The University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), Department of Cell, Developmental, & Integrative Biology is seeking a Researcher I.

General Responsibilities

Under direct supervision:

• To perform various support functions in a research laboratory.
• To maintain equipment, computer database and lab supplies.

Key Duties & Responsibilities

1. Set up and maintain human PSC-derived kidney organoid cultures, ensuring consistency and viability.
2. Perform routine dissociation, freezing, and thawing of PKD mutant cysts.
3. Optimize and refine culturing protocols for uniform cyst growth across various experimental formats, including 96-well and 384-well plates.
4. Conduct EdU incorporation assays to assess cell proliferation rates in cysts.
5. Compare regrown cysts with progenitors, perform bulk transcriptomic analyses, including RNA extraction, library preparation, and sequencing.
6. Execute quantitative RT-PCR and immunofluorescent staining for pathway analysis and validation of gene expression changes.
7. Collect, enter, and summarize experiment data, maintaining detailed and accurate records.
8. Dissection microscopes and image analysis software measure the total cyst area and monitor growth metrics.
9. Conduct nuclear localization studies of YAP and other transcription factors in cystic structures.
10. Prepare and execute high-throughput compound screening assays in a microplate-based culture system.
11. Treat cysts with various compounds, including inhibitors like verteporfin (VP), and monitor cyst growth and pathway activation effects.
12. Coordinate with external collaborators for validation studies, including shipping and receiving organoid samples.
13. Communicate experimental results and progress to the research team during regular lab meetings.
14. Report any unusual outcomes or technical issues encountered during experiments.
15. Maintain lab equipment and ensure cleanliness and organization of the lab space.
16. Monitor lab supplies and reagents inventory and place orders as needed to ensure uninterrupted workflow.
17. Follow all safety protocols and maintain a safe working environment.
18. Contribute to developing and optimizing new protocols for organoid culture, pathway analysis, and compound screening.
19. Troubleshoot and provide solutions for technical challenges encountered in the research process.
20. Prepare detailed experimental protocols, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and technical reports.
21. Assist in preparing manuscripts, grant applications, and presentations by providing experimental data and technical expertise.
22. Perform other duties as assigned.

Hourly Salary Range $15.00 - $19.66

• Associate's degree in a related field
• OR High School diploma or GED and two (2) years of related experience

Work experience may NOT substitute for education requirement.

"UAB is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer committed to fostering a diverse, equitable, and family-friendly environment in which all faculty and staff can excel and achieve work/life balance irrespective of race, national origin, age, genetic or family medical history, gender, faith, gender identity and expression as well as sexual orientation. UAB also encourages applications from individuals with disabilities and veterans."