Position Summary:

The University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) is seeking a highly motivated Researcher Associate to join our multi-disciplinary team in the Chromosome Biology Laboratory. This role will perform an important task of the research group that investigates the function of repetitive areas of the human genome. The group has a special interest in molecular biology, cytogenetics and genomics of centromeres and telomeres. Special preference will be given to researchers with experience in molecular biology and microscopy.

Our laboratory is investigating the structure and evolution of centromere sequences, the epigenetic interactions of chromatin factors that modulate centromere function on centromere sequences, and the role these elements play in chromosome segregation and genome instability in non-disjunction disorders, cancers, and fibrosis.

This position role performs tests and procedures, sets up and operates equipment, collects and stores data, and perform analysis in a molecular biology lab setting. This position performs techniques in molecular biology like PCR, RT-PCR, Real Time PCR, DNA, RNA and protein purification, western blotting, ELISA, sequencing, cell culture, transfection, functional studies, cloning, and fluorescent microscopy, and preparing buffer and solutions. Performs sample preparation, runs assays, cell/tissue culture. Performs maintenance of lab equipment and supplies, and other duties as assigned.

As a Researcher Associate, this intermediate-level position will require you to independently conduct more complex studies and analyses, contributing to the advancement of research projects. With greater autonomy, you will design experiments, interpret data, and collaborate with senior researchers to develop and refine research protocols. Your role may also include mentoring junior staff and ensuring compliance with safety and regulatory standards. Depending on the research focus, this position may involve research participant contact, research animal contact, and/or specimens.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Performs tests and procedures, sets up and operates equipment, collects and stores data, and perform analysis in a molecular biology lab setting.
• This position performs techniques in molecular biology like PCR, RT-PCR, Real Time PCR, DNA, RNA and protein purification, western blotting, ELISA, sequencing, cell culture, transfection, functional studies, cloning, and fluorescent microscopy, and preparing buffer and solutions
• Performs sample preparation, runs assays, cell/tissue culture
• Performs maintenance of lab equipment and supplies
• Perform other duties as assigned

Salary Range: $19.80 - $32.15

Bachelor's degree in a related field OR Associate's degree in a related field and two (2) years of related experience OR High School diploma or GED and four (4) years of related experience required. Work experience may NOT substitute for education requirement.

Preferred:

• Ability to work independently with minimal oversight from PI
• Demonstrated excellent writing, communication, and computer skills
• Demonstrated excellent interpersonal relations with other lab personnel
• Organizational skills, data, and inventory management
• General research lab experience for 6 years
• Previous work with molecular biology techniques
• Fluorescent and Brightfield Microscopy
• Tissue culture
• Experience in cytogenetics
• Experience in Next Generation Sequencing