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Research Assistant

Portland, United States

The Estell Lab in the Department of Biomedical Sciences at the University of New England is seeking a Research Assistant to join our team. Based at the Portland Laboratory for Biotechnology and Health Sciences, the Estell Lab focuses on employing biomanufacturing and tissue engineering techniques to build cellular models for mechanobiology and signaling in bone.

Interested candidates should submit the following materials:

A cover letter describing previous research experience and future career goals
A detailed curriculum vitae (CV)
Contact information for three professional references

About the University of New England
UNE is Maine’s largest private university, with an active research community that together holds the most NIH funding in the state. Across two beautiful coastal campuses in Biddeford and Portland Maine, faculty scientists pursue biomedical research with broad impacts on healthcare, alongside a medical school that is the state’s top provider of health professionals.

Benefits Overview

Multiple health and dental plan options, plus vision coverage.
Up to 8% retirement plan match.
Generous leave time, including vacation, sick, and personal time, and 12+ holidays per year.
Educational benefits:
- UNE tuition waiver for employees, spouses, and domestic partners.
- UNE tuition waiver for dependents of employees with 1 year of full-time service.
  - 50% tuition reduction if less than 1 year of full-time service.

For more information about our outstanding benefits, please visit: UNE Benefits Overview.

Responsibilities

The Estell Laboratory is seeking a driven early career scientist to help establish a new research program at the Portland Laboratory for Biotechnology and Health Sciences at UNE. The Research Assistant will work closely with Dr. Estell, receiving mentorship on career development while also contributing to the mentorship and training of student researchers in the lab.

The primary focus of this position is to conduct research—both independently and collaboratively—in support of the Estell Laboratory at University of New England. Key responsibilities include:

Gain expertise and conduct experiments with methodologies including:
- Cell and tissue culture
- Cell imaging and culture under flow in microphysiologic bioreactors
- Live cell and immuno-fluorescence imaging
- Gene and protein expression analysis ·
Pursue novel projects developing biomaterials for 3D cell culture including hydrogel and electrospun scaffolds ·
Assist PI in organizational and regulatory aspects of lab operation
- Inventory and ordering of supplies
- Training student researchers in methods and safety
- Maintenance of protocols and documentation of training
- Dissemination of research through manuscripts and presentations
- Preparation of grant proposals
Perform other duties as assigned

Qualifications

Required

BS or BS/MS in biomedical engineering, biomedical sciences, or a related field
Basic wet lab and cell culture experience (pipetting, aseptic technique)
Effective public speaking and writing skills
Strong cross-organizational communication skills to collaborate with students, faculty, and staff
Time and resource management across multiple projects and responsibilities
Attention to detail in developing and maintaining protocols and records

Preferred

Experience in the following experimental techniques will be prioritized:
Cell culture in 2D and 3D model systems
Isolation of primary cells and maintenance of cell lines
Biomaterials and scaffold design for tissue engineering
Microfluidics and bioreactor design
Fluorescence microscopy
Gene and protein expression analysis (qPCR, RNAseq, protein blotting)

EEO Statement Summary

Consistent with federal and state law and University policy, the University of New England is committed to the fundamental concept of equal opportunity for all of the members of the University community. The University prohibits, and will not tolerate, discrimination in employment, the provision of academic services or in any other area of University life based on race, color, sex, physical or mental disability, religion, age, ancestry, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, ethnicity, genetic information, HIV status, or status as a veteran. Prohibited bias factors should not motivate decisions regarding students, employees, applicants for admission, applicants for employment, contractors, volunteers or participants in and/or users of institutional programs, services, and activities.

COVID Vaccination Statement (PLEASE NOTE)

Employees in clinical settings must meet the State of Maine’s immunization requirements for clinical activity.

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