This will be a 100% FTE appointment that requires expertise in cell culture, protein expression and purification, DNA cloning and site-directed mutagenesis. This position requires the ability to effectively perform research and take responsibility for assuring quality, cost-effectiveness, and timeliness for large size projects.
The successful applicant will join a research project at the interface of biochemistry, structural biology, biophysics, and vaccine design. Our work focuses on structural and functional studies of influenza virus and HIV cell entry machinery with translational applications in the development of vaccines and virus inhibitors. The research is highly interdisciplinary and collaborative, which provides the opportunity to interact with scientists from different fields. In addition, the individual will have the opportunity to gain experience in advanced mass spectrometry, electron microscopy, spectroscopy, and virology.
Main research responsibilities include:
– Implement a pipe-line for recombinant protein expression and purification (this is currently being performed by multiple people in the lab, and we seek to consolidate this into a pipeline the new scientist would run).
– Carry out mutagenesis and cloning of new constructs for protein expression
– Assess the state of the purified materials using biochemical and biophysical assays such as SDS-PAGE, native gels, electron microscopy, light scattering, etc. Training available for biophysical approaches.
– Analyze, compile and prepare data for publications and grant applications.
– General lab functions including making solutions, weighing reagents, making buffers, setting up laboratory apparatus and instructions, reading and recording instrument data, keep laboratory records, taking part in preparing results for publications, maintaining cell culture and ordering lab supplies.
– Other duties around the lab as assigned and needed.
Requirements:
Bachelors degree or higher in biochemistry or related fields, and at least 1-3 years of experience in biological research wet lab environment.
Ability to work in biological wet lab environment: make buffers and solutions, express and purify proteins; keep lab records and experiment notebook. Experience running SDS-PAGE, gel filtration and ion-exchange chromatography, ELISA and related biochemical assays.