Job Description

The O’Brien Lab (http://www.stemdynamics.org) is part of the Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology at Stanford University School of Medicine. Our goal is to uncover the ongoing dialog that adult stem cells have with the tissues they support, and understand how this dialog happens on the molecular and cellular levels. We use a simple invertebrate organ, the Drosophila midgut, to pioneer new imaging and computational approaches that address basic questions in stem cell biology.

The O’Brien Lab is seeking a highly motivated, detail-oriented Life Science Research Professional 1 (LSRP1) to join our dynamic laboratory environment. The LSRP1 will perform functions and activities involved in defined research projects, which principally involve live and fixed tissue microscopy of Drosophila organs, computerized image analysis (ImageJ/Imaris), basic MATLAB coding, and construction and maintenance of sophisticated Drosophila genetic stocks. The goals of the projects are to understand cellular interactions and signaling in stem cell based Drosophila organs. The LSRP1 is expected to independently conduct, analyze, and present experiments under the support and guidance of the principal investigator and other lab staff. The position also entails elements of lab support such as ordering supplies and equipment, maintaining lab records, assisting the training of new staff and students, and ensuring adherence to safety regulations.

Duties include:

Plan and perform experiments in support of research projects in lab and/or field based on knowledge of scientific theory. Interpret and perform basic analyses of results.

Perform Drosophila genetic manipulations and maintain associated stocks.

Microdissection and manipulation of both fixed and live Drosophila tissues. Fixation and immunostaining preparation of tissue.

Perform brightfield and confocal microscopy. A major focus will be live and fixed tissue imaging and image processing.

Perform post-acquisition processing and quantitative analysis of images using ImageJ/Fiji, Imaris, and MATLAB. The candidate will be expected to devise new computational pipelines for image analysis.

Perform basic molecular biology techniques like PCR.

Review literature on an ongoing basis to remain current with new procedures and related research.

Offer suggestions regarding modifications to procedures and protocols in collaboration with graduate and post-doctoral trainees.

Conduct experiments to generate preliminary data for grant proposals, seminars, and publications.

Maintain detailed records of experiments and outcomes.

Contribute to publication of findings as needed. Participate in the preparation of written documents and figures for publications, presentations, and proposals.

Help with general lab maintenance as needed; maintain lab stock, manage chemical inventory and safety records, provide general lab support and attend lab managerial meetings as needed.

Help orient and train new staff or students.

*- At the time of the interview, applicants will be asked to provide evidence of their imaging skills in the form of publications, posters, report, or other documentation.

* - Other duties may also be assigned

The job duties listed are typical examples of work performed by positions in this job classification and are not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, tasks, and responsibilities. Specific duties and responsibilities may vary depending on department or program needs without changing the general nature and scope of the job or level of responsibility. Employees may also perform other duties as assigned.

The expected pay range for this position is $26.44 to $36.54 per hour.
Stanford University provides pay ranges representing its good faith estimate of what the university reasonably expects to pay for a position. The pay offered to a selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the qualifications of the selected candidate, departmental budget availability, internal equity, geographic location and external market pay for comparable jobs.

At Stanford University, base pay represents only one aspect of the comprehensive rewards package. The Cardinal at Work website (https://cardinalatwork.stanford.edu/benefits-rewards) provides detailed information on Stanford’s extensive range of benefits and rewards offered to employees. Specifics about the rewards package for this position may be discussed during the hiring process.

Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process should contact Stanford University Human Resources at stanfordelr@stanford.edu. For all other inquiries, please submit a contact form.

Stanford is an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer.  All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS: 
-    Degree in Developmental Biology, Molecular Biology, Cell Biology or related field.
-    Proficiency with the following techniques are required: Drosophila genetics, basic molecular biology, immunostaining with fixed stains, prior imaging of live fluorophores (e.g. GFP and other live fluorescent markers), and brightfield and confocal microscopy.
-    Proficiency with computerized image analysis using ImageJ/Fiji and Adobe Creative Suite is also required.
-    MATLAB/Imaris experience is desired, but not required.
-    Strong analytical and quantitative skills and excellent judgment.
-    Highly motivated, dedicated, and independent.
-    Supportive team player.
-    Superb organizational and lab management skills.
-    Good written and oral communication skills.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE (REQUIRED):

Bachelor's degree in related scientific field.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (REQUIRED):
•    General understanding of scientific principles. Demonstrated performance to use knowledge and skills when needed.
•    Demonstrated ability to apply theoretical knowledge of science principals to problem solve work. 
•    Ability to maintain detailed records of experiments and outcomes.
•    General computer skills and ability to quickly learn and master computer programs, databases, and scientific applications.
•    Ability to work under deadlines with general guidance. 
•    Excellent organizational skills and demonstrated ability to accurately complete detailed work.

CERTIFICATIONS & LICENSES:

None

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS*:
•    Frequently stand, walk, twist, bend, stoop, squat, grasp lightly, use fine manipulation, grasp forcefully, perform desk-based computer tasks, use telephone, write by hand, lift, carry, push and pull objects weighing over 40 pounds. 
•    Occasionally sit, kneel, crawl, reach and work above shoulders, sort and file paperwork or parts. 
•    Rarely climb, scrub, sweep, mop, chop and mix or operate hand and foot controls. 
•    Must have correctible vision to perform duties of the job.
•    Ability to bend, squat, kneel, stand, reach above shoulder level, and move on hard surfaces for up to eight hours.
•    Ability to lift heavy objects weighing up to 50 pounds.
•    Ability to work in a dusty, dirty, and odorous environment.
•    Position may require repetitive motion.

*- Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodation to any employee with a disability who requires accommodation to perform the essential functions of his or her job.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

•    May require working in close proximity to blood borne pathogens.
•    May require work in an environment where animals are used for teaching and research.
•    Position may at times require the employee to work with or be in areas where hazardous materials and/or infectious diseases are present. 
•    Employee must perform tasks that require the use of personal protective equipment, such as safety glasses and shoes, protective clothing and gloves, and possibly a respirator. 
•    May require extended or unusual work hours based on research requirements and business needs.

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