Responsibilities

Conduct studies to extract DNA from endocrine-related mood disorder bloods; maintain a DNA sample database
Maintain inventory and archive of human tissue samples for BEB
Process human tissue samples for distribution to and collection from collaborating outside laboratories
Send out biological samples for analysis; follow up with the AO and purchasing agent to ensure the timely delivery of the samples to the processing labs; receive biological samples from outside laboratories after analyses and reintegrate
Maintain safety and integrity of BEB Lab; ensure all safety certifications are current; monitor and problem solve sample storage facility
Compile and analyze molecular or cellular experimental data and adjust experimental designs as necessary
Perform laboratory procedures following protocols including DNA sequencing, cloning and extraction, RNA purification, or gel electrophoresis
Operate all basic lab equipment such as computers, centrifuges, UV light box and camera, quantitation instruments, Agilent Bioanalyzer, PCR and qPCR instruments, plate reader, etc.
Design and perform original molecular and cellular research
Evaluate, test and implement new processes, methodologies and tools for complex molecular and cellular testing and research
Evaluate new technologies to enhance or complement current research
Perform quality control, validation, and other quality activities to verify performance of clinical assays
Document research findings and maintain accurate logs and records of all experimental activities and outcomes
Maintain precise and complete records of all experimental activities, to include methodologies, instrumentation and findings for future reference
Input accurate record of all research activities and findings in in-house databases and repositories
Provide routine activity updates and briefings to senior researchers and program executives
Provide subject matter expertise to senior scientists and program executives
Maintain deep understanding of research methodologies and the latest trends and developments in molecular and cellular biological testing and research
Consult with diverse, cross-functional stakeholder groups to identify opportunities, develop problem statements and understand context to inform research strategies
Prepare results of experimental findings for presentation and publication
Produce final reports and presentations of experiments and findings for distribution internally among researchers and senior administrators
Perform peer review of internally produced research findings and articles

Requirements

10 years' experience in molecular biology and endocrine lab
Field of Study: Molecular Biology
Expertise in cell culture and recombinant DNA techniques
Proficiency with CTDB database and Microsoft Office
Certifications & Licenses as required for laboratory work

Nice-to-Haves

Experience with preparing blood samples to perform cell culture techniques for establishing patient cell lines and DNA re-extraction
Experience tracking mood rating for studies and digitizing Visual Analogue Scales
Experience calibrating and operating instruments; monitoring processes to maintain quality standards
Experience collaborating with external labs (e.g., LNG at NIAAA) in the collection of samples for genetic studies
Experience with quality control and safety standards within laboratory and freezer storage systems