Research Assistant, Department of Surgery

Virginia Commonwealth University   Richmond, VA   Full-time     Research
Posted on April 5, 2024
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Position Description

A Research Assistant position is available in the laboratory of Dr. Esha Madan at Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine. The successful candidate chosen for this position will participate in projects focusing on the role of thermodynamic changes on Cell Competition. We are looking for a candidate with experience with thermodynamics, and engineering background to set up a system for the impact of cold and hot temperatures on cell-cell interactions. This is an important area to observe as the cancer is generally associated with bacterial growth which alters the local temperature readings and influences cell fate.

Major responsibilities in this position include performing working mammalian cell culture, and maintenance of a thermodynamic chamber to study the impact of temperature on cell-cell interactions. In addition, the candidate must participate in the design and performance of research projects, be able to report and interpret results to the principal investigator, other laboratory staff, and students, as well as assist other staff and troubleshoot experiments and instrument problems. Also, the candidate must be able to maintain detailed records of results from the experiments.

Required Education & Experience
  • Experience with temperature, chambers, thermodynamic control of the cell culture chamber
  • Knowledge of hyperbaric chambers
  • Strong communication skills, organization and ability to present work in a clear and concise manner
  • Demonstrated experience working in and fostering a diverse faculty, staff, and student environment or a commitment to do so
Preferred Education & Experience
  • Prior experience in this field
  • Bachelor or Master of Engineering
  • Experience with cell culture and extensive experience with thermodynamic chambers, and hyperbaric chambers
Additional Information

ORP Eligibility: No

University Title: Lab/Research Technician (1-3), Research & Innovation

Restricted Position: This is a restricted position with no set end date and continued employment is dependent upon project need, availability of funding, and performance.

Vaccination Requirements: Please note that if you are employed as a university employee working in any of the health system's facilities, you will need to follow VCU Health System policies, which will include but will not be limited to, vaccination requirements.

The School of Medicine continuously strives for our workplace and learning environment to reflect the demographic and social milieu of the communities we serve. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply.

Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) School of Medicine is a premier academic medical center located in the heart of Richmond. Accounting for almost half of VCU's sponsored research, the School of Medicine is internationally recognized for patient care and education. VCU School of Medicine comprises 18 clinical departments, eight basic health science departments, and 11 affiliated institutes and centers, and provides preeminent education to physicians and scientists in order to improve the quality of healthcare for humanity. All full-time university staff are eligible for our generous benefits package that includes choices for health, vision, and dental coverage, life-insurance, short and long-term disability coverage, retirement planning, tax-deferred annuity and cash match programs, flexible spending accounts, tuition benefits, significant paid-time off,12 paid holidays, and more. Explore our benefits further here: https://hr.vcu.edu/current-employees/benefits/university-and-academic-professional-benefits/

Salary Range: $35,000 - $40,000

Position Details:

Department: SurgeryEmployment Type: UF - University Employee FTRestricted Status: YesFTE: 1.0Exemption Status: Non-Exempt