Job Title: Research Assistant NIH SeroNet Project

Program Director: Director of the Scientific Research Institute

Location/Hours: San Juan, Puerto Rico

Purpose:

Participate and assist with the coordination of laboratory projects or research studies. This individual will contribute independently to projects and studies based on professional training or functional experience

The Trust is an equal opportunity employer; we strive to maintain a workplace atmosphere that is free from discrimination. To those ends, the Trust provides equal employment opportunities without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, age, marital status, national origin, social status, political affiliation, religion, physical or mental disability, veteran status, perceived or real domestic violence victim status, sexual harassment victim status, stalking victim status, and/or any other basis protected by law.

Key Responsibilities and Duties:

The Research Assistant will work under the supervision of the SeroNet grant principal investigators to:

• Responsible for the daily laboratory quality control duties.
• Support experiments designed to elucidate the immunology of the SARS-CoV-2 virus in the population of Puerto Rico.
• Perform general laboratory tasks such as molecular virology techniques and management and handling of COVID-19-positive patient samples, including blood and upper respiratory tract samples.
• Complete cell and molecular-based viral quantification assays, including viral culture, isolation, titration, virus purification, neutralization assays, fractionation of serum, plasma, and peripheral blood cells, freeze/thaw of liquid nitrogen stored cells, processing of samples for RT-PCR, flow cytometry and multiplex assays.
• Develop ELISA-based serological antibody determinations.
• In charge of the procurement of reagents and materials and of maintaining an inventory of all equipment and materials of the lab.
• Prepare samples for shipping to outside laboratories following local, IATA, and any applicable regulations.
• Responsible for maintaining experiment records in the form of a laboratory notebook.
• Write, edit, and contribute to PowerPoint presentations and publications.
• Maintain a working atmosphere of respect, professionalism, and productivity.
• Ensures integrity of the project.

Since our organization is going to change to meet the needs of new designations, you can expect, anticipate, and assume that your job description will change to meet these challenges.

Qualifications & Technical Job Requirements:

• Planning and scheduling, technical skills.
• Data Collection proficiency.
• Excellent communication skills. Strong command of written and verbal communication in English and Spanish.
• Excellent interpersonal and presentation skills, as well as persuasive abilities to influence cooperation and collaboration.
• Capable of prioritizing work (meeting deadlines, able to work under pressure).
• Ability to work within a team and provide support to direct reports.
• Ability to perform in a cross-functional team approach and job responsibilities.
• Solid understanding of the organization's overall business and program objectives.
• A proficient computer user with equal knowledge of software programs and the Internet.
• Bilingual (Fluent in English and Spanish).

Experience & Educational Requirements:

This position requires a bachelor’s degree in Biology, Chemistry, Clinical Laboratory Sciences, or another science-related field. Directly related experience with molecular biology techniques in a research laboratory is required. The educational emphasis on biology and virology is preferred. Experience in basic skills in molecular biology and cell culture preferred. Willing to work with infectious viruses. Highly organized, committed to the project, and interested in learning new information and acquiring new skills. Excellent written and oral communication. Ability to work as part of a team. Basic math skills and familiarity with basic computer software, including MS Word and Excel. Resourceful with heightened analytical abilities and problem-solving skills in a fast-paced environment. Excellent interpersonal skills and detailed-oriented