Research Associate Sr WPIC

Research Associate Sr

The Biofluid Biomarker Laboratory in the School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry at the University of Pittsburgh, directed by Dr. Thomas Karikari, is dedicated to advancing biomarker research in neurodegenerative diseases. We are seeking an outstanding Research Associate Sr to become a valuable research team member. Working under the guidance of faculty or senior scientists, the Research Associate Sr will play a pivotal role in conducting research focused on developing and implementing biomarker assays to revolutionize the diagnosis and prognosis of neurodegenerative diseases.

This position is grant funded.

Responsibilities

• Independently execute research projects according to established study design and procedures, assist with preparation of scientific articles, assist with data analysis, assist with IRB and grant submissions as needed.
• Perform various laboratory tasks related to blood collection, processing, testing, shipment, and storage.
• Perform biochemical sample preparation, including but not limited to tissue homogenization and fractionation, protein quantification assays, Western blotting, and ELISA.
• Process clinical samples and perform biomarker assays in strict adherence to established Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Good Clinical Laboratory Practices (GCLP) guidelines.
• Assist in method development, optimization, and validation for innovative biomarker assays.
• Operate various instruments, including SIMOA, NULISA, Lumipulse, etc.
• Perform regular maintenance on laboratory equipment.
• Maintain thorough and organized electronic records of research results and provide timely updates to supervisors regarding the status of research projects.
• Manage laboratory inventory, which includes ensuring a clean and orderly laboratory space, cataloging bio-banked research samples, and coordinating the allocation and organization of freezer space.
• Mentor, train, and assist with supervising junior research staff.
• Performs in accordance with system-wide competencies/behaviors.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Masters degree required preferably in Psychology, Neuroscience, Counseling, Sociology, or related research field.
• Minimum of one year of work experience in a research project and/or related clinical setting is required. Familiarity with computers and common software packages required.
• Working knowledge of research methodology strongly preferred.
• Hands-on experience with immunological assays, including ELISA and multiplexed immunoassays, as well as proficiency in molecular techniques (e.g., PCR) and cell culture.
• Previous experience with performing biomarker measurements in patient samples is a plus.
• Competency in standard data analysis software, including Microsoft Office products and GraphPad Prism.
• Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills.
• Strong attention to details and the ability to write and adhere to SOPs.
• Exceptional written and oral communication skills.
• Ability to work both independently and flexibly, accommodating varying study requirements.

Licensure, Certifications, and Clearances:

• Act 34 with renewal

UPMC is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran