SP - Research Assistant 1 University of Connecticut - 4.2 Farmington, CT Job Details Temporary $22 an hour 9 hours ago Qualifications Design of experiments Math Bachelor's degree Implementing research protocols Research data analysis Full Job Description Why UConn Health UConn Health is a vibrant, integrated academic medical center that is entering an era of unprecedented growth in all three areas of its mission: academics, research, and clinical care. A commitment to human health and well-being has been of utmost importance to UConn Health since the founding of the University of Connecticut schools of Medicine and Dental Medicine in 1961. Based on a strong foundation of groundbreaking research, first-rate education, and quality clinical care, we have expanded our medical missions over the decades. In just over 50 years, UConn Health has evolved to encompass more research endeavors, to provide more ways to access our superior care, and to innovate both practical medicine and our methods of educating the practitioners of tomorrow. The Department of Medicine in the School of Medicine is seeking applications for one (1) Special Payroll Research Assistant to work in a lab that specializes in spirochete research with a strong emphasis on bacterial gene regulation. This position is 24hrs with up to 32 hours when needed per week for approximately 12 months.

PURPOSE OF CLASS

At the UCHC this class is accountable for performing the basic laboratory and/or related support tasks for assigned research projects/programs or segments of programs/projects.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED

Works under the close supervision of an employee of higher grade; works more independently with acquired experience

SUPERVISION EXERCISED

May lead paraprofessional clerical or other lower ranking employees as assigned.

EXAMPLES OF DUTIES

Prepare simple to moderately complex buffers and reagents, including performing chemical calculations and adjusting pH according to prescribed protocols with minimal supervision; and prepare liquid and semi-solid microbiological media using aseptic technique. Purify DNA and RNA from bacterial culture and/or animal tissues according to prescribed protocols with moderate supervision. Perform recombinant cloning using simple techniques, including ligation-independent cloning; prepare DNA for Sanger sequencing; transform chemically competent E. coli and Borrelia burgdorferi; analyze bacterial transformants by PCR amplification; and prepare samples for Sanger sequencing. Express recombinant proteins in E. coli; purify recombinant proteins using affinity and size-exclusion chromatography; and analyze bacterial cell lysates and recombinant proteins by SDS-PAGE and immunoblotting according to prescribed protocols with minimal to moderate supervision. Handle Borrelia burgdorferi cultures using aseptic technique; examine and enumerate B. burgdorferi cultures using darkfield microscopy according to prescribed techniques; prepare liquid cultures and solid agar plates of bacterial samples; and prepare bacterial specimens for analysis using simple techniques according to prescribed protocols. Handling and maintenance of small animals (rodents); perform simple procedures on animals, including needle inoculation and collection of serum for analysis using prescribed protocols under moderate supervision. Maintain Ixodes tick colony and perform tick feeding and infection experiments. Maintain data in laboratory notebooks and other research-related records. Work with laboratory personnel to maintain inventory and restock supplies; maintain laboratory equipment; and ensure cleanliness of laboratory workspaces.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILL AND ABILITY

Basic knowledge of research protocols, principles and procedures; basic knowledge of scientific techniques such as tissue culturing, reagent/solution preparation, staining, etc.; basic knowledge of experimental design, mathematics, statistics, computer applications, laboratory equipment and procedures; basic knowledge of a science such as; chemistry, biology, microbiology, pharmacology; basic knowledge of physical and data resources in application scientific disciplines; oral and written communication skills; ability to identify, produce, organize, analyze, evaluate and interpret data.

EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING

General Experience:

Bachelors degree in an appropriate discipline, i.e., Biology, Medical Technology, Biochemistry, Psychology. Degrees in other areas may be substituted on a case by case basis.

PREFFERED QUALIFICATIONS

Prior experience handling BSL-1 or BSL-2 organisms and/or animal models is preferred. Working knowledge of computer software (OneDrive, MS Word, Excel, & PowerPoint;

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

One (1) year's experience in related laboratory work Incumbents in this class may be required to undergo periodic tests or immunizations for communicable diseases.

Working Conditions:

Incumbents in this class may occasionally be required to lift standard laboratory equipment and/or supplies; may be exposed to some risk of injury from such elements as animal allergens, toxic vapors and toxic and/or disease carrying substances; may be exposed to moderately disagreeable conditions.

SCHEDULE

Up to 32 hours per week. Monday - Friday(Varying Days). 9:00 am - 5:30 pm with a 30-minute unpaid meal break. Some weekends may be required. This is a temporary position and is not benefit eligible. Anticipated start date is September 18, 2026. The duration of this appointment will be until September 17, 2027, and may be less or continued based on need. Due to the special nature of this position, continuous employment cannot be guaranteed. The hourly rate for this position is $22.00. This position is not eligible for benefits