Research Assistant, Biochemistry

Research Assistant, Biochemistry (Job Number: 2000981)DescriptionThe Carter Lab in the Department of Biochemistry at Vanderbilt University is seeking a talented neuroscience/biochemistry research assistant to join our group. This individual will work closely with our team of students, post-docs and undergraduates to develop therapeutic candidates for treating Charcot Marie Tooth (CMT) disease, the most common hereditary neuropathy, affecting 1 in 2500 people. It is a slowly progressive, debilitating disease causing loss of motor function and sensation and is often associated with chronic pain. This project will go from small molecule screening through preclinical testing.Our research involves a lot of cell culture, including primary neuron and glia cultures, and imaging analysis using various microscopy methods. Much of our work uses mouse models and we have a substantial colony of transgenic animals. Our studies often include tissue sectioning and immunostaining. We also utilize standard molecular biology and biochemistry techniques, such as cloning, cell transfection, western blotting, pcr, cell sorting, immunoprecipitation, etc.Duties and ResponsibilitiesUnder supervision, contribute to on-going research projects related to receptor signal transduction involved in the phagocytosis of degenerating neurons.Appropriately analyze data, report findings to team members and assist with preparing publications.

Maintain appropriate records regarding compounds and procedures.

Assist with basic mouse breeding and maintenance and perform genotyping.

Carry out the dissection of neural tissue and perform primary cell culture.

Culture mammalian cell lines.

Perform routine lab maintenance duties, such as preparing stock solutions, autoclaving materials, updating inventories, etc.

Oversee equipment maintenance and frozen cell stocks.

Collaborate with others on research projects.

Bachelor degree in neuroscience, cellular, molecular, or biochemistry or a related field is necessary.

One year of laboratory experience is necessary.

Experience with mammalian cell culture is necessary.

Ability to perform basic lab calculations related to buffer concentrations is necessary.

Familiarity with basic statistics is necessary.

Comfort working with rodents is necessary.

Commitment to Equity, Diversity and InclusionAt Vanderbilt University, we are intentional about and assume accountability for fostering advancement and respect for equity, diversity, and inclusion for all students, faculty, and staff. Our commitment to diversity makes us who we are. We have created a community that celebrates differences and lets individuality thrive. As part of this commitment, we actively value diversity in our workplace and learning environments as we seek to take advantage of the rich backgrounds and abilities of everyone. The diverse voices of Vanderbilt represent an invaluable resource for the University in its efforts to fulfill its mission and strive to be an example of excellence in higher education.Vanderbilt University is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer. Women, minorities, people with disabilities, and protected veterans are encouraged to apply.Primary Location: United States-Tennessee-NashvilleOrganization: 18220 - BiochemistryJob: Research / Lab Tech / ParaprofessionalVanderbilt University is committed to principles of equal opportunity and affirmative action