POSITION SUMMARY: 

The goal of the Thyme lab is to understand and develop treatments for intellectual disability. Experimental responsibilities could include the following techniques: molecular biology (PCR, cloning), biochemistry (protein purification), bacterial directed evolution, zebrafish genome-editing, zebrafish line maintenance, antibody staining, RNA in situ analysis, high-resolution imaging, high-throughput larval behavior, adult behavior, cell culture maintenance, drug screens, and transcriptomics (bulk and single-cell RNA-seq). Current and future projects include a study of genes implicated in Down syndrome, a screen of FDA-approved molecules to find modulators of neurodevelopment, and a molecular tool-building project to improve the throughput of drug discovery in an intact brain. See our funded grants at NIH RePORTER, publications, and thymelab.org for additional information. Responsibilities will include collecting, organizing, and reporting research data under minimal supervision; assisting in the design of experiments; maintaining laboratory supplies and equipment; instructing others in basic laboratory techniques; collecting and summarizing data; monitoring results; reporting unusual outcomes.

Candidates qualified for a higher RA level are welcome to apply or reach out directly.

Applicants should send their CV, a summary of any previous research, and the name of two references to Dr. Summer Thyme, e-mail: Summer.Thyme@umassmed.edu Under the direction of the Principal Investigator (PI) or designee, the Research Associate I provides operational support to the laboratory. The Research Associate I will perform research experiments as defined by the PI.

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ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Perform laboratory experiments and may be responsible for a single research project
• Utilize all software relevant to experiment and equipment used
• Interpret data, form conclusions and decide on next steps under the direction of the PI or designee
• Maintain accurate records, may modify protocols with the approval of the PI or designee
• Review literature, publications and grants relevant to assigned projects
• Record results according to established lab, sponsor & university protocol
• Assist with performing data analysis and/or mathematical computations
• Maintain a detailed lab notebook according to lab practice
• Present findings at lab/group meetings
• Monitor laboratory supply levels and order as noted
• Prepare and label buffers, media, solutions, etc.
• Assist with and comply with all safety regulation and infection control standards
• Train on IACUC, IRB, EHS, Radiation safety protocols
• Comply with all applicable state, federal university, and sponsor policies and agreements
• Provide support with identifying problems and challenges, propose resolutions, implement appropriate solutions
• Provide support with drafting standard operation procedures in compliance to EHS regulation specific for the lab
• Perform other duties as required

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REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in Biological or Natural Science, or equivalent experience
• Basic understanding of lab safety and protocols
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office products
• Ability to analyze data in a quantitative and objective manner.
• Ability to work in a team environment

SUPERVISION RECEIVED:

Under the general direction of the Principal Investigator or designee _____________________________________________________________________________________________________

SUPERVISION EXERCISED:

None

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ENVIRONMENTAL WORKING CONDITIONS:

Wet chemistry laboratory, and may require appropriate contact with biohazards, radionuclides, toxins, animals, and human specimens. 

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As an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer, UMMS recognizes the power of a diverse community and encourages applications from individuals with varied experiences, perspectives and backgrounds.