Research Assistant, Pharmacology

Vanderbilt University

  • Nashville, TN
  • Permanent
  • Full-time
  • 1 month ago
Job Description:The Department of Pharmacology is one of the most distinguished Pharmacology departments in the country. Research interests include seven major areas: signal transduction mechanisms, neuronal communication and synaptic signaling, bioactive lipids, molecular basis of neuropsychiatric disorders, structural biology, drug discovery, and cancer biology. For information about research in the laboratory visit https://www.cigliola-lab.com.The Cigliola Laboratory invites applications for a Research Assistant position. Our lab is dedicated to identifying novel strategies for reversing paralysis after spinal cord injury. We deploy frontline genetics, transcriptomics, in vivo cellular, molecular, and behavioral approaches in zebrafish and mouse models to uncover innate mechanisms of spinal cord regeneration. We are located within the Pharmacology Department and are members of the Vanderbilt Brain Institute.The position is a combination of science and administrative responsibilities. The candidate will play a crucial role in supporting research endeavors by conducting a variety of experimental procedures. S/He will also be required to manage administrative duties such as contributing to placing orders and keeping inventory.We are looking for highly motivated and ambitious candidates with interest for regenerative biology and neuroscience. Enthusiasm for working with animals is essential. Specialized training will be provided. The candidate will have the opportunity to figure as co-author on published manuscripts.Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Conduct experiments and assays.
  • Record, compile, interpret and communicate data.
  • Zebrafish colony maintenance (genotyping, breeding, husbandry).
  • Generation of mutant and transgenic zebrafish lines by microinjection.
  • Spinal cord surgeries and behavioral assays in zebrafish.
  • Molecular cloning and histology (cryostats, immunohistochemistry, microscopy).
  • Ordering and preparation of laboratory reagents.
  • Assistance with maintaining equipment and lab inventories.
  • Assistance with compliance for Vanderbilt safety and IACUC policies.
  • Participation to weekly group laboratory meetings.
Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Neuroscience, Biology or related field and at least 2-years of experience in a research lab.
  • Previous experience in working with zebrafish and/or mouse models is required.
  • Previous experience at Vanderbilt University is preferred.
  • Organizational and troubleshooting skills, attention to details, excellent work ethics.
  • Motivation to learn, ability to pick up new techniques promptly and conduct literature search if needed is required.
  • Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in an efficient, focused, and timely manner.
  • Knowledge of Microsoft Office programs and computer skills.
Commitment to Equity, Diversity, and InclusionAt Vanderbilt University, we are intentional about and assume accountability for fostering advancement and respect for equity, diversity, and inclusion for all students, faculty, and staff. Our commitment to diversity makes us who we are. We have created a community that celebrates differences and lets individuality thrive. As part of this commitment, we actively value diversity in our workplace and learning environments as we seek to take advantage of the rich backgrounds and abilities of everyone. The diverse voices of Vanderbilt represent an invaluable resource for the University in its efforts to fulfill its mission and strive to be an example of excellence in higher education.Vanderbilt University is an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran, or any other characteristic protected by law.Please note, all candidates selected for an offer of employment are subject to pre-employment background checks, which may include but are not limited to, based on the role for which they have been selected: criminal history, education verification, social media review, motor vehicle records, credit history, and professional license verification.About Us: Vanderbilt is a community of talented and diverse staff & faculty!At , our work - regardless of title or role - is in service to an important and noble mission in which every member of our community serves in advancing knowledge and transforming lives on a daily basis. Located in , Tennessee, on a 330+ acre campus and dating back to 1873, Vanderbilt is proud to have been named as one of “America's Best Large Employers” as well as a top employer in Tennessee and the Nashville metropolitan area by Forbes for several years running. We welcome those who are interested in learning and growing professionally with an employer that strives to create, foster and sustain opportunities as an employer of choice through:
  • Working and growing together as a community of communities... we are One Vanderbilt.
  • Providing a work environment where every staff and faculty member can be their authentic and best self, while providing the resources and opportunities to learn and grow.
  • Encouraging development, collaboration, and partnership both internally and externally while fostering the value that every member of the Vanderbilt community can lead and grow regardless of title or position.
We understand you have a choice when choosing where to work and pursue a career. We understand you are unique and have a story. We want to hear it. We encourage you to apply today so that you might become a part of our story.Vanderbilt University has made the health and safety of our students, faculty and staff and our surrounding communities a top priority. As part of that commitment, the University may require employees to comply with any testing or health and safety measures which the University may require.

Vanderbilt University