Research Associate III

Posting Summary Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey is seeking a Research Associate III for the Center for Advanced Biotechnology and Medicine (CABM) within Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences (RBHS).The primary purpose of the Research Associate III is to contribute to research exploring hormone-driven interactions between the gut, brain, and body. The position involves performing technical research activities and assisting in highly specialized gut-brain studies focused on a microbial-regulated hormone, oxytocin. Projects span intestinal physiology, microbiome research, neuroscience, and psychology, aiming to understand the role of gut-derived oxytocin, its relationship to brain oxytocin, and microbial regulation of this hormone. These questions are addressed using mouse models, organoid systems, and ex vivo tissue preparations. Responsibilities include conducting experiments in mice and cell cultures, maintaining mouse colonies and tissue culture environments, and supporting specialized research projects. The Research Associate III will also contribute to lab organization, equipment and supply ordering, and serve as an active member of a collaborative research team.Among the key duties of this position are the following: As directed, performs various research and technical operations relative to ongoing investigatory activities of the laboratory; assists in conducting specialized research for a particular phase of ongoing projects related to gut-brain research. Performs intestinal damage experiments and associated molecular biology assays in mice and cell culture to pursue the role of gut oxytocin in intestinal damage and repair. Conducts mouse behavioral experiments to evaluate the role of gut oxytocin in social and stress-related behaviors. Maintains the mouse colony and performs mouse husbandry, ear punching, and PCR-based genotyping. Develops and performs intestinal hormone secretion assays in tissue culture cell lines. In collaboration with the Mass-Spec Core, contributes to the development of a mass-spec method for measuring oxytocin. Assists in the conducting of a continuous program of research and development regarding the analytical and instrumentation functions of the laboratory. Serves as an active member of the lab by attending meetings, regularly presenting research findings and journal papers, and participating in the evaluation of the existing procedures, suggesting revisions where necessary and proposing new procedures where required. Maintains lab organization of space, supplies, and equipment. FLSA Exempt Grade 18S Salary Details Minimum Salary 51988.000 Mid Range Salary 61929.000 Maximum Salary 72984.000 Offer Information The final salary offer may be determined by several factors, including, but not limited to, the candidate’s qualifications, experience, and expertise, and availability of department or grant funds to support the position. We also take into consideration market benchmarks, if and when appropriate, and internal equity to ensure fair compensation relative to the university’s broader compensation structure. We are committed to offering competitive and flexible compensation packages to attract and retain top talent. Benefits Rutgers provides a comprehensive benefits package to eligible employees. The specific benefits vary based on the position and may include: Medical, prescription drug, and dental coverage Paid vacation, holidays, and various leave programs Competitive retirement benefits, including defined contribution plans and voluntary tax-deferred savings options Employee and dependent educational benefits (when applicable) Life insurance coverage Employee discount programs Position Status Full Time Working Hours Standard Hours 37.50 Daily Work Shift Day Work Arrangement This position requires a fully on-site work arrangement. Union Description HPAE 5094 Payroll Designation PeopleSoft Seniority Unit Terms of Appointment Staff - 12 month Position Pension Eligibility ABP Qualifications Minimum Education and Experience Master’s Degree in Biomedical Science, Molecular, Cell Biology, Neuroscience, or a relevant science plus one (1) year of related research experience, or a Bachelor’s Degree in Biomedical Science, Molecular, Cell Biology, Neuroscience, or a relevant science plus two (2) years of related research experience. Certifications/Licenses Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Excellent sterile technique. Mouse handling experience, including scuffing, ear punching, IP injection, gavage, facial bleeds, perfusion. Experience in mouse dissection of the gut and brain. Must possess strong organizational and multitasking skills, along with excellent attention to detail and the ability to maintain accurate records. Must demonstrate critical thinking and initiative when conducting and supporting research activities. Must have the ability to work both independently and collaboratively as part of a team. Effective oral and written communication skills. Commitment to maintaining a safe and clean laboratory environment. Strong communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills will greatly assist in this position. Experience maintaining an organized laboratory environment and assisting with equipment and supply ordering. Preferred Qualifications Basic wet lab experience (pipetting, some molecular biology experience, media preparation). PCR, gel electrophoresis experience. Cell culture experience. Equipment Utilized Physical Demands and Work Environment PHYSICAL DEMANDS:Standing, sitting, walking, talking, seeing, and hearing. Manual dexterity and vision sufficient for standard laboratory operations and computer data entry and analysis. Lifting up to 25 lbs.WORK ENVIRONMENT;Lab and animal facility environment. Universal precautions are mandatory. Special Conditions