Lab Technician

This position will assist Dr. Ezequiel Salido, an assistant professor in the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences. The laboratory is also part of the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine at the Health Science Center, WVU. Our laboratory is located at the Erma Byrd Biomedical Research Center building.

The research at SalidoLab focuses on understanding the synthesis and functions of the neuronal extracellular matrix (ECM). Specifically, the lab examines the ECM surrounding the photoreceptors in the retina and its involvement in various vision-related diseases. The lab conducts experiments using Crips-cas9 animal models with mutations on ECM genes associated with human diseases. Our routine experiments include Immunohistochemistry, western blot, PCR, electroretinogram, non-invasive in-vivo imaging of the mice retina, electron microscopy, super-resolution microscopy, protein expression in cell culture and mice, AAV-based gene therapy, and multi-omics techniques. We also use biochemistry techniques to study protein interactions and post-translational modifications. For more details about Salido Lab research, please visit our lab webpage (https://salidolab.com/).

The newly hired person will join a team of vision researchers working to uncover the causes of blindness and use that information to develop innovative treatments for vision loss in humans. You will actively participate in the ongoing lab research, providing you with a unique opportunity for growth and learning in the field of vision research.

For more information and formal application : https://wvu.taleo.net/careersection/wvu_research/jobdetail.ftl?job=25098&tz=GMT-04:00&tzname=America/New_York

This position has a base salary between $30.000 and $33.000 depending on experience. A 10% increase in salary per year is projected.

REQUISITE QUALIFICATIONS

Bachelor in life sciences or equivalent

Experience

Experience in a research lab is desired. Relevant experience in biological research laboratory settings or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

GENERAL DUTIES (10% time)

- Maintain lab organization, including ordering and stocking chemicals and maintaining inventories.

- Set up, calibrate, and maintain laboratory equipment.

- Troubleshoot equipment issues.

- Prepare reagents and assist in experiments as needed.

PRINCIPAL TASKS and EXPERIMENTS (90% time)

- Maintain and genotype mice colonies (by PCR and sequencing).

- Dissect of ocular tissues for experimentation.

- Western Blot protein analysis.

- Immunohistochemistry on cryosectioned retina and confocal microscopy.

- Performing electroretinography analysis on anesthetized mice.

- Bacteria and human cell culture and protein expression.

- Spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) in mice

ALTERNATIVE EXPERIMENTS

- Intraocular injections for gene therapy studies

- Electron microscopy / Immunoelectromicroscopy

- Super-resolution microscopy (STORM)

REQUIREMENTS

- Document and analyze research data.

- Effective and clear communication of research findings with the team is crucial.

- Engage in collaborative and independent work within the research team.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

· Manual Dexterity: This position requires fine motor skills for operating various laboratory equipment, including stereo and compound microscopes, fine tissue dissection tools, micropipettes, and other specialized apparatus. A high degree of precision is necessary when using hand instruments like micropipettes, dissecting tools, and cryostats.

· Equipment Proficiency: Extensive use of essential lab equipment such as centrifuges, autoclaves, ultrasound devices, and other specialized apparatus.

· Physical Activity: The role involves a combination of sitting, walking, standing, bending, and occasional lifting or moving of equipment and machinery.

· Animal Handling: Routine responsibilities include handling and transporting mice to and from the animal facility. This task may require walking moderate distances, using stairs or elevators, and adhering to specific procedural and safety protocols.

· Tissue Handling: Comfort and skill in handling ocular tissues are essential, reflecting the focus of our research on eye-related studies.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

· Laboratory Settings: The majority of tasks will be carried out in a standard laboratory environment. Additional settings include:

· Cold Room: Essential for specific experiments where temperature control is critical.

· Darkroom: Under dim red light, the dark room is used to perform electroretinography on anesthetized mice.

· Chemical Exposure: Regular use of chemicals that may emit odors or toxic fumes. Proper ventilation and safety measures are in place to ensure a safe working environment.

· Biological Materials: Frequent handling of murine eye tissues and live animals. Comprehensive safety training and protective gear will be provided to minimize risk and ensure safe handling practices.

· Safety Compliance: Employees are expected to be fully knowledgeable of and comply with all laboratory safety regulations to maintain a secure and efficient working environment.

· Mentorship and Independence: While Dr. Salido and the lab team will provide close mentorship and training, the applicant is also expected to demonstrate the ability to work independently and collaboratively within the research team.

Core Competencies and Professional Conduct Requirements

·

· Solid background in general molecular biology techniques, essential for daily laboratory tasks.

· Ability to operate general laboratory equipment (i.e., pH meter, scales, pipets, centrifuges, etc.) and the willingness and ability to learn new techniques, procedures, or protocols.

· Commitment to continuous learning and skill enhancement, actively seeking training and development opportunities.

· Efficient at gathering and analyzing information to identify and resolve problems.

· Responsive to management direction, adheres to work schedules, and manages leave responsibly, ensuring consistent productivity and team coherence.

Team Collaboration and Workplace Culture:

· Positive Lab Environment: We are committed to fostering a collaborative and supportive lab environment where all team members are valued and respected. A good lab mate is someone who contributes positively to the communal lab culture, offering help and encouragement to colleagues.

· Nondiscrimination and Inclusion: Our lab is committed to maintaining a diverse and inclusive workplace. We firmly oppose any form of discrimination based on race, gender, age, sexual orientation, religion, or disability. Respect and fairness are expected of all team members in every interaction within the lab.

· Teamwork: Effective teamwork is the cornerstone of our success. We seek individuals who thrive in team settings and are adept at working collaboratively on complex projects. The ability to openly share knowledge, discuss ideas, and adapt to group needs is crucial.

· Passion for Science: We value curiosity and enthusiasm for scientific discovery. Candidates should possess a genuine interest in vision research and a drive to contribute to groundbreaking work that can significantly impact the field and improve patient outcomes.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $29,000.00 - $33,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• Monday to Friday

Work Location: In person

Salary : $29,000 - $33,000