Summary

The Neuroscience Department at Baylor College of Medicine is seeking a Research Assistant in the Jankowsky lab. The laboratory is located at the main Baylor College of Medicine campus which enjoys a vibrant and collegial scientific environment.  BCM itself is located in Houston's Texas Medical Center, a 1,000-acre complex of over 50 independent institutions within easy access. Houston is the fourth largest city in the US and is home to a diverse international population.  The city offers great restaurants, a warm climate, and affordable housing.

The Research Assistant will study the biophysics of strain conformation in mouse models of amyloidosis. This work includes characterizing the structural profiles, seeding capacity, and cross-seeding potential of Abeta aggregates derived from different strains of APP transgenic mice. The appointment is for an initial term of one year, with the expectation of continued support pending successful progress.  The position comes with competitive salary and benefits, commensurate with experience.  The start date is flexible, and applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

Duties include but are not limited to aggregation assays, Abeta/tau biochemistry and extraction, protein purification, mouse breeding, plug checks, weaning, toe biopsies, PCR genotyping, record keeping, intracranial injections, perfusions, dissections, tissue sectioning, immunostaining, imaging, analysis, supply maintenance, and general lab organization.  Researchers will work as part of a team combining mouse genetic engineering, viral circuit manipulation, neurohistology, and basic biochemistry to understand Alzheimer's pathogenesis and develop potential treatments.  

You can learn more about our lab and ongoing projects at our website:  https://www.bcm.edu/research/labs-and-centers/faculty-labs/joanna-jankowsky-lab

Job Duties

• Designs and conducts research experiments to examine structural differences in Abeta aggregates from multiple transgenic mouse lines.
• Selects and determines appropriate research procedures and collects, compiles and analyzes data.
• Documents and interprets results and prepare experimental results for publication and oral presentation.
• Harvests and processes tissue from experimental animals for histology, immunostaining, or biochemistry.
• Performs mouse husbandry including breeding, weaning, euthanasia as needed to maintain multiple mouse strains.
• Organizes and performs weekly toe biopsies to obtain material for genotyping.
• Maintains accurate biopsy, breeding, and genotyping records.
• Manages lab including inventory, ordering (Fastcard, Punchout, and POs), and receiving, and equipment upkeep.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a Basic Science or a related field.
• Two years of relevant experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's degree in a related field.
• Strong background in molecular biology, including protein biochemistry.
• Experience with tau/amyloid biology and mouse models for tauopathy and amyloidosis.
• Prior experience with basic laboratory techniques including PCR, immunostaining, and protein extraction.  
• Good organizational skills, excellent record keeping, and attention to detail.
• Highly self-motivated with outstanding experimental skills.
• Able to think independently but also work well in a team.
• Resume/CV MUST include contact information for 3 references.