Job Description

We are seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Research Assistant to join our team at the forefront of iPSC biobanking and automation. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role not only in establishing automation workflow but also in the collection, characterization, and maintenance of induced pluripotent stem cell lines, contributing directly to cutting-edge research initiatives in regenerative medicine, disease modeling, and drug discovery.

Responsibilities:

1. Automation specialist

   - Develop, optimize and troubleshoot automated liquid handling protocols on the Opentrons platform.

   - Designated person in charge of matters for the Opentrons system (assist with creating protocols if required for users interested in using the Opentrons for experiments)

2. iPSC Culture and Maintenance:

   - Execute established protocols for the culture and expansion of iPSC lines.

   - Monitor cell growth, viability, and quality control parameters.

   - Perform routine passaging and cryopreservation of iPSCs.

   - Maintain accurate records of cell culture activities.

3. iPSC Characterization:

- Conduct immunocytochemistry, flow cytometry, and molecular biology techniques to assess pluripotency and differentiation potential of iPSC lines.

   - Perform karyotyping and other cytogenetic analyses to ensure genomic stability.

   - Collaborate with researchers to design and implement experiments for iPSC characterization.

4. Biobanking Operations:

   - Coordinate sample collection, processing, and storage according to standardized protocols.

   - Label, track, and catalog iPSC samples in the biobank database.

   - Implement quality control measures to ensure sample integrity and compliance with regulatory

     requirements.

   - Assist in the development and optimization of biobanking workflows.

5. Data Management and Analysis:

   - Compile and organize experimental data, including cell culture records, characterization results, and

     biobank inventory information.

   - Analyze data using statistical methods and assist in the preparation of research reports and

     presentations.

   - Contribute to the maintenance and updating of laboratory databases and electronic notebooks.

6. Laboratory Support:

   - Maintain cleanliness and orderliness of the laboratory.

   - Assist in the procurement and organization of laboratory supplies and reagents.

   - Support other members of the research team in experimental procedures and technical troubleshooting.

Qualifications

- Bachelor's in Biology, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, or a related field.

- Experience with Python programming (particularly for scientific research)

- Hands-on experience in cell culture techniques, preferably with human pluripotent stem cells.

- Familiarity with basic molecular biology and cell biology techniques (e.g., PCR, Western blotting, immunocytochemistry).

- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.

- Ability to work independently as well as part of a collaborative research team.

- Prior experience in biobanking or sample management is advantageous.

- Knowledge of relevant safety protocols and regulatory guidelines in cell culture and biobanking is desirable.

This position offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking research in iPSC biology and biobanking, with potential for career development and growth within our dynamic research environment.