Research assistant in designing pluripotent stem cell derived neural models

Job Title: Research assistant in designing pluripotent stem cell derived neural models

Job Number: 64642

Location: Philadelphia, US

Job Description

The Akizu lab is seeking a research assistant to help us create novel human pluripotent stem cell models (hPSC) of neurological diseases. The successful candidate will contribute to gene editing and genome engineering of hPSCs, using crispr, lentiviral transduction or transposon systems, and to differentiate hPSCs to neurons and brain organoids. After initial training, the research assistant is expected to perform protocols independently with minimal guidance and accuracy, and to be proactive contributing to method development and validation.

The Akizu lab has a broad interest in uncovering mechanisms and treatments for neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders caused by genetics and epigenetics dysregulation. The lab is part of the Raymond G. Perelman Center for Cellular and Molecular Therapeutics (CCMT) in the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) and the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania (UPenn). The job offers a wonderful opportunity to work in a collaborative and inspiring environment, and multiple career development training opportunities that will ensure a successful future in academia, industry or other scientific jobs. We have experience supporting the transition of former research assistants to industry, medical and graduate programs.

REQUIREMENTS:

Bachelor’s Degree recently granted with a major in biology, chemistry, biochemistry or related field. Excellent communication and organization skills. Hands-on experience with human pluripotent stem cell and neuron culturing and/or CRISPR editing will be preferred. Experience with cell cultures, DNA/RNA extraction, molecular cloning, protein extraction, western blotting, immunofluorescence imaging and cytometry will be a plus. Self-motivation, and a keen interest in learning new techniques will be a must!

JOB SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES:

1.     Maintaining, CRISPR editing, and organoid and neuronal differentiation of human pluripotent stem cells.

2.     Perform routine calculations and prepare cell culture stock reagents.

3.     Maintains appropriate log books and lab notebooks.

4.     Performs and assists in the planning of procedures on experimental samples as directed and with certain degree of independence.

Interested individuals, email your CV and the contact information of two references to Naiara Akizu at [Please click the Apply button for the link or email]

Application Deadline: 2023-09-30