Gnotobiotic Specialist

The García-Bayona lab in the Department of Microbiology and Immunology at Stanford University is seeking a Gnotobiotic Specialist (LSRP 2). Our research focuses on understanding the role of mobile genes in the community interactions of the gut microbiota. We study how our intestinal bacteria are evolving with us and explore how that knowledge can be harnessed to modulate the gut community for human health benefits. Please check our lab website for more information: garciabayonalab.stanford.edu .

The Gnotobiotic Specialist will be responsible for overseeing germ-free/gnotobiotic mouse facilities and conducting gnotobiotic mouse experiments using isolators and individually ventilated cage racks. Candidates should have good hands and strong organizational skills. Ideal candidates are self-starters, comfortable with autonomy, and embrace opportunities to tackle new problems and challenges as part of a dynamic and inclusive team. The Gnotobiotic Specialist will work in close collaboration with all lab members to design and carry out gnotobiotic mouse experiments.

CORE DUTIES:

• Conduct experiments that require the use of germ-free mice. Make recommendations on experimental design and/or research direction to lab members.
• Independently conduct complex experiments to gather data for a portion of a major research project with an emphasis on gnotobiotic mouse experiments, including oral gavage, fecal sample collection, and analysis.
• Interpret and analyze results, often where few guidelines exist, and make modifications to existing procedures and protocols.
• Develop new research protocols where appropriate protocols are not described in the literature or where modification or adaptation of standard procedures and protocols is required.
• Perform ongoing literature review to remain current with new procedures and related research; apply to ongoing research and development of new protocols.
• Supervise staff or students as needed, including oversight and direction on techniques for gnotobiotic experiments, as well as consultation on project work. Serve as a technical resource for other research staff.
• Carry out all the activities required for germ-free and gnotobiotic mouse husbandry and facility maintenance in the gnotobiotic room. These include monitoring the gnotobiotic mice for changes in their appearance and behavior, performing cage changes, cleaning, sterilizing equipment and supplies, providing the animals with food and water, determining sex and weaning animals according to established protocols, and keeping accurate and complete records on animal inventories and activities as required by various regulatory agencies.
• Set up, maintain, and keep track of breeding strategies and success in order to recognize when to replace breeding animals in order to maintain the colony and achieve research goals with the appropriate number of animals.
• Oversee supplies under the supervision of the principal investigator and the Gnotobiotics Director.
• Work with the health and safety department to ensure lab complies with regulations and all required trainings.
• Clean and maintain the assigned animal room. Duties include collecting and properly disposing of all waste, sweeping, and mopping.

*- Other duties may also be assigned

EDUCATION (REQUIRED):
Bachelor's degree in a related scientific field and two years of relevant work experience.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (REQUIRED):

• Comprehensive understanding of scientific principles.
• General computer skills and ability to quickly learn and master computer programs, databases, and scientific applications.
• Strong analytical skills and excellent judgment.
• Ability to maintain detailed records of experiments and outcomes.
• Ability to work under deadlines with general guidance is essential.
• Excellent organizational skills and demonstrated ability to accurately complete detailed work.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Experience performing mouse husbandry using gnotobiotic isolators, including monitoring mouse conditions and sterilization of materials for introduction into germ-free isolators.
• Experience with mouse colony maintenance.
• Basic mouse handling and breeding skills, including oral gavage and blood draw.
• Basic microbial culture methods.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Frequently stand, walk, twist, bend, stoop, squat, grasp lightly, use fine manipulation, grasp forcefully, perform desk-based computer tasks, use telephone, write by hand, lift, carry, push, and pull objects weighing over 40 pounds.
• Occasionally sit, kneel, crawl, reach and work above shoulders, sort and file paperwork or parts.
• Rarely climb, scrub, sweep, mop, chop and mix or operate hand and foot controls.
• Must have correctable vision to perform duties of the job.
• Ability to bend, squat, kneel, stand, reach above shoulder level, and move on hard surfaces for up to eight hours.
• Ability to lift heavy objects weighing up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to work in a dusty, dirty, and odorous environment.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• May require working in close proximity to blood borne pathogens.
• May require work in an environment where animals are used for teaching and research.
• Position may at times require the employee to work with or be in areas where hazardous materials and/or infectious diseases are present.
• Employee must perform tasks that require the use of personal protective equipment, such as safety glasses and shoes, protective clothing and gloves, and possibly a respirator.
• May require extended or unusual work hours based on research requirements and business needs.