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Life Science Research Professional 1

Employer
STANFORD UNIVERSITY
Location
California, United States
Closing date
18 Apr 2020

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The Ma Laboratory in the Stanford University Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Division of Pediatric Surgery, is seeking to hire a full-time Life Science Research Professional 1 as both an independent research assistant (75%) and lab manager (25%). We focus on studying congenital heart disease and are looking for an individual to help with ongoing research projects, as well as oversee the day-to-day operations of the lab. While we are looking for a minimum 2-year commitment, but this has the potential to be a longer-term position (i.e., we are not looking for students looking for a gap year research opportunity before attending additional post-graduate training – please look at our other job postings if this is you). We are also looking to fill this position as soon as possible, potentially starting as early as January 2020.

We have 3 main areas of research currently in our lab:

  1. Clinical research: Using clinical databases to study congenital disorders such as unilateral absence of the pulmonary artery, pulmonary artery reconstruction, coronary artery augmentation, and anomalous aortic origin of the coronary artery. A candidate that is interested in leading the clinical research components of our lab is highly desirable.
  2. Heart valve biomechanics in an ex vivo heart simulator: We are using this heart simulator to model valvular diseases and subsequently optimize surgical repair strategies, which we then intend to translate into both large animal models (i.e., sheep) and clinical settings. Please see the following publication for an example of our prior work with the ex vivo heart simulator: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0022522318329659
  3. Cardiopulmonary development in a neonatal piglet model of pulmonary atresia/stenosis: Unilateral pulmonary atresia/stenosis is a common congenital disorder, which we are currently studying in a neonatal piglet model. We are exploring different surgical repair strategies in this piglet model, as well as studying the underlying biological mechanisms via various molecular biology techniques (e.g., RNA sequencing, qPCR, in situ hybridization, tissue staining).

If you are interested in this position, or have any questions, please send an email to Brandon Strong at ebstrong@stanford.edu. Please attach your current CV to your email.

Duties include:

  • Plan approach to experiments in support of research projects in lab and/or field based on knowledge of scientific theory.
  • Independently conduct experiments; maintain detailed records of experiments and outcomes.
  • Help with general lab maintenance; maintain lab stock, manage chemical inventory and safety records, and provide general lab support as needed. Oversee day-to-day operations of the lab.
  • Apply the theories and methods of a life science discipline to interpret and perform analyses of experiment results; offer suggestions regarding modifications to procedures and protocols in collaboration with senior researcher.
  • Review literature on an ongoing basis to remain current with new procedures and apply learnings to related research.
  • Contribute to publication of findings as needed. Participate in the preparation of written documents, including procedures, presentations, and proposals.
  • Assist with orientation and training of new staff or students on lab procedures or techniques.

*- Other duties may also be assigned  

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

Disclaimer: A strong candidate does NOT necessarily need to possess the following skills, but having at least some of these skills could be beneficial to our lab:

  • A degree in biology, anatomy/physiology, or engineering.
  • Significant prior research experience, preferably in a cardiovascular-related field. However, the ability to think critically and carry out experiments independently is highly desirable.
  • Knowledge of cardiovascular/cardiopulmonary anatomy & physiology. Some developmental biology knowledge may also be beneficial as our work focuses on congenital heart disease.
  • Knowledge of IACUC/APLAC/IRB protocols and approval.
  • Some experience managing a lab and overseeing day-to-day operations would be ideal.
  • Experience with any of the following: patient medical records and database mining, MATLAB and/or CAD programs, molecular biology laboratory techniques (e.g., PCR, RNA sequencing), histology, confocal/fluorescence microscopy, basic surgical hand skills (e.g., suturing, instrument handling, dissections), and/or animal surgery. MATLAB experience is highly desirable.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE (REQUIRED):

Bachelor's degree in related scientific field.  

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (REQUIRED):

  • General understanding of scientific principles. Demonstrated performance to use knowledge and skills when needed.
  • Demonstrated ability to apply theoretical knowledge of science principals to problem solve work.
  • Ability to maintain detailed records of experiments and outcomes.
  • General computer skills and ability to quickly learn and master computer programs, databases, and scientific applications.
  • Ability to work under deadlines with general guidance.
  • 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.
  • May require 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 bases 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.

  Additional Information

  • Schedule: Full-time
  • Job Code: 4945
  • Employee Status: Regular
  • Grade: E
  • Department URL: http://ctsurgery.stanford.edu/
  • Requisition ID: 85882

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