RESEARCH ASSISTANT I

About the Roskamp Institute

The Roskamp Institute is an internationally recognized, not-for-profit research center dedicated to understanding and treating neurological disorders, including Alzheimer’s disease, Gulf War Illness, traumatic brain injury (TBI), and other neurodegenerative conditions. In addition to its neuroscience focus, the Institute conducts impactful research on the health effects of environmental toxins, including the neurological consequences of red tide exposure in coastal Southwest Florida communities.

Located in Sarasota, Florida, the Institute provides a collaborative and mission-driven environment where discoveries in the laboratory are translated into clinical applications that directly benefit human health.

Position Summary

Main Activities/Responsibilities: 

Under supervision, the candidate will conduct experiments related to ongoing studies of molecular and cellular neurobiology of brain disorders and cerebrovascular dysfunction associated with neurodegenerative disease. Candidates will ideally have experience in: molecular biology, cell biology and immunology, animal research, and performing cell culture studies, enzyme assays, and antibody-based protein analysis.

Examples of Job Requirements: 

· Performing basic molecular and cell biology experiments (i.e. western blot analysis, ELISA, cell culture, immunohistochemistry and flow-cytometry studies)

· Characterizing laboratory models of different neurological disorders

· Assisting with animal studies using mouse models, including oral gavage, intraperitoneal (IP), subcutaneous (SC), and intracranial injections

· Performing mouse euthanasia and tissue collection in accordance with approved animal care protocols

· Assisting with isolation of cerebrovascular tissue from mouse models for studies investigating vascular dysfunction in neurodegenerative diseases

· Follows protocols through a series of related detailed steps or processes

· Recording and analyzing data

· Maintains a daily updated laboratory notebook

· Maintains clean laboratory equipment and and/or work area to ensure a safe and efficient work environment

· Performs literature research

· Presenting results to senior/other research staff

· Orders laboratory supplies

· Prepares stock solutions and buffers

· Contributes data/findings for use in reports, documents or oral/written presentation

· Prepare materials for submission to granting agencies

· Interacts in a collaborative manner with other team members to accomplish organizational goals

Qualifications: 

· B.S. or B.A. degree in Biological Sciences, Neuroscience, Biochemistry, Immunology, or a related discipline is preferred.

· Previous laboratory research experience in molecular biology, cell biology, immunology, or neuroscience is preferred.

· Experience working with laboratory mice is highly desirable, including animal handling and basic dosing techniques, euthanasia and tissue collection.

· Preparing, labeling, and organizing samples for LC-MS analysis. Cerebrovascular isolation and LC-MS sample preparation is a plus, although training may be provided for motivated candidates.

· Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

· Excellent inter-personal skills.

· Ability to interact with individuals with varying levels of experience and background while working closely with supervisors, colleagues, and other research assistants.

· Willingness to learn new techniques, multitasking skills and time flexibility to meet grant/report deadlines.

Physical requirements 

· Positions in the class typically require climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling, reaching, standing, walking, pushing, pulling, lifting, grasping, feeling, talking, hearing, seeing and repetitive motions

· Medium work: exerting up to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 20 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects

· Incumbents may be subjected to moving mechanical parts, electrical currents, fumes, odors, dusts, gases, poor ventilation, chemicals, and oil.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive salary based on experience
• Paid time off (PTO), paid holidays, and sick leave
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• 403(b) retirement savings plan with employer contribution
• Opportunities for continuing education and professional development
• Supportive and mission-driven work culture