What are the responsibilities and job description for the Senior Research Assistant position at Meso Scale Discovery?
POSITION SUMMARY:
This position is responsible for supporting research and product development efforts by executing experiments, testing new products and maintaining laboratory equipment. Specific tasks include performing scheduled equipment maintenance and instrument qualification activities in addition to performing laboratory-based experiments to support and accelerate feasibility, development and qualification testing of new products. This position requires weekend work (Saturday or Sunday).
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Executes the following types of experiments independently using established protocols:
o Immunoassay kit component testing using plate-based assays.
o Qualification testing of new immunoassays.
o Sample processing and sample testing using established and newly developed assays.
o Testing to optimize product performance using complicated layouts and procedures.
o Pilot scale preparation and testing of components for immunoassay kits.
- Trains new employees on assay procedures, analysis software, and equipment maintenance.
- Performs general daily, weekly, monthly, and annual maintenance of laboratory equipment to ensure compliance with company policies and safety requirements. Restocks supplies and disposes of waste as necessary.
- Performs qualification testing of laboratory equipment and troubleshoots malfunctioning equipment, by performing minor repairs and part replacements, and schedules major repairs.
- Complies with company safety regulations, personal protective equipment requirements, standard operating procedures, work instructions and good laboratory practices.
EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS:
- Associate's degree in scientific field or equivalent relevant work experience.
- Two years' experience working in a laboratory setting, preferably with immunoassays.
- Experience with Biosafety level 2 (BSL-2) is required.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
- Knowledge of general laboratory terminology, proper laboratory equipment handling practice, and safe work practices.
- Familiarity with MS Office, particularly MS Excel.
- High level of attention to detail; highly motivated and organized.
- Ability to trouble-shoot and communicate issues/problems that might affect the quality, accuracy and reliability of laboratory instrumentation.
- Good oral, written communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to execute experiments following protocols and/or SOPs.
- Ability to move/lift up to 25 pounds.
- Ability to work weekends.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
- While performing the duties of this job, the individual is frequently required to sit and stand for long periods. The individual is occasionally required to walk; use hands and fingers to operate, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls; reach with hands and arms.
- There are aspects of this position may require an individual to work at heights above four (4) feet and move/lift up to 25 pounds.
WORK ENVIRONMENT:
- Standard biology laboratory environment with chemical and biological reagents up to BSL-2.