Research Assistant- AZ- Physiology at Midwestern University in Glendale, Arizona

Job Description:

Summary

Our lab investigates how complex vocal behavior in vertebrates is generated, controlled, and has evolved. The Research Assistant will assist with computer-based data analysis, including acoustic analysis using PRAAT and Avisoft software, coding in R, and segmenting anatomical structures using AVIZO software. The position may also involve assisting with cell culture. Additionally, the Research Assistant will help maintain a small mouse colony as part of the lab's daily routines. The position is under the direct supervision of the Principal Investigator (PI). This is a grant-funded position, with funding available for approximately 9 months.

PI website: https://facultyprofiles.midwestern.edu/40-tobias-riede/

Essential Responsibilities       

• Assist in the acoustic analysis of animal vocalizations


• Assist in the segmentation of anatomical structures of the upper airway, or assist in cell culture procedures


• Assist in daily routines of maintaining a small mouse colony


• Collect, analyze, and interpret data using statistical software, and present findings in clear, compelling reports


• Adheres to laboratory safety procedures


• Involved in standard maintenance of the lab

Qualifications

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Must be able to work in a constant state of alertness and safe manner and have regular, predictable, in-person attendance.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Education and/or Experience      

Bachelor’s degree in engineering or basic sciences related field with 0-2 years of related research experience.  This individual must have strong technical skills which includes excellent visual and graphical skills.

Computer Skills                                               

Computer proficiency in R is desired.

Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

This individual will frequently sit; use hands to finger, handle or feel; reach with hands and arms.  This individual will regularly be required to stand; walk; and push or pull equipment.  This individual will occasionally climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl; talk and hear.  This individual will regularly lift up to 10 pounds and occasionally lift up to 50 pounds.  Vision must be correctable to 20/20 in both eyes, depth, color and close vision; hearing correctable to normal. 

Work Environment

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to work near moving mechanical parts and vibration.  The employee is occasionally exposed to fumes or airborne particles. 

Midwestern University is a private, not-for-profit organization that provides graduate and post-graduate education in the health sciences. The University has two campuses, one in Downers Grove, Illinois and the other in Glendale, Arizona. More than 6,000 full-time students are enrolled in graduate programs in osteopathic medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, physician assistant studies, physical therapy, occupational therapy, nurse anesthesia, cardiovascular perfusion, podiatry, optometry, clinical psychology, speech language pathology, biomedical sciences and veterinary medicine. Over 500 full-time faculty members and 400 staff members are dedicated to the education and development of our students in an environment that encourages learning, respect for all members of the health care team, service, interdisciplinary scholarly activity, and personal growth.

We offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision insurance plans as well as life insurance, short/long term disability and pet insurance.  We offer flexible spending accounts including healthcare reimbursement and child/dependent care account.  We offer a work life balance with competitive time off package including paid holiday’s, sick/flex days, personal days and vacation days.  We offer a 403(b) retirement plan, tuition reimbursement, child care subsidy reimbursement program, identity theft protection and an employee assistance program.  Wellness is important to us and we offer a wellness facility on-site with a fully equipped fitness facility. 

Midwestern University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer that does not discriminate against an employee or applicant based upon race; color; religion; creed; national origin or ancestry; ethnicity; sex (including pregnancy); gender (including gender expressions, gender identity; and sexual orientation); marital status; age; disability; citizenship; past, current, or prospective service in the uniformed services; genetic information; or any other protected class, in accord with
all federal, state and local laws and regulation. Midwestern University complies with the Smoke-Free Arizona Act (A.R.S. 36-601.01) and the Smoke Free Illinois Act (410 ILCS 82/).  Midwestern University complies with the Illinois Equal Pay Act of 2003 and Arizona Equal Pay Acts.