Job ID 12413 Location Case Main Campus Full/Part Time Full-Time Regular/Temporary Regular Job Description POSITION OBJECTIVE Working under general supervision, the Research Assistant 2 will plan and carry out research projects in accordance with general plans as directed by the principal investigator. Specifically, the research aims are to understand how small molecule metabolites produced by the microbiota, under the influence of host diet, serve as precursor substrates and receptor ligands to regulate metabolism and gene expression in epithelial cells. The lab conducts research in the field of nutritional biochemistry, focusing on how the gut microbiota interacts with the intestinal epithelium to promote tissue homeostasis and how these interactions become altered in pathological states, like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). This position will work with animals. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS Plan and carry out research projects in accordance with general plans, collect and analyze experimental data. Studies will involve, but are not limited to, mammalian cell and organoid culture, bacterial culture, PCR/qPCR, transfection and lentivirus-mediated transduction of nucleic acids, Western blotting, isolation of biological molecules (DNA, RNA, protein, metabolites) from cells and tissues, tissue histology, stable isotope tracing by LC-MS/MS, and luciferase assays. Experiments may also involve immunofluorescence, NGS for transcriptomics, genomics, and 16S-based microbial community profiling, flow cytometry, and bacterial culture. (52%) Conduct a series of experiments to supply scientific information as part of a larger project. Perform mouse experiments, including breeding, genotyping, oral gavaging, and tissue collection. (20%) Maintain clear, accurate, and detailed records of experimental procedures, results, and conclusions. (10%) May assist in developing or optimizing techniques and procedures as required for assigned research projects. These techniques may include, but are not limited to transfections, transductions, mouse protocols, bacterial culture, PCR/qPCR, blotting, and LC-MS/MS for metabolites. The principal investigator and other senior lab staff will provide oversight. (6%) Oversee inventory and assist with general organization and maintenance of the laboratory as needed. Order supplies and care for equipment. (6%) Train new staff, and direct the work of students in experimental protocols. (6%) NONESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS Perform other duties as assigned. ( CONTACTS Department: Daily contact with supervisor and other lab members to discuss research and maintain workflow. University: Occasional contact with other departments to share information. External: Limited or no contact with vendors to exchange information. Students: Frequent contact with student employees to exchange information. SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY This position has no direct supervision of staff employees. Train new staff and direct the work of students. QUALIFICATIONS Education/Experience: Bachelor's degree in biological sciences and 1 to 3 years of related laboratory experience or Associate's degree in an approved biotechnology program and 2 to 4 years of experience required. REQUIRED SKILLS Possesses knowledge of common concepts and experimental procedures related to biochemistry and cell and molecular biology, such as cell culture, DNA preparation, PCR, immunoblotting, etc. Ability to willingly learn new techniques and procedures quickly as needed, follow established protocols or laboratory procedures and request clarification if necessary. Ability to work effectively independently and collaboratively within a team (must be highly motivated, responsible, dependable and a self-starter). Professional and effective verbal and written communication skills and good interpersonal skil