INSTITUTE OVERVIEW

The HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology (hudsonalpha.org) is a non-profit organization with the mission to use biotechnology and basic scientific research to make important discoveries, improve human health, stimulate economic development, inspire young people to seek careers in science, and teach members of the public the importance of science in their everyday lives. Located in Cummings Research Park in Huntsville, Alabama, one of the world's leading science and technology parks, HudsonAlpha's campus contains state-of-the-art laboratories for biological research and development, as well as education, in the areas of genomics, genetics, and personalized medicine.

DEPARTMENT OVERVIEW

The J. Nicholas Cochran laboratory uses genomic approaches to answer genomic questions relevant to neuroscience. We focus on neurodegenerative diseases, with an emphasis on Alzheimer's disease and other dementias, though other projects related to neuropsychiatric diseases, such as bipolar disorder, and basic science projects on the function of the genome in the brain are also of interest. Therefore, while not required, subject area familiarity and/or interest in genetics, genomics, neuroscience, neuropsychiatric diseases, and/or neurodegenerative diseases is desirable. Project areas include the study of gene regulation for genes implicated in disease, novel analysis approaches for associating genetic variation with disease, genome-wide approaches relevant to disease, and genome function in the brain more broadly.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Research Associate carries out research protocols as determined by the Principal Investigator.  The Associate follows procedures exactly as outlined, ensuring the consistency of research practices and, ultimately, helping ensure the consistency and integrity of project outcomes. The Associate also provides feedback in the case that procedures are not producing as expected.

The Research Associate must understand laboratory procedure and safety. In addition to a general knowledge of the overall objectives of the research project, the Associate must have an understanding of the tactical methodology in particular. The Associate works under the direction of a graduate student, postdoctoral fellow, research assistant with supervisory responsibilities, senior scientist, or the lab Principal Investigator, communicating progress and advising of any issues that arise. The Associate must be able to adapt to modifications in protocol, changes in equipment or upgrades in software, as well as adjustments to the scope of research projects.

Research Associate positions fall among several levels that are generally progressive and reflect increasing proficiency. However, it is not to be expected that a Research Associate will continually promote upward. The assigned level depends on the complexity of actual duties and responsibilities and is not necessarily a reflection of tenure.

Research Associates may work directly with materials or with data.

JOB SPECIFIC TASKS

Research Associate I:

• Entry level with the intent to develop laboratory proficiency
• Hands-on laboratory work, executing research assignments according to protocol established by lead investigator in methodology
• Immediately reviews initial outcomes for quality and consistency
• Maintains an accurate and up-to-date laboratory notebook or tracks work as required by the project or supervisor
• Participates in general lab maintenance such as cleaning freezers, shared lab space and equipment, and stocking shared reagents and consumables
• Other duties as assigned

EDUCATION AND REQUIRED SKILLS EXPERIENCE

• High school diploma and 2 years' experience or associates degree
• Meticulous attention to detail, both in actual laboratory practice and in documentation
• Excellent laboratory skills, including proficiency in pipetting, documentation, and procedure (clinical, sterile, or molecular, depending on the needs of the laboratory)
• Ability to accurately convert measurements as required
• Ability to understand protocols, clarify as needed, and perform protocols with consistency, as demonstrated through previous laboratory experience
• Ability to operate basic equipment (PCR machine, gel electrophoresis, tabletop centrifuge, etc.) and troubleshoot basic problems

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS

The physical requirements and environmental conditions of this position consist primarily of:

• Sustained standing and sitting
• Frequent walking and moving between work areas
• Ability to occasionally lift up to 30 pounds
• Continuous mental and visual attention, requiring sustained attention and observation
• Excellent fine motor skills and hand control in order to pipette accurately
• Ability to sustain focus during research procedures (to maintain protocol such as order of operations,
• Ability to visually observe results and record outcomes on lab logs and/or PC