| Project Title: Molecular Cell Biology |
Project Description:
Modern biological research is built upon the foundation of recombinant DNA technology. Our ability to express genes in target cells, and to make large or discrete alterations to gene coding sequences, has been vitally important for obtaining insights into the molecular mechanisms that underlie cellular processes such as signal transduction, cell division, or gene expression. In this project, the RA will work with current lab members in a support capacity, helping to prepare lab stocks, isolate DNA for experiments, use DNA sequencing to verify the identity of research tools, and designing and undertaking site-directed mutagenesis to evaluate the role of key amino acids in protein functions. |
RA Position Duties and Resposibilities
(Include Interaction with Research Team Members, Supervisory Arrangements):
The duties and responsibilities include the following: The research assistant's duties and responsibilities will include media and solution preparation, growth, maintenance and curation of bacterial stocks, preparation of competent bacterial cells for transformations, isolation of plasmid DNA, verification of DNA sequences, curating DNA sequence information, site-directed mutagenesis of plasmids. Collecting and analyzing data: Collect and analyze data from experiments, including quantification of nucleic acids and proteins. Assisting with laboratory management, including helping with management of laboratory inventory (e.g., reagents, supplies, and equipment). Literature review to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in their field and to identify new research opportunities. Data management: Organize and maintain laboratory data, including databases, spreadsheets, and electronic notebooks. Overall, research assistants must be detail-oriented, organized, and able to follow established protocols and safety guidelines. They must also have strong communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively as part of a team. |
| How Many Students Are Currently Under Your Supervision: Undergraduate:
2
Masters: 4
Doctoral: 4
|
| Animals Will Be Used In Research:
No
|
| Human Subjects Involved:
No
|
| Hazardous Materials, Equipment, or Processes Will Be Involved
in the Research:
Yes
|
Research Experience and Opportunites Offered RA:
Research assistants will benefit in several ways. Firstly, they will gain valuable hands-on experience in molecular biology techniques and laboratory protocols, which can be applied to future research endeavors. This experience can include knowledge of techniques such as PCR, DNA sequencing, cell culture, and protein expression and purification. The research skills will be applicable to laboratory-based courses that might be taken in the student's final years of undergraduate study and will prepare them for graduate studies or lab-based work in the future. Secondly, research assistants can benefit from exposure to the latest scientific advances in the field, as they work alongside experienced scientists and principal investigators. This exposure can help them build their knowledge base and understand the latest research trends and techniques. Thirdly, research assistants can benefit from the opportunity to work on cutting-edge research projects and contribute to scientific publications and presentations. This experience can be valuable in developing critical thinking, problem-solving, and research skills, and can provide a strong foundation for further studies or a career in the field. Finally, research assistants can benefit from the opportunity to work as part of a team, collaborating with other researchers and scientists to achieve research goals. This experience can help develop teamwork, communication, and leadership skills, which can be valuable in a variety of professional settings. The experience of working in the team-based environment of a research laboratory is also transferable to the real-world working environment. |
Specific Skills / Knowledge / Experience Required
(Include Any Required Courses, Computer Programs, etc.):
Familiarity with using computers for word processing, spreadsheets, and figure preparation would be an advantage. Applicants should have completed at least two years in the Faculty of Science Biomedical Science program, or the Faculty of Engineering Biomedical Engineering program to give them the technical background required for the position. Additional skills requirements: • Good oral communication • Good written communication • Group facilitation • Knowledge of computer software • Managing Information • Presentation skills • Problem-solving and thinking • Research and use of numbers • Technical skills • Contribute to team goals • Event and project planning • Participate in projects and tasks • Respect differences • Work well with others • Goal setting • Positive attitude and behaviours • Task initiative • Time management • Being responsible and accountable. |