostaining, multiplexed protein assays, light and confocal microscopy is highly desirable.
• Handling of small animals and conducting assessments of transgenic mice using molecular biology and other approaches is preferable.
• Strong skills in instrument and equipment maintenance.
• Past proven effectiveness in lab operations
• Goal-oriented and self-motivated with excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Experience with use and maintenance of confocal microscope desirable.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE (REQUIRED):

Bachelor's degree in related scientific field and three years of related experience, or Master's degree.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (REQUIRED):

• Comprehensive understanding of scientific principles.
• General computer skills and ability to quickly learn and master computer programs, databases, and scientific applications.
• Strong analytical skills and excellent judgment.
• Ability to work under deadlines with general guidance is essential.
• Excellent organizational skills and demonstrated ability to accurately complete detailed work.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS*:

• Frequently stand, walk, twist, bend, stoop, squat, grasp lightly, use fine manipulation, grasp forcefully, perform desk-based computer tasks, use telephone, write by hand, lift, carry, push and pull objects weighing over 40 pounds.
• Occasionally sit, kneel, crawl, reach and work above shoulders, sort and file paperwork or parts.
• Rarely climb, scrub, sweep, mop, chop and mix or operate hand and foot controls.
• Must have correctible vision to perform duties of the job.
• Ability to bend, squat, kneel, stand, reach above shoulder level, and move on hard surfaces for up to eight hours.
• Ability to lift heavy objects weighing up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to work in a dusty, dirty, and odorous environment.
• Position may require repetitive motion.

* - Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodation to any employee with a disability who requires accommodation to perform the essential functions of his or her job.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• May require working in close proximity to blood borne pathogens.
• Requires work in an environment where animals are used for teaching and research.
• Position may at times require the employee to work with or be in areas where hazardous materials and/or infectious diseases are present.
• Employee must perform tasks that require the use of personal protective equipment, such as safety glasses and shoes, protective clothing and gloves, and possibly a respirator.
• May require extended or unusual work hours based on research requirements and business needs.

WORK STANDARDS:

• Interpersonal Skills: Demonstrates the ability to work well with Stanford colleagues and clients and with external organizations.
• Promote Culture of Safety: Demonstrates commitment to personal responsibility and value for safety; communicates safety concerns; uses and promotes safe behaviors based on training and lessons learned.
• Subject to and expected to comply with all applicable University policies and procedures, including but not limited to the personnel policies and other policies found in the University's Administrative Guide, http://adminguide.stanford.edu.