Lab Tech/Specialist Flowers Lab

The Flowers Lab (flowerslab.org) is focused on understanding the very early stages of Alzheimer's disease pathogenesis, and using this knowledge for the effective diagnosis and treatment of AD. One of the main focuses of the lab is understanding the impact of the glycoprotein, Apolipoprotein E (APOE), on the early pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD) and how APOE genotype impacts AD treatment. APOE is the most significant genetic risk factor for Alzheimer's disease, despite this, there is a lot we do not understand about how APOE conveys this risk. We use human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), mouse models, and advanced technologies including mass spectrometry to better understand the changes that occur in AD. We are searching for a new lab member to aid us with this important work.

Position Summary

This individual (Lab Tech or Specialist/varying levels depending on experience) will be responsible for and help facilitate research related to understanding the significance of APOE in biomarker studies and drug studies including with benfotiamine. They will be responsible for carrying out studies using AD mouse models and maintenance of the mouse colony. They will also be involved in culturing and differentiation of iPSCs into a range of cell types as well as carrying out cell, biochemical and molecular biology assays. They will prepare samples for mass spectrometric analyses and work with a range of patient and iPSC-derived samples. The candidate will work with other members of the group invested in this project to maintain cells, carry out experiments, analyze data, as well as documenting and reporting on results to the group. A smaller part of this role will involve routine but important lab maintenance and administration tasks.

Responsibilities

The individual hired for this position will work closely with Dr. Flowers, Dr. Fernandez and other lab members. They will attend lab meetings weekly and project meetings weekly or more often as necessary. They will be trained and receive guidance on a day-to-day basis to facilitate the goals of the project and ensure their training. The individual hired is expected to interact professionally and collegially with all lab members including graduate and undergraduate students, treating all lab members with respect and consideration. The hired individual can expect to work in a respectful, open and supportive environment focused on doing good science. There will be many opportunities to learn a range of lab skills.

The successful candidate should possess excellent attention to detail and strong problem solving and record-keeping skills. They will be a clear and open communicator and be motivated to learn new laboratory skills and contribute to the goals of the lab. They will be careful in the lab with their own work and the work of others. Knowledge of basic cell biology and biochemistry is required. Demonstrated experience working with mice and maintaining a mouse colony is highly preferred. Any experience with biochemical or cell-based assays, mass spectrometry and molecular biology techniques such as PCR would also be an advantage. Any previous experience in neuroscience, Alzheimer's disease or APOE research would be highly advantageous.