Life Sciences Research Associate – Liver Fibrosis and Matrix Remodeling

Palo Alto Veterans Institute for Research (PAVIR) supports the nation's second largest research program conducted among the VA Hospitals and is seeking a part-time Life Sciences Research Associate. The Life Sciences Research Associate will conduct and manage laboratory research focused on liver fibrosis and matrix remodeling in metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The position involves independently performing experimental procedures, analyzing data, and collaborating with the Principal Investigator and postdoctoral researchers to advance ongoing research projects.

BENEFITS

PAVIR is delighted to offer a robust and comprehensive employee benefits package with exceptional offerings such as sick pay policies, a 401(k) with a fully vested 6% company match and 3% profit share, commuter benefits, wellness program, employee assistance program, and professional development training.

MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Perform laboratory experiments related to liver fibrosis and matrix remodeling including mouse husbandry and breeding, genotyping, immunohistochemistry/fluorescence, RT-qPCR, Western blotting, cloning, PCR, and mammalian cell culture.
• Conduct animal care activities and maintain mouse colonies, including breeding, genotyping, and documentation of animal usage in accordance with approved protocols.
• Process and analyze biological samples, including isolation and processing of PBMCs and preparation of tissue or cellular samples for downstream molecular and biochemical assays.
• Analyze and interpret experimental data using basic statistical methods and software such as GraphPad; assist with transcriptomic or bioinformatic analyses when applicable.
• Contribute to experimental design, troubleshooting, and protocol optimization in collaboration with the PI and postdoctoral researchers; recommend modifications to research protocols based on experimental findings.
• Maintain accurate and detailed experimental records in laboratory notebooks and electronic data systems (e.g., Box); organize research data, analyses, and presentations for the research team.
• Participate in lab meetings and collaborative discussions, presenting results and contributing to interpretation of findings and development of future experiments.
• Other tasks as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Required: PhD;
• At least 1-2 years of related prior research experience;
• Preferred: Degree in biology, cell biology, molecular biology or a related discipline.
• Three years of experience working with mouse models and laboratory animal handling;
• Knowledge of molecular and cellular biology techniques including PCR, RT-qPCR, Western blotting, cloning, and cell culture.
• Experience with animal research including mouse husbandry, breeding, and genotyping.
• Experience with immunohistochemistry or immunofluorescence techniques.
• Experience with isolation and processing of PBMCs or other primary cell samples.
• Ability to perform experiments independently and troubleshoot technical issues with minimal supervision.
• Strong organizational skills and meticulous record keeping of experimental procedures and results.
• Ability to analyze and interpret experimental data using statistical tools and software such as GraphPad.
• Familiarity with transcriptomic data analysis or programming languages such as R is a plus.
• Knowledge of laboratory safety procedures and proper handling of biohazardous materials.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills and ability to collaborate effectively within a research team.
• Ability to work efficiently, accurately, and independently to meet research timelines.

ABOUT PALO ALTO VETERANS INSTITUTE FOR RESEARCH (PAVIR)

PAVIR facilitates research and education activities conducted at the VA Palo Alto Health Care System. At PAVIR we work with more than 160 uniquely talented medical scientists. We recruit and retain talented employees who believe in making a difference in the lives of others through innovative health research.

READY TO JOIN OUR RESEARCH TEAM?

If you feel that you would be right for this job, please fill out our initial 3-minute, mobile-friendly application. We look forward to meeting you!

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 VAPAHCS 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.