Research Associate - Varma Lab at Miami University in Pearson Hall

Job description

Job Title Research Associate - Varma Lab Department Biology Department Worker Type Temporary (Fixed Term) Pay Type Salary Benefit Eligible Yes Job Description Summary The Varma Lab in the Department of Biology at Miami University, Oxford, Ohio, seeks a Research Associate to join a new research program investigating the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying rare neurodevelopmental disorders. Job Description Job Description: Our laboratory uses patient-derived induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) to generate brain organoids that recapitulate key aspects of human brain development. We combine these models with molecular and cellular approaches coupled with single-cell transcriptomic profiling and bioinformatic analysis to understand how disease associated genetic variants perturb developmental gene regulatory programs, alter the specification and maturation of distinct neural cell populations, and ultimately affect neuronal function. The successful candidate will contribute to projects investigating the mechanisms of rare neurodevelopmental disorders and will have the opportunity to play an important role in establishing and developing the Varma Lab. The position is well suited for someone interested in human stem cell models, neurodevelopment, and disease mechanisms who would like to contribute both experimentally and intellectually to a growing research program. Position Duties: Research (70%): Responsibilities will include human iPSC culture and differentiation, neuronal cultures, brain organoids, molecular and cellular biology, imaging, and related approaches. The successful candidate will contribute to experimental design, data collection and analysis, interpretation of results, and preparation of research findings for presentation and publication. Laboratory and Project Management (20%): Assist with establishing and maintaining the Varma Lab. Scientific Communication and Collaboration (5%): Participate in laboratory meetings and collaborative research activities and contribute to the presentation of research findings at scientific conferences and preparation of manuscripts for publication. Mentorship (5%): Assist with training and mentoring undergraduate and graduateresearchers in the laboratory, including laboratory techniques, experimental design, dataanalysis, and scientific communication. Minimum Qualifications: Required: M.S. in biology, neuroscience, molecular and cellular biology, or a related discipline and have at least 3-5 years of research experience in iPSC culture. Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: Excellent organizational, written and oral communication skills. Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a research laboratory. Preferred Qualifications: Consideration will be given to candidates with experience in: Human induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) culture Neural differentiation, neuronal culture, and/or brain organoid culture Molecular biology techniques, including DNA/RNA isolation, PCR/qPCR, Western blotting, and related approaches Immunocytochemistry and microscopy Training or mentoring undergraduate researchers Prior experience with human iPSC culture is strongly preferred. Additional Position Information (if applicable) Required Application Documents Applicants should submit the following materials: A cover letter describing their research experience, relevant technical expertise, and interest in the position, and a curriculum vitae. Special Instructions (if applicable) Inquiries may be directed to Dr. Parul Varma at varmap@miamioh.edu. Screening of applications will begin (2) weeks from the date of posting and will continue until the position is filled. Additional Information A criminal background check is required. All campuses are smoke- and tobacco-free campuses. This organization participates in E-Verify. Remote Work For positions that are approved for remote work: Remote work is not a right, it is a work arrangement that can be modified or revoked by Miami Uni