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Molecular Biology Research Associate

Employer
Stanford University
Location
Mountain View, California, US
Salary
Competitive
Closing date
Jun 5, 2023

View more

Sector
Academic / Research
Field
Conservation science
Discipline
Biology
Salary Type
Salary
Employment Type
Full time
The Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology is seeking an experimental research associate (Life Science Research Professional 1) to join the Huttenhain Laboratory to study how signaling receptors, specifically G protein-coupled receptors, decode extracellular cues into dynamic and context-specific cellular signaling networks to elicit diverse physiologic responses. The ideal candidate will join the team in May 2023 or shortly after.

Lab overview: The communication between cells and their environment depends on a finely tuned decoding of extracellular cues into an array of intracellular signaling cascades that drive a cellular response. These signals are integrated through highly dynamic and context specific signaling networks that collectively define the phenotypic output. Given the complexity and dynamic state of signaling networks, the current understanding of their constituents and how they are spatiotemporally regulated as a result of a specific input is incomplete.

The Huttenhain lab, which launched in April 2023 at Stanford University, studies mechanisms of intracellular signal integration through G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) by employing an interdisciplinary approach to probe, model, and predict how signaling network dynamics translate extracellular cues into specific phenotypic outputs. Developing quantitative proteomics approaches to capture the spatiotemporal organization of signaling networks and combining these with functional genomics to study their impact on physiology, we aim to better understand GPCR signaling and provide a solid foundation for the design and testing of novel therapeutics targeting GPCRs with higher specificity and efficacy.

Job description: We are looking for an enthusiastic and creative person, for the role as research associate. Candidates are expected to perform experiments to tackle key questions and challenges in cellular signaling of GPCRs. Specific projects include for example supporting the development of proteomics workflows in iPSC-derived neuronal systems for spatiotemporal interrogation of signaling networks and probing agonist-dependent signaling and trafficking of the mu-opioid receptor in neurons. This role is an excellent opportunity to learn a number of valuable, cutting-edge techniques in cell and molecular biology as well as proteomics while working with a dynamic research team. The candidate will generate and characterize cell lines expressing affinity-tagged proteins of interest, perform affinity purifications and proximity labeling of proteins and their interactors for mass spectrometry analysis. The candidate will also have the opportunity to support the development and implementation of new protocols for mass spectrometry-based proteomics experiments.

The candidate should have experience with molecular and cell biology techniques; high level of initiative and motivation; ability to work independently and with a team; excellent communication, organization, and time management skills; creative thinking and passion for science.

The Huttenhain lab is a supportive and interdisciplinary workplace that provides exposure to innovative research and cutting-edge technologies. This position is a unique opportunity to set up a new laboratory, for scientific growth and development with the potential for widespread recognition of scientific contributions.

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

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS :

Bachelor's degree in molecular biology, cell biology, biochemistry, biophysics, or related field.
Proficiency with standard molecular biology techniques (cloning, PCR, mutagenesis), cell biology techniques (transfections and/or viral transductions) and biochemical techniques (protein purification, gel electrophoresis, Western blot).
Proficiency with cell culture techniques (eukaryotic and/or prokaryotic).
Strong analytical and quantitative skills and attention to detail.
Highly motivated, dedicated and independent.
Supportive team player.
Excellent laboratory management skills.
Effective verbal and written communication skills to interface with the team to review and analyze the results.
Excellent communication skills; will and ability to interact with all levels of staff, external contacts, students, trainees, and collaborators.
Able to work independently and meet deadlines; recognize and resolve problems with support from other lab members while maintaining a high level of organization.
Excellent lab notebook practices and attention to details.
Willingness to learn
Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, and/or Powerpoint) and preferentially experience with statistical data analysis.

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.

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.

WORK STANDARDS:

Interpersonal Skills: Demonstrates the ability to work well with Stanford colleagues and clients and with external organizations.
Promote Culture of Safety: Demonstrates commitment to personal responsibility and value for safety; communicates safety concerns; uses and promotes safe behaviors bases on training and lessons learned.
Subject to and expected to comply with all applicable University policies and procedures, including but not limited to the personnel policies and other policies found in the University's Administrative Guide, http://adminguide.stanford.edu.

The expected pay range for this position is $54,000 to $71,000 per annum. 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.

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