Lab Associate/Lab Manager, Division of Biological Sciences

The position entails technical work in the laboratory of Dr. Sarah Certel to maintain D rosophila stocks , prepare and maintain germ free flies, perform advanced dissection and tissue-labeling experiments, confocal imaging and analysis, and participate in behavioral assays. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to: carrying out established experimental protocols; performing immunohistochemical techniques such as brain and gut dissections, confocal imaging; qRT-PCR (RNA extraction, cDNA generation), maintaining routine laboratory upkeep; ensuring that equipment related to experiments are in proper functioning order; working with the PI and other lab personnel; maintaining and troubleshooting data analysis and storage; person hired for the position may infrequently need to come in to work for 1-2 hours on a weekend day to check on laboratory animals. This position is also responsible for keeping records, maintaining the laboratory by getting C02 tanks as necessary, incubator maintenance, and ordering supplies. The position requires presenting at lab meetings here at the University of Montana, joint zoom meetings with our collaborators at MSU and Brown University, and the potential for traveling nationally to meetings. In addition, the position requires advanced tasks including using acquired data to generate figures and text for publications, researching the literature to identify new procedures and assays for the project, and independent personnel management activities including training and supervising undergraduate and graduate research students in the lab. This position will also train and supervise undergraduate and graduate students in the lab on their research projects as needed (training and supervision = 4-5 hours/weekly).

• Demonstrated knowledge of laboratory techniques and protocols
• Demonstrated knowledge of laboratory instruments and equipment
• Effective interpersonal, public relations, and communication skills, including ability to work with a diverse population
• Effective time management and organizational skills with the ability to complete tasks while paying attention to detail
• Demonstrated skill in the operation of personal computers and related word processing, and database software with the ability to learn other software
• Knowledge of supplies, equipment and/or services, Grizmart ordering, and inventory control
• Expertise in confocal microscope imaging
• Expertise in immunohistochemistry and brain dissections
• Demonstrated knowledge of genetic techniques and Drosophila crosses

Position Number: NEW

Bargaining Unit: FOCUS-MFPE

Work Schedule: Full-time, 1.0 FTE (40 Hours a week), Monday through Friday 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, 12 months/year

Probationary Period: Six (6) months minimum

Benefits Include : Insurance package, mandatory retirement plan, partial tuition waiver, and wellness program.

A complete application includes:

• Letter of Interest addressing your qualifications and experience related to the stated required skills for the position. A general letter salutation such as Dear Search Committee or Dear Hiring Manager is acceptable.

• Detailed Resume listing education and describing work experience

• Three (3) Professional References names and contact information