A Research Assistant position is available in the clinical and translational research laboratory of Dr. Rajan Thakkar. Dr. Thakkar is a pediatric surgeon whose lab investigates immune function following burn injury in human pediatric patients and mice. The lab has an interest in the use of immunotherapy to modify the immune system following burn injury to improve adverse outcomes such as infection. As part of a newly funded 5-year grant (starting September 2023), a research assistant is needed to perform research experiments (flow cytometry, cell culture assays, RNA extraction, immunohistochemistry, ELISA) in accordance with provisions of approved protocols; maintains records of experiments and prepares laboratory reports; assists in analyzing data and preparing publications. The lab will be moving into a new lab space in the Abigail Wexner Research Institute Building 2 in June 2024.

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Prepares and collects blood, tissue, and other samples from pediatric burn patients. Such activities may be performed independently and may require, although rare evening and weekend hours.
• Performs research experiments, conducts assays, and prepares tissue cultures independently or semi-independently in accordance with protocols approved by the principal investigator. Such experiments include cellular (flow cytometry, cell culture assays) and molecular biology (RNA, immunohistochemistry, ELISA) protocols
• Performs research experiments involving a mouse model of scald injury with infection. Duties include prepping and shaving the mice, monitoring after burn injury/infection, and necropsying. This may require evening and/or weekend duties although infrequent.
• Ensures accuracy of laboratory analytical procedures as required by specific research projects.
• Collects and controls experimental data and patient information; and maintains accurate daily logs of experiments including methods, results, and conclusions.
• Critically evaluates and interprets the results of data analyses with input from the principal investigator.
• Orders supplies needed to conduct research and monitors expenditure of funds to assure that studies are conducted within budgetary constraints; maintains inventory of equipment and supplies; and assures that research equipment is in good working order.
• Assists the principal investigator in the preparation of scientific publications and grant proposals.
• Instructs other laboratory workers and students in standard methods, practices, procedures, and equipment operations.
• Maintains a clean working area and performs general laboratory maintenance. Adheres to proper safety techniques and procedures.
• Performs miscellaneous related duties including research laboratory safety and assist in moving the lab to the new space.

KNOWLEDGE , SKILLS AND ABILITIES REQUIRED

Bachelor of Science in Cellular/Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Microbiology or related fields. Two to five years of translational laboratory research experience preferred. Experience or coursework in anatomy, physiology, statistics, relevant research methods and radiation desirable. Previous experience in small animal work is desirable.

MINIMUM PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Percent of time spent on:

• 50% Preparing test substrates, conducting assays, preparing cultures
• 25% Collecting and interpreting results of data analyses with PI
• 10% Miscellaneous paperwork associated with research
• 05% Ordering supplies
• 05% Resource for other investigators
• 05% Instructing less experienced lab personnel

Minimum physical requirements:

• Kneeling / reaching
• Finger dexterity
• Talking / hearing / seeing
• Lifting / carrying weight 0-20 pounds for 1-5 minutes

The above list of duties is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by individuals assigned to this classification. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive list of duties performed by the individual so classified, nor is it intended to limit or modify the right of any supervisor to assign, direct, and control the work of employees under his/her supervision.

EOE M/F/Disability/Vet