Research Assistant

Scheduled Hours

40

Position Summary

Dr. Gomez-Lopez's research is primarily focused on the immunological pathways that lead to obstetrical disorders, with the goals of improving the understanding of the mechanisms of disease and of developing methods for the early diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of pregnancy complications, with an emphasis on preterm birth. Successful candidate will also participate in translational efforts in this area. Applicants with a strong background in molecular biology, single-cell technologies, and in using rodent models are encouraged to apply.

The Research Assistant will be joining the Center for Reproductive Health Sciences within the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the latter of which includes a number of federally funded laboratories and a strong research infrastructure in basic, translational, and clinical investigation in reproductive health.

This position assists with research studies, experiments, preparation of materials, general lab maintenance and documentation.

Job Description

Primary Duties & Responsibilities:

• Conducts research experiments and assays focused on understanding the immunological pathways that lead to obstetrical disorders.
• Evaluates laboratory research results, reports research findings and discusses project outcomes with laboratory staff, trainees, the PI and collaborators.
• Presents research in lab meetings and participates in journal clubs and data presentations.
• Performs data entry and maintains meticulous research notes and records.
• Helps with general laboratory duties, including cell culture, ordering, coordinating regulatory information, and preparing reagents.
• Complies with established safety procedures and maintains required documentation on laboratory and specimen conditions.
• Coordinates research projects with other institutions and investigators.
• Participates in developing hypotheses to be tested and ways of testing it.
• Assists with general supply/equipment orders, lab maintenance and cleaning.
• Performs literature searches on specified topics.

Working Conditions:

• Works in a laboratory environment with potential exposure to biological and chemical hazards.
• Must be physically able to wear protective equipment and to provide standard care to research animals.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all job duties performed by the personnel so classified. Management reserves the right to revise or amend duties at any time.

Required Qualifications

Education:

Bachelor's degree or combination of education and/or experience may substitute for minimum education.

Certifications/Professional Licenses:

No specific certification/professional license is required for this position.

Work Experience:

Laboratory Operations (2 Years)

Skills:

Not Applicable

Driver's License:

A driver's license is not required for this position.

More About This Job

WashU seeks highly motivated individuals who are able to perform duties in a manner consistent with our core mission and guiding principles.

Preferred Qualifications

Education:

No additional education unless stated elsewhere in the job posting.

Certifications/Professional Licenses:

No additional certification/professional licenses unless stated elsewhere in the job posting.

Work Experience:

No additional work experience unless stated elsewhere in the job posting.

Skills:

Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA), Document Research, Immunoblots, Laboratory Processes, Mouse Dissection, Mouse Handling, Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR), Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT PCR), Scientific Research

Grade

R07-H

Salary Range

$ $29.09 / HourlyThe salary range reflects base salaries paid for positions in a given job grade across the University. Individual rates within the range will be determined by factors including one's qualifications and performance, equity with others in the department, market rates for positions within the same grade and department budget.

Questions

For frequently asked questions about the application process, please refer to our External Applicant FAQ.

Accommodation

If you are unable to use our online application system and would like an accommodation, please email or call the dedicated accommodation inquiry number at and leave a voicemail with the nature of your request.

All qualified individuals must be able to perform the essential functions of the position satisfactorily and, if requested, reasonable accommodations will be made to enable employees with disabilities to perform the essential functions of their job, absent undue hardship.

Pre-Employment Screening

All external candidates receiving an offer for employment will be required to submit to pre-employment screening for this position. The screenings will include criminal background check and, as applicable for the position, other background checks, drug screen, an employment and education or licensure/certification verification, physical examination, certain vaccinations and/or governmental registry checks. All offers are contingent upon successful completion of required screening.

Benefits Statement

Personal

• Up to 22 days of vacation, 10 recognized holidays, and sick time.
• Competitive health insurance packages with priority appointments and lower copays/coinsurance.
• Take advantage of our free Metro transit U-Pass for eligible employees.
• WashU provides eligible employees with a defined contribution (403(b)) Retirement Savings Plan, which combines employee contributions and university contributions starting at 7%.

Wellness

• Wellness challenges, annual health screenings, mental health resources, mindfulness programs and courses, employee assistance program (EAP), financial resources, access to dietitians, and more

Family

• We offer 4 weeks of caregiver leave to bond with your new child. Family care resources are also available for your continued childcare needs. Need adult care? We've got you covered.
• WashU covers the cost of tuition for you and your family, including dependent undergraduate-level college tuition up to 100% at WashU and 40% elsewhere after seven years with us.

For policies, detailed benefits, and eligibility, please visit:

EEO Statement

Washington University in St. Louis is committed to the principles and practices of equal employment opportunity and especially encourages applications by those from underrepresented groups. It is the University's policy to provide equal opportunity and access to persons in all job titles without regard to race, ethnicity, color, national origin, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.Washington University is dedicated to building a community of individuals who are committed to contributing to an inclusive environment – fostering respect for all and welcoming individuals from diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives. Individuals with a commitment to these values are encouraged to apply.

---