Lab Manager

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JOB DESCRIPTION SUMMARY

JOB DESCRIPTION

Responsibilities:

• The ideal candidate for this position is an experienced laboratory assistant and manager, with extensive cell culture experience.
• The lab manager will perform experiments in mammalian cells related to the dynamics of RNA-protein interactions under conditions of cellular stress.
• Research duties will include: executing experimental protocols as directed by the Principal Investigator (Dr. Farny), developing and troubleshooting new protocols as required by the project goals, maintaining accurate and detailed laboratory records, performing data analysis and visualization, participating in writing manuscripts, and presenting research at conferences.
• The lab manager will be primarily responsible for the organization and general operations of the lab, including but not limited to reagent and media preparation, supply ordering, laboratory organization, maintenance of cell lines and stocks, and direct supervision of undergraduate laboratory assistants.

About the Farny Lab:

The Farny Lab at WPI uses synthetic biology and genetic engineering approaches to understand and remediate the biological effects of environmental contaminants. The Farny lab is a dynamic and welcoming environment, where all members are encouraged to participate in the scientific process and pursue career development opportunities, including workshops, conferences, and seminars.

• We study the cellular effects of contaminant exposures such as heavy metals, organics, and plastics.
• We also build engineered cells for sensing and remediating contaminants in the environment.
• We utilize a broad variety of model systems, including bacteria (E. coli, P. putida, and others), cultured mammalian cells (HeLa, 293, U2OS), and C. elegans.
• We integrate both experimental and computational approaches to address critical biological questions about the effects of contaminants on living systems.

WPI is a selective private university dedicated to science and engineering. The Farny lab is located in WPI’s Life Sciences and Bioengineering Center, a modern state-of-the-art research facility conducive to collaborative and interdisciplinary research.

Required Minimum Qualifications:

• A bachelor’s degree in biology, biochemistry, molecular biology, or related field.
• A minimum of two years of research experience (undergraduate research included).
• Experience with mammalian cell culture (culturing, passaging, counting, and plating).
• Experience with basic microbiology and molecular biology techniques, including agarose gel electrophoresis, polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, nucleic acid (DNA and RNA) extractions, enzymatic reactions, molecular cloning, bacterial culture and transformation, and media preparation.
• Exceptional organizational and record-keeping skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively and provide training and support to students at all stages from undergraduate to PhD.

Preferred Qualifications:

• A bachelor’s degree with 3-5 years of research experience, or a master’s degree with 3+ years of research experience (undergraduate research experience included).
• Experience with the following assays and techniques:
  • Advanced fixed-cell and live-cell fluorescence microscopy
  • Cell line development and gene expression (transfections, stable cell lines, CRISPR)
  • Generating samples for advanced -omics studies (RNA-seq, genome sequencing, or proteomic analysis)
  • Development and execution of high-throughput assays (e.g., multi-well plate assays, automated workflows, screens)
  • Advanced spectroscopy and analytical techniques (circular dichroism spectroscopy, isothermal titration calorimetry, UV/Vis spectrometry, fluorescence spectrometry and/or HPLC/UHPLC)

To Apply:

Please include a cover letter, CV, and list of 3 professional references. Professional references must include at least one reference that can speak directly to the candidate's laboratory skill and experience.

Compensation:

Salary: $55,000 - $65,000 per year. Salary is based on related experience, expertise, and internal equity. This position is externally funded and contingent upon the availability of external funding.

WPI’s benefits package includes a robust retirement match, wellness perks, tuition assistance and more!

FLSA STATUS

WPI is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or disability. It seeks individuals from all backgrounds and experiences who will contribute to a culture of creativity, collaboration, inclusion, problem solving, innovation, high performance, and change making. It is committed to maintaining a campus environment free of harassment and discrimination.