Career Center

Description

The McCracken Lab investigates kidney development using human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs), organoids, and mouse models. The goals of the laboratory include the elucidation of basic embryologic mechanisms, the application of in vitro models to understanding human kidney development and congenital defects, and engineering of complex tissue models for kidney regenerative medicine.

Given the enormous need in kidney biology and nephrology for novel experimental models and regenerative approaches, the McCracken Lab develops strategies to derive kidney tissues from hPSCs, with a particular interest in the developing collecting system. Recent work enabled the differentiation of branching epithelial organoids, which the lab uses to understand how the collecting system is built during organogenesis. This platform also provides tissues to model renal physiology and gain insights into disease pathogenesis, including congenital kidney anomalies observed in newborns.

REPRESENTATIVE RESPONSIBILITIES

???Perform experiments and record data
Follow established research protocols. Understand the scientific principles involved in the research. Apply those principles to troubleshoot and modify procedures and techniques when appropriate. Maintain accurate and detailed records of all laboratory work and experiments. Analyze data and perform statistical and graphical analysis of data. Design and execute daily laboratory experiments in coordination with senior laboratory personnel. Apply standard protocols to specific experiments. Assists in training post doctoral fellows, graduate students, and junior laboratory personnel in laboratory techniques and equipment. Capable of directing an undergraduate trainee in simple, well-established procedures. Maintains an active role in laboratory's meetings, presentations, and publications. Contributes material for reports, publications, journal articles, and abstracts. Able to orally present data in group presentations.

???Research and improve current methods
Utilize internal and external resources to reproduce, evaluate, research, and improve techniques, bring in new techniques or modify existing techniques. Evaluate innovative techniques

???Lab Administration
Troubleshoot and correct erroneous results or problems with laboratory equipment. Troubleshoot and/or make modifications as necessary to established procedures. Maintain inventory of laboratory supplies and equipment. Maintain cell cultures. Operate standard laboratory equipment. Willing and able to assist in daily operations of the laboratory including answering phone, maintaining lab supplies, organization, and cleanliness. Maintains optimal protocol and assay accuracy by conducting regular quality checks. Provides appropriate safety monitoring checks as assigned (radiation safety, biosafety, etc.)

???Serve as a Resource
Demonstrate competence in specific knowledge, skills and behaviors. Effectively communicate with team members and contribute to their growth by sharing knowledge, experience, and skills. Stay abreast of changes in key systems. Serve as a resource to the department in specific area(s).

???Customer Service
Maintain/manage strong working relationships with clients, colleagues, and other key stakeholders. Respond to requests quickly and effectively. Identify and understand customer needs and expectations and meets them. Communicate any relevant information to clients, colleagues, and other key stakeholders.

Qualifications

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE

Required:
???Bachelor's degree in a related field
??? 1 year of work experience in a related job discipline OR Master's degree in a related field

Preferred Skills:

• • Expertise in basic cell culture techniques and/or experience in stem cell culture
  • Familiarity with molecular assays such as qPCR, immunofluorescent staining, and flow cytometry
  • Experience or training in molecular cloning and/or gene editing would be preferred
  • Willingness to work in a collaborative environment with other team members