Who We Are
The Institute for Neurodegenerative Diseases of Florida (IND) is dedicated to the prevention and treatment of neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs) such as Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), and Lewy Body Dementia (LBD). Our team supports individuals at risk for or affected by these conditions and strives to advance clinical care and research in this field. In addition to conducting cutting-edge research, we provide education, support services, community outreach, and wellness activities for those impacted by NDDs.
IND offers competitive salaries and a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, paid holidays, and time off.
Role Description
IND is seeking a highly motivated Research Assistant to support ongoing studies investigating plasma-based biomarkers related to NDDs at our Boca Raton, FL laboratory. This full-time, onsite role involves laboratory-based work including sample processing, assay execution, data collection, and the analysis and reporting of experimental results. The ideal candidate will have strong hands-on experience in laboratory techniques and familiarity with molecular biology and proteomics methods. This position offers opportunities for professional development, including potential authorship on scientific publications and participation in national and international conferences.
Responsibilities
- Process whole blood samples into plasma and/or serum
- Accurately document all laboratory procedures and protocols
- Receive, ship, organize, and maintain inventory of plasma samples, assays, and laboratory supplies.
- Coordinate and track the delivery and receipt of samples
- Collect, enter, organize, and maintain both new and existing datasets
- Design, plan, and execute experiments collaboratively with the research team
- Actively participate in team research meetings and discussions
- Maintain laboratory inventory and order necessary supplies
- Prepare research reports, presentations, and other scientific documentation
- Operate standard molecular biology equipment (centrifuges, pipettes, etc.)
- Prepare reagents and execute assays
- Proficiency in reagent preparation and assay execution
- Safely handle, lift, and organize laboratory equipment and supplies (up to 30 pounds as needed).
This list of duties and responsibilities is not intended to be all-inclusive and may be expanded to include other duties or responsibilities as necessary.
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Life Sciences, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, or a related field
- Prior experience with wet lab/bench work (experience in NDDs is a plus)
- Experience with reagent preparation and assay execution
- Experience operating standard molecular biology equipment (centrifuges, pipettes, vortex mixers, etc.)
- Strong understanding of laboratory safety protocols
- Familiarity with data analysis tools such as Excel, Google Sheets, and GraphPad Prism
Skills
- Excellent time management and organizational skills
- Ability to prioritize tasks and manage multiple long-term projects effectively
- Exceptional attention to detail in both experimental procedures and documentation
- Ability to develop, follow, and refine Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
- Accurate data and sample entry and management
- Experience with plasma separation cards