Stanford University is seeking a Life Science Research Professional 1 to perform basic functions and activities involved in defined research projects, and independently conduct and analyze experiments as part of the Translational Genomics of Diabetes. (TGD) laboratory. The Translational Genomics of Diabetes Laboratory headed by Dr Anna Gloyn is affiliated with the Division of Endocrinology in the department of Pediatrics. The overall research focus of the lab is to use human genetics to understand pancreatic islet dysfunction in type 2 diabetes and related disorders and to leverage this for precision medicine. The TGD Laboratory is physically located at Porter Drive with research groups from the Department of Genetics.

The Department of Pediatrics in the Stanford University School of Medicine is committed to advancing the health of infants, children, and adolescents through innovative medical care, research, training, and advocacy. With over 400 pediatricians and pediatric subspecialties, our department is one of the largest in the Stanford University School of Medicine. Ranked among the top in the nation by US News and World Report, we attract medical students, interns, residents, and postdoctoral fellows from around the world. In partnership with Lucile Packard Children's Hospital Stanford, Stanford Children's Health and other hospital partners and affiliations, our programs and services offer state-of-the-art primary and specialty care. Our researchers and clinicians collaborate across the bench-to-bedside-to-backyard continuum, transforming their discoveries into the most effective diagnostics, treatments and prevention therapies available today. The Division of Pediatric Endocrinology & Diabetes in the Department of Pediatrics, successfully combines the worlds of investigation, innovation, and clinical care to improve the diagnosis and treatment of endocrine disorders.

The Translational Genomics of Diabetes Laboratory

https://med.stanford.edu/genomics-of-diabetes.html

We aim to understand the genetic basis of diabetes and related metabolic conditions and to use this to leverage a better understanding of what causes diabetes and how we can improve treatment options for patients. Our work is predominantly focused on understanding what causes pancreatic islets to release insufficient insulin to control blood glucose levels after a meal in patients with type 2 diabetes but often extends to efforts to relate this to metabolic dysfunction in other relevant tissues such as fat and liver.

We are an inter-disciplinary team of basic and clinical scientists with shared interests in using molecular genetics as a tool to uncover novel biology. We use a variety of different approaches to address important challenges in the field, which range from studies that work genome wide to those which are focused on specific genes and even precise nucleotide changes to understand their impact on pancreatic islet biology.

We have developed a series of pipelines that use primary human islets and authentic beta-cell models which allow us to generate and then integrate complex genomic, transcriptomic and cellular datasets. We use state-of-the art genome engineering approaches combined with induced pluripotent stem-cells to study the impact of T2D-associated genetic variants on islet cell development and function. We are also funded to investigate the impact of genes involved in diabetes risk on mitochondrial function in pancreatic beta-cells using authentic human cell models. A major interest in our lab is generating comprehensive maps of variant effects in genes involved in monogenic forms of diabetes to remove diagnostic uncertainty for patients undergoing genetic testing.

We are a highly collaborative team and work with multiple national and international consortia involved in efforts to understand the genetic basis of type 2 diabetes and related glycemic traits (MAGIC). We are also part of several Innovative Medicines Initiatives (IMIs) efforts and Horizon 2020 initiatives, which are working to develop tools and frameworks to capitalize on genetic and genomic data. We are also part of the NIDDK funded Human Islet Research Network (HIRN) where we play a role in two of their initiatives. The Human Pancreas Atlas Program- T2 (HPAP-T2D) and the Integrated Islet Phenotype Program (IIPP). Our role is to support the genetic and genomic characterization of islets which are distributed for research and to support the genomic characterization of the pancreas’ phenotyped within the HPAP-T2D program.

Our work extends to playing a role in the interpretation of genetic variants identified in genes with known roles in monogenic forms of diabetes. We are part of the Clin Gen Expert Review Panel for Monogenic Diabetes where are expertise contributes to interpretation of coding alleles in glucokinase (GCK) and Hepatocyte Nuclear Factor 1 alpha (HNF1A). We have multiple on-going projects which are supporting efforts to better improve diagnostic accuracy for patients with diabetes.

Duties include:

· Plan approach to experiments in support of research projects in lab and/or field based on knowledge of scientific theory.

· Independently conduct experiments; maintain detailed records of experiments and outcomes.

· Apply the theories and methods of a life science discipline to interpret and perform analyses of experiment results; offer suggestions regarding modifications to procedures and protocols in collaboration with senior researcher.

· Review literature on an ongoing basis to remain current with new procedures and apply learnings to related research.

· Contribute to publication of findings as needed. Participate in the preparation of written documents, including procedures, presentations, and proposals.

· Help with general lab maintenance as needed; maintain lab stock, manage chemical inventory and safety records, and provide general lab support as needed.

· Assist with orientation and training of new staff or students on lab procedures or techniques.

*- Other duties may also be assigned

Stanford University provides pay ranges representing its good faith estimate of what the University reasonably expects to pay for a position. The pay offered to a selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the qualifications of the selected candidate, departmental budget availability, internal equity, geographic location and external market pay for comparable jobs. The hourly rate for this position working in the California Bay area is between $32.58 to $38.48 based on commensurate experience and background.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

· A Bachelors Degree in biology, genetics, biochemistry or in a similar biomedical-related area

· Previous experience in molecular biology protocols such as DNA purification, PCR and molecular cloning.

· Previous experience in handling cultured or primary cell samples.

· Experience in DNA sequencing and demonstration of a good understanding of Next Generation Sequencing techniques including library preparation.

· Evidence of a meticulous approach to lab work with good manual manipulation and demonstrated ability to maintain clear and comprehensive hard-copy and electronic records of work undertaken.

· Ability to work as a team member or independently, taking advice when appropriate but also using initiative and taking ownership of work when required.

· An approachable, helpful attitude with excellent interpersonal and communication skills to interact with others at all levels.

· A high level of organizational skills to plan own work, basic experiments and to troubleshoot problems.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE (REQUIRED):

Bachelor's degree in related scientific field.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (REQUIRED):

· General understanding of scientific principles. Demonstrated performance to use knowledge and skills when needed.

· Demonstrated ability to apply theoretical knowledge of science principals to problem solve work.

· Ability to maintain detailed records of experiments and outcomes.

· General computer skills and ability to quickly learn and master computer programs, databases, and scientific applications.

· Ability to work under deadlines with general guidance.

· Excellent organizational skills and demonstrated ability to accurately complete detailed work.

CERTIFICATIONS & LICENSES:

None

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS*:

· Frequently stand, walk, twist, bend, stoop, squat, grasp lightly, use fine manipulation, grasp forcefully, perform desk-based computer tasks, use telephone, write by hand, lift, carry, push and pull objects weighing over 40 pounds.

· Occasionally sit, kneel, crawl, reach and work above shoulders, sort and file paperwork or parts.

· Rarely climb, scrub, sweep, mop, chop and mix or operate hand and foot controls.

· Must have correctible vision to perform duties of the job.

· Ability to bend, squat, kneel, stand, reach above shoulder level, and move on hard surfaces for up to eight hours.

· Ability to lift heavy objects weighing up to 50 pounds.

· Ability to work in a dusty, dirty, and odorous environment.

· Position may require repetitive motion.

*- Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodation to any employee with a disability who requires accommodation to perform the essential functions of his or her job.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

· May require working in close proximity to blood borne pathogens.

· May require work in an environment where animals are used for teaching and research.

· Position may at times require the employee to work with or be in areas where hazardous materials and/or infectious diseases are present.

· Employee must perform tasks that require the use of personal protective equipment, such as safety glasses and shoes, protective clothing and gloves, and possibly a respirator.

· May require extended or unusual work hours based on research requirements and business needs.

~ All members of the Department of Pediatrics are engaged in continuous learning and improvement to foster a culture where diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice are central to all aspects of our work. The Department collectively and publicly commits to continuously promoting anti-racism and equity through its policies, programs, and practices at all levels. ~

Research Asst in Diabetes Genetics Rsch

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