Palo Alto Veterans Institute for Research

Life Sciences Research Assistant – Stem Cell Biology and Neuroscience

PALO ALTO, CAPosted 30+ days ago

Job summary

  • Job post source

    This job is directly from Palo Alto Veterans Institute for Research

  • Job overview

    The Life Sciences Research Assistant supports stem cell biology and neuroscience research under Dr. Irene Lorenzo Llorente at PAVIR, contributing to human pluripotent stem cell projects and animal studies.

  • Responsibilities and impact

    The role involves maintaining stem cell cultures, performing molecular biology and cellular analysis techniques, operating lab instruments, conducting animal surgeries and behavioral testing, managing lab supplies, ensuring regulatory compliance, and preparing research documentation.

  • Compensation and benefits

    The position offers comprehensive health, vision, and dental insurance, 14 paid holidays, paid vacation and sick leave, a 401(k) plan with company match and profit sharing, wellness and commuter benefits, professional development training, and life and disability insurance.

  • Experience and skills

    Candidates need a Bachelor's degree with 0-1 year lab experience; preferred qualifications include a degree in biological sciences or related fields, over 1 year of research experience, animal and human tissue handling willingness, strong organizational skills, and teamwork ability.

  • Career development

    Professional development training is provided, supporting skill advancement and career growth within the research environment.

  • Work environment and culture

    PAVIR promotes a diverse, inclusive, and supportive workplace focused on innovative health research and collaboration among talented medical scientists.

  • Company information

    PAVIR is a nonprofit foundation affiliated with the VA Palo Alto Health Care System, supporting one of the nation's largest VA hospital research programs with over 160 medical scientists.

  • Team overview

    The candidate will join Dr. Irene Lorenzo Llorente's human stem cell biology and neuroscience lab team at Stanford University and the Palo Alto VA Medical Center.

  • Job location and travel

    The job is located at Stanford University and the Palo Alto VA Medical Center, with no specific travel requirements mentioned and likely a lab-based setting.

  • Application process

    Applicants should complete a 3-minute mobile-friendly application and may submit a cover letter explaining qualifications and career goals; background checks and VA appointment approval are required before employment.

  • Unique job features

    The role offers unique opportunities to work with advanced stem cell techniques, CRISPR genome editing, animal behavioral testing, and cutting-edge lab instrumentation in a prestigious research environment.

Company overview

Palo Alto Veterans Institute for Research (PAVIR) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing veterans' health through innovative research. They collaborate with the VA Palo Alto Health Care System and academic institutions to conduct clinical trials, epidemiological studies, and health services research. PAVIR generates revenue through grants, contracts, and philanthropic donations. Established in 1988, the institute has a long history of contributing to medical advancements and improving the quality of life for veterans.

How to land this job

  • Tailor your resume to emphasize hands-on experience or strong interest in human pluripotent stem cell culture, CRISPR genome editing, and molecular biology techniques such as PCR and immunohistochemistry, as these are key to the Research Assistant role at PAVIR.

  • Highlight your ability to work independently and collaboratively on research projects, showcasing your organizational skills, attention to detail, and capacity to manage multiple tasks and deadlines effectively.

  • Apply through multiple platforms including the Palo Alto Veterans Institute for Research official career site and LinkedIn to maximize your visibility and chances of being noticed for this position.

  • Connect with current researchers or lab members in the stem cell biology and neuroscience division at PAVIR on LinkedIn; use ice breakers like commenting on recent publications from Dr. Irene Lorenzo Llorente’s lab or expressing enthusiasm for their work on human stem cells and neuroscience.

  • Optimize your resume for ATS by incorporating keywords from the job description such as 'human pluripotent stem cells,' 'CRISPR genome editing,' 'flow cytometry,' 'animal behavioral testing,' and 'molecular biology techniques' to ensure your application passes initial screenings.

  • Utilize Jennie Johnson's Power Apply feature to automate tailoring your resume, identifying multiple application channels, and finding relevant LinkedIn contacts to network with, allowing you to focus your time on preparing for interviews and advancing your career.

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