Senior Research Assistant - Epigenetics and Molecular Carcinogenesis

Department of Epigenetics and Molecular Carcinogenesis
The Department of Epigenetics and Molecular Carcinogenesis is an interdisciplinary, basic science research department conducting groundbreaking research aimed at defining the mechanisms controlling normal cell growth, proliferation, differentiation, and survival. The department also investigates mechanisms involved in genome maintenance to identify the aberrations in these processes that drive cancer.

Research Focus Areas
This position is open in the laboratory of Dr. Jean Gautier. Dr. Gautier studies the mechanisms responsible for the maintenance of genome stability. The laboratory employs various experimental approaches to elucidate the causes and the role of genome instability in cancer. Cell-free extracts derived from the egg of the frog Xenopus laevis are used as a simple model system to study processes that govern genome stability, including DNA replication control, DNA repair, and the cellular response to DNA damage. In addition, cultured normal and tumor cells and mouse models are exploited to analyze biological responses to DNA damage. The Gautier laboratory use a range of techniques including biochemistry, proteomics, live-cell imaging, super-resolution microscopy, Hi-C and genome-wide translocation sequencing.

Key Functions

The primary purpose of the Senior Research Assistant position is to provide supervision, special training to technical personnel, and /or highly technical work in research projects. Performs a series of experiments designed to supply specific information as a part of a larger project; an answer to questions in a limited field; or, in development of improved techniques, production methods or procedures in the Department of Epigenetics and Molecular Carcinogenesis.

Research Support  

Perform research or experimental tasks to supply information as part of a research project or laboratory. 

Responsible for planning and executing details of an experiment, including set up, timing (scheduled, staffed, planned), coordination of supplies and equipment at hand, functionality of equipment, trained personnel.

Evaluate and interpret experimental results. Assemble, operate and troubleshoot equipment.

Compile/prepare tables and charts. 

Assist with preparation of grant applications and progress reports.

Expertise and Specialization 

Apply background/experience in science, using independent evaluation, judgment and analysis. 

Perform research or experimental tasks in a limited field (niche) or specialty area. 

Master difficult, advanced, skills or technology.

Develop and revise protocols, procedures, and techniques. 

Introduce/implement new technology. 

Participate in troubleshooting and resolving problems.

Laboratory Organization  

Supervise technicians and oversee their training. 

May oversee educational appointees in their work and assist them as assigned or delegated. 

Assess availability of supplies and advise/recommend purchasing as needed.

Contribute to the laboratory; assess need for back-up and cover as necessary; cross-train.

May have delegated signing authority on routine purchases.