HudsonAlpha - Research Associate II - Cochran Lab

INSTITUTE OVERVIEW

The HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology (hudsonalpha.org) is a non-profit organization with the mission to use biotechnology and basic scientific research to make important discoveries, improve human health, stimulate economic development, inspire young people to seek careers in science, and teach members of the public the importance of science in their everyday lives. Located in Cummings Research Park in Huntsville, Alabama, one of the world's leading science and technology parks, HudsonAlpha's campus contains state-of-the-art laboratories for biological research and development, as well as education, in the areas of genomics, genetics, and personalized medicine.

DEPARTMENT OVERVIEW

The J. Nicholas Cochran laboratory uses genomic approaches to answer genomic questions relevant to neuroscience. We focus on neurodegenerative diseases, with an emphasis on Alzheimer's disease and other dementias, though other projects related to neuropsychiatric diseases, such as bipolar disorder, and basic science projects on the function of the genome in the brain are also of interest. Therefore, while not required, subject area familiarity and/or interest in genetics, genomics, neuroscience, neuropsychiatric diseases, and/or neurodegenerative diseases is desirable. Project areas include the study of gene regulation for genes implicated in disease, novel analysis approaches for associating genetic variation with disease, genome-wide approaches relevant to disease, and genome function in the brain more broadly.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Research Associate II serves in a dual role supporting the laboratory's research mission. This position carries out research protocols as determined by the Principal Investigator while simultaneously coordinating the daily operations of the laboratory. The individual in this role ensures both the scientific integrity of research outcomes and the efficient functioning of laboratory facilities, creating an environment conducive to high-quality research.

The Research Associate must understand laboratory procedures and safety. In addition to a general understanding of the research project's overall objectives, the Research Associate II must understand the tactical methodology outlined by the Sr. Scientist during supervision. The Research Associate II communicates progress and advises on any issues that arise. The Research Associate II will allocate 60-70% of their time to research activities, with the remaining time to laboratory coordination.

Research Associates may work directly with materials or with data.

JOB-SPECIFIC TASKS

Research Responsibilities (70% of time)

• Execute hands-on laboratory work and research assignments according to protocols established by the lead investigator
• Work directly with materials and/or data as assigned by the project
• Follow procedures exactly as outlined, ensuring consistency of research practices and integrity of project outcomes
• Provide feedback in the case that procedures are not producing expected results
• Immediately review initial outcomes for quality and consistency
• Maintain an accurate and up-to-date laboratory notebook or track work as required by the project or supervisor
• Perform mammalian cell culture and/or molecular cloning procedures (position will periodically require limited weekend hours)
• Adapt to modifications in protocol, changes in equipment, upgrades in software, and adjustments to research project scope
• Communicate research progress regularly and advise supervisors of any issues that arise

Laboratory Coordination Responsibilities (30% of time)

• Coordinate management of laboratory material stocking, inventory, and procurement
• Order reagents and supplies, maintaining adequate inventory levels to support ongoing research
• Maintain relations with external vendors and collaborators, including sample shipment and data exchange, as assigned
• Handle incoming shipments and packages
• Organize and maintain reagent storage systems
• Troubleshoot basic equipment problems (PCR machine, gel electrophoresis, tabletop centrifuge, etc.)
• Support laboratory safety compliance and ensure adherence to proper laboratory procedures
• Train and assist new laboratory members in laboratory safety and basic molecular techniques
• Coordinate basic laboratory infrastructure needs

EDUCATION AND REQUIRED SKILLS EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor's degree in a "STEM" field + 2-3 years of relevant laboratory experience or Master's degree in a "STEM" field with demonstrated laboratory competency
• Meticulous attention to detail, both in actual laboratory practice and in documentation
• Excellent laboratory skills, including proficiency in pipetting, documentation, and procedure (clinical, sterile, or molecular, depending on the needs of the laboratory)
• Meticulous attention to detail, both in actual laboratory practice and in documentation
• Excellent laboratory skills, including proficiency in pipetting, documentation, and procedure (clinical, sterile, or molecular, depending on the needs of the laboratory)
• Ability to accurately convert measurements as required
• Ability to understand protocols, clarify as needed, and perform protocols with consistency, as demonstrated through previous laboratory experience
• Ability to operate basic equipment (PCR machine, gel electrophoresis, tabletop centrifuge, etc.) and troubleshoot basic problems
• While not required, experience with mammalian cell culture is preferred
• Experience with Google Workspace (Gmail, Sheets, Docs)