Palo Alto Veterans Institute for Research (PAVIR) is seeking a full-time Life Sciences Research Assistant. The Research Assistant will contribute to all aspects of ongoing research projects by performing a variety of functions as outlined below:

1. Perform experiments, which may be moderate to complex with increasing independence
2. Analyze primary blood samples from patients
3. Pre-clinical rodent work (mouse handling, injections etc.).
4. Record data and analyze results using basic statistics.
5. Maintain and perform experiments with cells in tissue culture.
6. Help to prepare presentations and written articles for publication.
7. Prepare laboratory reagents, chemicals, instruments, and maintain equipment.
8. All other duties, as assigned.

This position is mainly in the laboratory and animal facility. The Research Assistant will conduct experiments that involve coordinating a complex experimental protocol, collaborate with the senior scientists/postdoctoral fellows working on defined research projects, and also work closely with the Lab Supervisor.

Schedule: This role is primarily a 40 hour work week (8 hours per day). It may sometimes require extended or unusual work hours based on research needs but this will be discussed in advanced with the Research Assistant and coordinated as their schedule allows.

BENEFITS

PAVIR is delighted to offer a robust and comprehensive employee benefits package with exceptional offerings such as health, dental and vision insurance, 14 paid holidays, generous vacation and sick pay policies, a 401(k) with a fully vested 6% company match and 3% profit share, a wellness program, commuter benefits, and professional development training. Plus, we pay for life, short-term disability, and long-term disability insurance.

MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Assist in obtaining human clinical samples from Stanford or VA OR and perform laboratory procedures to process and store human specimens obtained;
• Maintain biorepository systems;
• Independently conduct laboratory experiments and interpretation of research data, and maintain detailed records of experiments and outcomes.
• Assist in performing animal (rodent) studies on a regular basis in collaboration with the senior scientists. This includes direct handling of research animals and maintaining animal-related documents.
• Document experimental methods and procedures, and ability to learn new knowledge related to projects.
• Participate in weekly group meetings and contribute to preparing written documents as needed.
• Occasional travel to laboratory at Stanford;
• Assist with general laboratory maintenance as needed in collaboration with the lab manager;
• Other tasks as needed.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Required: Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience required;
  • Experience with cell culture and ability to learn research skills; Comfortable with rodent handling;
  • Valid Driver's License and auto insurance.
• Desired: 1-2 year of related work experience in a lab setting, including experience with animal handling/animal experimentation in a research setting;
  • General understanding of scientific principles.
  • Demonstrated ability to apply knowledge and skills to achieve the desired outcomes.
  • Demonstrated ability to apply theoretical knowledge of science principals to handle research work.
  • Ability to maintain detailed records of experiments and outcomes.
  • Basic computer skills and ability to learn and master new applications.
  • Ability to work under deadlines with general guidance.
  • Excellent organizational skills and demonstrated ability on following instructions.
  • Interested in biology/medicine and extremely self-motivated.
  • Collaborative, flexible and a strong team player.
  • Willingness to work with mice.
  • Must be able to logically and effectively structure tasks and set priorities.
  • Ability to identify potential problems and trouble-shoot solutions.

ABOUT PALO ALTO VETERANS INSTITUTE FOR RESEARCH (PAVIR)

PAVIR engages in the administration of funds and providing support for the conduct of research at the Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System (VAPAHCS) to find new and improved ways to combat human disease and help people with disabilities. At PAVIR we work with more than 160 uniquely talented medical scientists. Our researchers have an active appointment with the VA Palo Alto Health Care System and maintain academic appointments with Stanford University. We recruit and retain talented employees who believe in making a difference in the lives of others through innovative health research.

PAVIR is a nonprofit foundation affiliated with the Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System (VAPAHCS). As a condition of employment, all PAVIR employees are required to have an approved appointment with VA and complete a background check before they can commence work.

PAVIR is pleased to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Minorities, Women, Veterans, and Individuals with a Disability are encouraged to apply. We welcome and encourage diversity in the workplace regardless of race, color, religion, age, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. If you need special assistance or an accommodation to apply for a posted position, please contact jobs@pavir.org - Human Resources department.