Research Assistant
Southern Methodist University Inc

Description

Hourly Range:

$21.12 per hour

About SMU

SMU's more than 12,000 diverse, high-achieving students come from all 50 states and 80 countries to take advantage of the University's small classes, hands-on research opportunities, leadership development, community service, international study and innovative programs. The University offers a strong foundation in the humanities and sciences and undergraduate, graduate and professional degree programs through eight schools.

Now in its second century of achievement, SMU is increasingly recognized for the ways it supports students, faculty and alumni as they become ethical leaders in their professions and communities. Now in its second century of achievement, SMU is increasingly recognized for the ways it supports students, faculty and alumni as they become ethical leaders in their professions and communities. The University's entrepreneurial spirit lives in people from every academic discipline who see opportunities to create something new in the world - and work hard to bring their innovations to life. SMU's relationship with Dallas - the dynamic center of one of the nation's fastest-growing regions - offers unique learning, research, social and career opportunities that provide a launch pad for our students, faculty and alumni to make a global impact. On the most beautiful college campus in the country, SMU Mustangs are energized by unbridled opportunities - from teaching, learning and research to creativity, performance and athletic endeavor.

About the Position:

This role is an on-campus, in-person position.

The Research Assistant will contribute technically and conceptually to the Hibshman lab's research goals. The position will support the general functioning of the lab by ordering and organizing supplies, managing databases, and conducting molecular, genetic, and biochemical experiments. This will impact the long-term goals and operations of the department by fostering a productive, collaborative and interactive research environment.

Essential Functions:

• Conduct experiments, document results and methods, and analyze data to contribute to ongoing research projects in the lab.
  
• Provide general laboratory management including preparing and maintaining common stocks of buffers for experimental assays, cleaning and sterilizing laboratory glassware, maintaining and updating laboratory databases, and maintaining inventory and ordering items, and general tidying and cleaning around the lab.
  
• Train and supervise undergraduate research students in routine tasks.
  
• Attend lab meetings, and other staff and departmental meetings and seminars.
  
• Meet weekly with supervisor to discuss research progress and plans.
  

Qualifications

Education and Experience:

A Bachelor's degree with substantial coursework in Biology and/or related subjects and at least one (1) year of experience in a biological research laboratory.

Prior experience with C. elegans, and/or techniques in molecular biology (ex PCR, gel electrophoresis, molecular cloning, etc.) is preferred.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

Candidate must demonstrate strong interpersonal and verbal communication skills, with the ability to communicate broadly across the University and develop and maintain effective relationships with a wide range of constituencies. Must also demonstrate strong written communication skills.

Candidate must possess strong problem-solving skills with the ability to identify and analyze problems, as well as devise solutions. Must also have strong organizational, planning and time management skills.

Candidate must be proficient in Microsoft Excel, Word and Google docs.

Physical and Environmental Demands:

• Sit for long periods of time
• Bend, squat, stand, kneel, climb
• Reach above shoulders
• Carry/lift 25 lbs.

Deadline to Apply:

Priority consideration may be given to submissions received by October 15, 2024.

This position is open until filled.

EEO Statement:

SMU will not discriminate in any program or activity on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, sexual orientation, or gender identity and expression. The Executive Director for Access and Equity/Title IX Coordinator is designated to handle inquiries regarding nondiscrimination policies and may be reached at the Perkins Administration Building, Room 204, 6425 Boaz Lane, Dallas, TX 75205, 214-768-3601, accessequity@smu.edu.

Benefits:

SMU offers staff a broad, competitive array of health and related benefits. In addition to traditional benefits such as health, dental, and vision plans, SMU offers a wide range of wellness programs to help attract, support, and retain our employees whose work continues to make SMU an outstanding education and research institution.

SMU is committed to providing an array of retirement programs that benefit and protect you and your family throughout your working years at SMU and, if you meet SMU's retirement eligibility criteria, during your retirement years after you leave SMU.

The value of learning at SMU isn't just about preparing our students for the future. Employees have access to a wide variety of professional and personal development opportunities, including tuition benefits.

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