Research Associate IV

Research Associate IVUnder the direction of the Principal Investigator (PI) or designee, the Research Associate IV designs and performs a variety of complex research experiments with a high degree of independence. This position will contribute significantly to the management of the research program and will be involved in multiple aspects of the research projects and lab maintenance activities.The Bucci Lab conducts research at the intersection of microbiome ecology and host physiology, integrating microbiology, immunology, animal models, and computational approaches to investigate interactions between the microbiome and the host. The position offers an opportunity to contribute to a collaborative research environment spanning clinical cohorts and mechanistic studies, with a combination of laboratory operations and hands-on experimental research.ResponsibilitiesEssential Functions:Independently design and perform multiple complex laboratory experimentsIdentify and utilize all software relevant to experiment and equipment usedInterpret data, form conclusions and decide on next steps with a high degree of independenceMaintain accurate records, and record results according to established lab, sponsor and University protocolReview literature, publications and grants relevant to assigned projectsPerform in-depth data analysis and/or mathematical computationsMaintain a detailed lab notebook according to lab practiceCompile and analyze data, and present in a format suitable for publication according to PI specificationsPresent findings at lab/group meetings and other forumsMaintain laboratory supply levels and order as notedManage laboratory equipment service contracts and coordinate maintenance on laboratory equipment.Prepare and label buffers, media, solutions, etc.Monitor and enforce all safety regulation and infection control standardsIdentify and write standard operation procedures in compliance to EHS regulation specific for the labTrain on IACUC, EHS, Radiation safety protocolsComply with all applicable state, federal university, and sponsor policies and agreementsManage daily operations of the laboratory, including lab personnel, procedures and projectsIdentify problems and challenges, propose resolutions, implement appropriate solutionsDevelop and implement new protocols and/or modify defined protocols, as necessary, and with the approval of the PIPrioritize and perform several tasks or procedures simultaneously with attention to detailPerform duties and experiments with independenceMentor and train lab personnel on proper lab conduct and techniquesManage laboratory spending in accordance with budget guidelines provided by PI or designeeAssist with budget and/or operational aspects of grant and contract proposalsNegotiate with vendors to optimize available resourcesContribute independently to writing sections for manuscripts and grantsDirect the activities of research support staffPerform other duties as requiredQualificationsRequired Qualifications:Bachelor's degree in Biological or Natural Science and 5+ years of relevant research experience or a related Master's degree with 3+ years of relevant research experience.Knowledge of Microsoft Office productsStrong ability to analyze complex visual data in a quantitative and objective mannerAbility to work in a team environmentPreferred Qualifications:Experience with anaerobic microbiology, including cultivation of obligate anaerobes.Experience working with mouse models in microbiome or immunology research; gnotobiotic mouse experience is a plus.Experience with immunological techniques, such as multiparameter flow cytometry, ELISA, or cytokine analysis.Familiarity with microbiome research methods, including 16S rRNA gene sequencing, shotgun metagenomics, or sequencing library preparation.Experience with laboratory organization, equipment maintenance, inventory management, and coordination of day-to-day laboratory operations.Experience maintaining laboratory records, developing standard operating procedures, or supporting regulatory and laboratory safety requirements.Additional InformationThe Bucci Lab brings together researchers working in microbiome ecology, mucosal immunology, and host physiology. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to contribute to a multidisciplinary research program involving microbiology, immunology, and animal models while helping maintain an organized and collaborative laboratory environment.Supervision Received: Under the direction of the Principal Investigator, or designeeSupervision Exercised: Supervise aides, technicians, and associatesEnvironmental Working Conditions: Wet chemistry laboratory, and may require appropriate contact with biohazards, radionuclides, toxins, animals, and human specimens