Assistant Research Specialist

The Organization

As an independent research organization, the Morgridge Institute for Research explores uncharted scientific territory to discover tomorrow’s cures. In affiliation with the University of Wisconsin-Madison, we support researchers who take a fearless approach to advancing human health in emerging fields such as virology, advanced multi-scale fluorescence and electron microscopy, metabolism and regenerative biology. Through public programming, we work to inspire scientific curiosity in everyday life.

The Opportunity:

The Morgridge Institute for Research seeks an assistant research specialist, preferably with prior experience in a laboratory research setting.

The Poss group and the Sun groups utilize zebrafish, and, occasionally, mice as model systems to study regeneration of heart muscle and the crosstalk between organ systems during heart regeneration. The primary focus of this position is regeneration research with duties involving (but not limited to) molecular biology, histology, surgeries, explant culture, imaging, microinjection, and imaging and analysis, with opportunities for co-authorships on published manuscripts. There also will be some animal husbandry and general lab responsibilities. Training will be provided directly by the leader of the group. We welcome ambitious applicants with enthusiasm for regenerative biology and enthusiasm for working with research zebrafish.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Performing molecular biology, including making DNA constructs
• Generating mutant or transgenic zebrafish by microinjection/li>
• Breeding, some husbandry, and genotyping of zebrafish
• Preparing chemicals, reagents, and solutions for general laboratory use
• Operating laboratory equipment required for specific assays
• Reviewing laboratory methods manuals, scientific journals, abstracts, and other literature for information applicable to research experiments
• Assisting in training new personnel
• Obtain, prepare, mount, and stain tissue for microscopic examination.
• Data collection and imaging from experimental samples
• Compiling, analyzing, and documenting results from experimental data, and drawing conclusions from experimental results
• Additional miscellaneous duties as required

Requirements:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each primary duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the primary duties.

Education and Experience:

• Minimum bachelor’s degree in botany, biology, zoology, psychology or other directly related scientific field
• 2 years of post-bachelor experience in a laboratory research setting is strongly preferred

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required:

• Strong background in biology and engineering
• Training in zebrafish work, molecular biology, and imaging will be provided
• Must have the ability to work both independently and part of a dynamic research team
• Strong written and oral communication skills are essential
• Must have strong organization skills and attention to detail

Working Conditions and Physical Effort:

• Standing for long periods of time is required
• Work is normally performed in a wet laboratory environment
• No or very limited physical effort is required
• No or very limited exposure to physical risk
• Occasional evening and weekend work