A Research Assistant II position is available immediately in the laboratory of Dr. Roberto Vanacore to support ongoing research projects studying molecular mechanisms of renal fibrosis in chronic kidney disease. The RAII will work closely with members of the laboratory in performing experiments and will assist the lab manager in doing routine lab maintenance. We use animal models in combination of cutting-edge technologies in proteomics/mass spectrometry, biochemistry and molecular/cell biology to investigate the structure-function relationship of collagen and its modifying enzymes on the biosynthesis, assembly and function of the renal extracellular matrix. Motivated individuals will be given the opportunity work on independent projects. This is an excellent opportunity for those looking to further develop new research skills before applying to PhD program and/or medical School. This position will report administratively and functionally to senior lab personnel and the Principal Investigator.
The Vanacore Lab is housed in the Division of Nephrology and is part of the Vanderbilt Center for Kidney Disease and Center for Matrix Biology.
Duties and Responsibilities
- Prepare general solutions and buffers
- Under supervision set up and perform experiments following established techniques and/or protocols
- Record data, perform data analysis and create graphs/reports
- Effectively communicate experimental results to supervisor and/or laboratory group meetings
- Maintain and subculture of mammalian cell lines and primary cells
- Assist in the collection and preparation of animal samples for mass spectrometry analyses
- Work with lab members in animal colony management including, colony husbandry, breeding, genotyping and sample collection
- Clean and maintain laboratory equipment
- Work effectively with others to accomplish goals and to find solutions to problems
- Assist in maintaining lab compliance with biological and chemical safety protocols
Qualifications
- BS or BA in a related field is required and research laboratory experience
- Ability to follow directions and perform repetitive tasks
- Strong written, oral communication and task management skills are highly desired
- Familiarity with molecular techniques used in biochemistry, molecular biology and/or cell biology such as PCR, qRT-PCR, immunoblotting, immunohistochemistry, fluorescence microscopy, ELISA, SDS-PAGE, HPLC, enzyme assays is preferred
- Prior experience with cell culture procedures and animal models is desired, but not required as training may be provided
How to apply?
Please apply through VUMC HR website or contact Dr Vanacore directly at roberto.vanacore@vumc.org
