UT Student Assistant-Pharmaceutical Sciences

The Pharmacy Student Researcher provides support for ongoing research projects in the Hevener Laboratory, focusing on molecular biology, protein biochemistry, enzymology, and structural biology. Under direct supervision, the student will assist with experimental procedures such as molecular cloning, bacterial culture, protein expression and purification, enzyme assays, and related laboratory operations. Additional responsibilities include laboratory maintenance, preparation of reagents, documentation of results, and participation in laboratory meetings. This position is designed to offer pharmacy students meaningful exposure to biomedical research, strengthen foundational laboratory skills, and support the mission, vision, and values of the UTHSC College of Pharmacy.

Responsibilities Laboratory Research (Primary Duties)

• Assist in the planning and execution of experiments related to recombinant DNA, bacterial culture, protein purification, and enzyme characterization.
• Prepare reagents, buffers, solutions, stock supplies, media, and other laboratory materials needed for experiments.
• Maintain detailed records of procedures, data, and results, including scientific calculations, graphing, and basic statistical summaries.
• Use and maintain laboratory instrumentation, which may include spectrophotometers, chromatography systems, centrifuges, thermocyclers, plate readers, pH meters, biosafety hoods, incubators, gel documentation systems, and light microscopes.

Scientific Communication & Engagement

• Prepare figures or short summaries of results for internal lab meetings.
• Attend and participate in weekly laboratory meetings, journal clubs, or collaborative sessions.
• Conduct background literature searches relevant to assigned projects.

Laboratory Operations

• Assist in maintaining laboratory supplies and inventory; notify the supervisor when stock levels need replenishment.
• Help maintain a clean and organized laboratory space consistent with safety and compliance standards.
• Follow standard operating procedures for equipment handling, biological safety, and chemical hygiene.

Required QUALIFICATIONS

• Enrollment as a Pharmacy (PharmD) student at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center.
• Interest in biomedical, biochemical, or pharmaceutical sciences.

Preferred

• Prior laboratory coursework or lab experience in biology, chemistry, microbiology, or related fields.
• Familiarity with basic laboratory techniques (pipetting, solution preparation, sterile technique).

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities

• Knowledge of basic scientific principles in biology, chemistry, or biochemistry consistent with entry ‑ level laboratory coursework.
• Skill in standard laboratory techniques (pipetting, measuring, solution prep).
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions accurately.
• Ability to maintain clear, organized laboratory records.
• Skill in reading, reviewing, and interpreting scientific literature at a fundamental level.
• Ability to communicate effectively with laboratory personnel and other members of the research team.
• Ability to manage time efficiently and complete tasks in an organized, timely manner.

Supervision Received SUPERVISION PROVIDED BY THIS POSITION:

• Work is closely monitored by the supervisor (Dr. Kirk Hevener or designated senior lab personnel). Tasks follow established protocols and procedures.

Supervision Provided

• This position does not include supervisory responsibilities, but the student may assist in mentoring visiting students on basic lab tasks if directed.

Physical Demands/Conditions

• Standing, walking, talking, hearing, and use of hands for laboratory tasks are frequently required.

• Work may involve a typical laboratory environment, including exposure to:

• biohazardous materials (BSL 1 and BSL 2 organisms)

• laboratory chemicals

• mechanical equipment

• Personal protective equipment (PPE) such as lab coat, safety glasses, and gloves is required.

• No heavy lifting beyond 25 lbs is expected.

Work Schedule

• 4 to 8 hours per week during academic semesters.
• 20 hours per week during summers.
• First shift, flexible scheduling based on class obligations.
• Occasional extended hours may be permitted for experiments requiring time ‑ dependent steps (optional, not required).

Additional Information This position is designed to support student professional development and provide a hands-on research experience contributing to ongoing projects within the Hevener Lab. Students may have opportunities to contribute to abstracts, posters, or publications if their work supports such outcomes.