Research Assistant - Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Medicine

• The Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Medicine at West Virginia University is currently accepting applications for a Research Assistant position. About the Opportunity We are seeking a motivated research technician to join Dr. Rong Liu’s laboratory, located within the Health Science Center at West Virginia University in Morgantown, WV. Our research focuses on investigating the functions of molecular motor proteins in visual and auditory mechanisms. Our lab uses a combination of in vitro reconstitution, single-molecule biophysics, quantitative imaging, and cell biological approaches to pursue these questions. The successful candidate will conduct independent research and collaborate within the team as well as with other scientists in the field. The individual will also receive dedicated mentorship to support their transition to the next stage of their scientific career. The salary for this position is competitive and commensurate with experience. We strongly believe in work-life balance and keeping time for things we love outside our work. WVU offers generous benefits, including:
• 37.5-hour work week
• 13 paid holidays (staff holiday calendar)
• 15 annual leave (vacation) days per year (employee leave)
• 18 sick days per year (for when you’re ill, for when you need time to care for sick family, for your own, or your family’s, regularly scheduled medical appointments. Who is family for the purpose of this leave? A lot of people in your life including immediate relatives and in-laws as well as others considered to be members of your household living under the same roof)
• WVU offers a range of health insurance and other benefits
• 401(a) retirement savings with 6%25 employee contribution match, eligibility to continue health insurance, and other retiree perks. Looking for more retirement benefits information? Check out retirement health insurance benefits, retirement income, and FAQ’s.
• Wellness programs

What You'll Do Molecular cloning and generating plasmids for expressing proteins in cells Eukaryotic cell based protein expression and purification Mammalian cell culture and confocal microscopy Collaborating with team members to interpret data, generate hypotheses, and design follow-up experiments Mentoring students and junior lab members Presenting research findings at lab meetings and national conferences Overall maintenance of laboratory as a part of the team Pay Grade: 15

Bachelors in life sciences or related field. A minimum of 0-6 months of lab research experience including molecular cloning and protein purification. Any equivalent combination of related education and/or experience will be considered. All qualifications must be met by the time of employment.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Knowledge of laboratory environment and appropriate procedures Knowledge in general cell biology and molecular techniques Ability to prepare reagents Ability to use Microsoft office and other related lab software/applications Skilled at using general laboratory equipment Good organization skills and self-motivation Willingness and ability to learn new protocols/procedures in a rapid manner Ability to get along with others in a group setting