Research Professional I, Department of Cellular & Molecular Medicine)

The Colson Lab is seeking a highly motivated candidate for a Research Professional I position in the Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine. Dr. Brett Colson's NIH funded laboratory focuses on understanding the molecular interactions and structural dynamics of proteins involved in regulating contraction and relaxation of cardiac and skeletal muscle. The lab aims to determine the culprits of contractile dysfunction and remodeling in heart failure and muscle disorders, and then apply these insights to design novel therapies. The lab uses biophysical approaches, such as time-resolved FRET (fluorescence resonance energy transfer) with site-directed probes on muscle proteins such actin, myosin, and myosin-binding protein C (MyBP-C), to assess mechanism of action.

The selected candidate will perform basic molecular biology and biochemistry techniques including western blotting, bacterial cell culture, cell biological assays, DNA sequencing, and protein purification and labeling with fluorescent dyes. They will maintain mouse colonies, which includes the following: breeding, weaning, genotyping, ear tagging, harvesting tissues, and performing physiological assessments. They will also assist with laboratory management including ordering supplies, inventory of biological samples, and maintenance/training of instruments. Individuals competitive for this position will have a demonstrated track record of integrity, responsibility, and professionalism.

Outstanding UA benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance plans; life insurance and disability programs; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; UA/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; retirement plans; access to UA recreation and cultural activities; and more!

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Duties and Responsibilities:

• Perform technical experiments, including performing site-directed mutagenesis, affinity-tag and FPLC chromatography, labeling of protein with spectroscopic probes, and co-sedimentation pull-down assays.
• Design PCR primers, conduct PCR genotyping, and document data.
• Assist with animal experiments by injecting experimental compounds, euthanizing animals, collecting samples, and sample storage.
• Refine, adapt, or develop procedures or techniques to fit specific experimental requirements. This includes managing research animal colonies (breeding, weaning, ear tagging, ear clipping, setting up and maintaining breeding schemes, animal identification, and genotyping) and maintaining the animal database; maintaining DNA sequencing database of protein mutations and variants.
• Collaborate with research team in the development of new strategies, techniques involving the preparation of protein and cell biosensors for biochemical and biophysical research.
• Coordinate with other labs on collaborative projects. Aid with independent development of new methods or approaches to develop new models for investigators to study disease.
• Provide expert knowledge and support for team with intricate matters that require strong decision-making. Provide guidance, mentorship, and training to graduate and undergraduate students working the the team.
• Evaluate and maintain detailed records of research results, data acquisition, and data and statistical analysis of studies conducted. Data will be used for publications, future contract proposals, and/or provided to other PI's for use in their own research.
• Meet with PI regularly to provide progress reports (reviewing processes, progress, and providing evaluation of results) and actively participate in and coordinate lab meetings, research seminars, and conferences.
• Provide research support to the lab including stocking and ordering of supplies.
• Ship animals and infectious and biological substance samples in compliance with regulations.

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent advanced learning attained through experience required.
• One year of relevant work experience is required.

• Prior UA research experience.