Research Assistant

Overview

Role Purpose

Strategic Responsibilities

• Support execution of research projects aligned with CATG therapeutic programs
• Assist in implementation of experimental plans and protocols
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (genomics, proteomics, bioinformatics)
• Contribute to maintaining high standards of laboratory practice and research quality

Core Responsibilities

• Perform and maintain cell culture under sterile conditions
• Conduct cell-based assays including viability, proliferation, and cytotoxicity studies
• Assist in ASO transfection experiments and therapeutic validation workflows
• Perform molecular biology techniques such as:
• RNA/DNA extraction
• qPCR / RT-PCR
• Gel electrophoresis
• Record, organize, and maintain accurate experimental data
• Assist in basic data analysis and result interpretation
• Support assay development and optimization activities
• Maintain laboratory inventory, reagents, and consumables
• Ensure compliance with biosafety and laboratory protocols

Community Service

• Seeks and develops relationship with suitable external partners to raise the profile of the College and the University.
• Provides opportunities for assisting professional colleagues to maintain and enhance their skills by offering Continuing Professional development in their specialty.

Self-Management Responsibilities

• Defines performance goals at the start of the year in discussion with the reporting manager and ensures that the goals are monitored and achieved during the year.
• Takes ownership of his/her own learning agenda by identifying development needs in consultation with the reporting manager and working towards bridging the gaps through various means which go beyond just training.
• Understands the competencies relevant to his/her role and works towards displaying as well as developing these effectively.
• Keeps abreast of relevant professional/industry developments, new techniques and current issues through continued education and professional networks.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in molecular biology, Biotechnology, Biochemistry, or related field
• 2-3 years of laboratory experience (academic or research setting)
• Strong hands-on experience in:
• Cell culture and various cell lines (MANDATORY)
• Aseptic techniques
• Basic molecular biology workflows

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in therapeutic research environments (ASO, RNA therapeutics, drug discovery, etc.)
• Familiarity with cell-based assays and transfection techniques
• Exposure to basic data analysis (qPCR, experimental data interpretation)
• Experience working in multidisciplinary research teams
• Written and spoken English is essential, Arabic is preferred
• Years of Experience:
• Bachelors/Masters in Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, Pharmacology, Biomedical Sciences, or a related field from an accredited institute/college/university.
• Minimum 2 to 3 years of experience in related field.