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Life Sciences Research Assistant II (CHU1902.19)

The Palo Alto Veterans for Research (PAVIR) is seeking a Research Assistant to assist with the research for the Joint Preservation Center, an integrated bench to bedside center focused on improving the clinical treatment of osteoarthritis (OA) and OA prevention. More information about the center and the Center Director, Dr. Constance Chu, can be found here: https://stanfordhealthcare.org/doctors/c/constance-chu.html
The Research Assistant will support research projects that address the overarching clinical need for effective treatments to delay or prevent the development of post-traumatic osteoarthritis (PTOA). Under the supervision of the Lab Manager, the Research Assistant will be responsible for running multiple established protocols.
The ideal candidate will have outstanding basic laboratory skills (i.e. pipetting, dilutions) and thorough knowledge of sterile lab conditions.
This is a regular, full time (40 hours/week), non-exempt (hourly-paid) position. Benefits:
  • Medical Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vacation
  • Sick Pay
  • Holidays
  • Life Insurance - paid by PAVIR
  • Long-term Disability Insurance - paid by PAVIR
  • Short-term Disability Insurance - paid by PAVIR
  • Flexible Spending Account
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan with Company Match and Profit Share
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Commuter Benefit
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.
Duties:
  • Assist in processing biological specimens, including: human and animal plasma, serum, cells and tissues;
  • Perform experiments based on knowledge of scientific theory in support of the Principle Investigator's (PI) research projects with high level skills for accurate completion of and troubleshooting biomarker assays;
  • Perform mammalian cell culture procedures;
  • Maintain detailed records of specimens, experiments and outcomes.
  • Assist with general lab maintenance including maintaining lab stock, managing chemical inventory and safety records;
  • Perform other wet lab related duties as required.
  • Serve as a technical resource for other research staff;
  • Interpret and analyze the results often where few guidelines exist;
  • Make recommendations on plan design and/or research direction to PI.
  • Contribute to the preparation of papers for publication especially in the results section;
  • Perform ongoing literature review to remain current with new procedures and related research;
  • Present findings to lab work group.
Requirements:
Education:
  • Required: BA/BS degree (or equivalent experience) in Biology or in a related field;
  • Desired: Master's degree in Biology or in a related field.
License/Certification: Valid driver license required.
Experience:
  • Required: 1 year or more of applicable bench lab and assaying experience;
  • Desired: 2+ years of related experience.
Knowledge / Skills / Abilities:
  • Previous experience with cell culture, molecular biology and tissue processing for histological investigations;
  • Competent with ELISA, multiplex, and cell culture;
  • Knowledge of microscopy, PCR, small animal handling, and histology;
  • Familiar with the usage of multi-channel pipettes;
  • Strong knowledge of research procedures and protocols gained through education and experience;
  • Knowledge of laboratory safety rules and procedures;
  • Strong computer skills (i.e. Microsoft Word, Excel, Powerpoint, etc.) and ability to quickly learn and master computer programs;
  • Strong analytical skills and excellent judgment skills;
  • Ability to work under deadlines with general guidance;
  • Ability to work independently and proactively with limited supervision;
  • Excellent communication skills (written and verbal);
  • Familiarity with preparing results for publication desired;
  • Ability to multitask and be flexible when needed.
Environmental Conditions / Physical Demands:
Physical: Lifting up to 20 lbs occasionally, standing, bending, repetitive movement, manual dexterity, etc.
Environmental: Exposure to a wet lab environment, research animals, blood borne pathogens, toxic/caustic chemicals or reagents. Occasional travel to multiple performance sites.
PAVIR engages in nonprofit medical research and works with sponsors and the Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System (VAPAHCS) in administering funds for conducting research to find new and improved ways to combat human disease and help people with disabilities. Please refer to our website for additional information: www.pavir.org 
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. 


For more information, or to apply now, you must go to the website below. Please DO NOT email your resume to us as we only accept applications through our website.