Postdoctoral Research Associate - Meharry Medical College

This position works under occasional supervision. Assignments are at the specialized scientific research level requiring independent judgment. Assist in publishing articles and papers; Supervises and trains lower level classifications, assigned lab technicians, and students. Sets up and operates complex scientific apparatus.

Daily Operations

• Performs independent research and assists with other research projects. Plans, designs, and implements research projects.
• Prepares and maintains culture media and reagents, grows cultures (cells, viruses, etc.)
• Performs library research; prepares compounds; interprets experimental test data; cuts, stains and mounts specimens. May perform research with radioactive elements.
• Compiles, processes and analyzes data.
• Documents research procedures and results according to department guidelines.
• Develops reports from research data gathered; maintains reports and records; codes data for electronic data processing; inputs and retrieves data via computer; analyzes, interprets and verifies data.
• Conducts advanced research in particular field of knowledge and assists with publishing data in professional journals.
• Writes, reviews and edits various materials for publication. Researches articles from various sources.
• Sets up and operates various scientific apparatus: scintillation counter, centrifuge, spectrometer, gamma counter, microscopes, homogenizers, etc.
• Develops revises, and recommends new laboratory or research project operating policies and procedures.
• Attends and participates in seminars and lectures to remain abreast of current trends and developments in related research.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Required Skills

• Possess comprehensive knowledge of research laboratory operating policies, procedures and scientific methodology, including ability to operate and maintain research tools, instruments and equipment.
• Thorough knowledge of the use and preparation of culture media, chemicals, reagents, and the ability to perform a variety of laboratory procedures.
• Demonstrated ability to express ideas clearly and concisely orally and in writing, including ability to analyze and extract data from conversation and documents for research projects.
• Ability to independently conduct research following established department guidelines.
• Strong supervisory skills and ability to effectively train and evaluate personnel on laboratory research methods and procedures.
• Strong interpersonal skills necessary to develop and maintain effective working relationships internally and externally.
• Ability to operate PC software and other office technology.

Education and Experience

A PhD (Biochemistry/Biomedical Sciences/Microbiology) and minimum of 2-3 years of post-doctoral research experience is required. Person will require an in-depth knowledge in the field of molecular biology, particularly on molecular parasitology. Publications required. Experience with general molecular biology techniques (cloning, DNA analysis, PCR, etc), immunoassays (ELISA, Western blot), cell culture, and microscopy techniques are required. Prior experience with handling laboratory mice will be preferred