Lab Specialist, Microbiology

University of Virginia•Charlottesville, VA

2d•Onsite

About The Position

The Tak Lab in the Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Cancer Biology at the University of Virginia School of Medicine, is seeking a Laboratory Specialist to explore the molecular evolution of antiviral immune signaling systems in bacteria and humans. This position is ideal for candidates who are excited to discover novel molecular machinery and immune pathways that organisms use to defend against viral infection in an exciting new field at the interface of microbiology, immunology, and biochemistry. The chosen candidate will work closely with the PI to study novel bacterial immune systems and how they sense and neutralize infection by bacterial viruses (bacteriophages). Research activities include, but are not limited to, bacterial growth assays, molecular cloning, PCR, nucleic acid isolation, bacteriophage infection assays, purification of recombinant proteins for biochemical and structural analysis. Additional duties include laboratory organization, purchasing, maintenance of molecular inventories, and biosafety. The position requires frequent use of scientific literature, appropriate experimental documentation, data analysis, clear data presentation, a collaborative attitude, and participation in group project meetings. Additional requirements include attention to detail in experimental work and record keeping, ability to handle multiple assignments, self-motivation and eagerness to acquire new skills. This position is ideal both for those seeking a long-term research scientist position, and for those seeking experience in preparation for doctoral-level research programs. The chosen candidate will have the opportunity to co-author manuscripts that will be peer-reviewed for publication in premier scientific journals. Preference will be given to candidates with a background in microbiology or biochemistry.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree (preferably in a STEM field); may accept combination of experience/education/certification in lieu of degree.
1 year of experience, 2 years preferred. 4 years of lab-related experience accepted in lieu of degree.
Prior experience with molecular cloning or biochemistry is preferred.
Frequent use of scientific literature.
Appropriate experimental documentation.
Data analysis.
Clear data presentation.
Collaborative attitude.
Participation in group project meetings.
Attention to detail in experimental work and record keeping.
Ability to handle multiple assignments.
Self-motivation and eagerness to acquire new skills.
Pipetting
Computer use
Fine motor skills
Visual acuity

Nice To Haves

Background in microbiology or biochemistry.

Responsibilities

Construction of plasmid expression vectors using PCR, Gibson assembly, plasmid miniprep purification, and sequencing.
Bacterial transformation, growth assays, and bacteriophage infection assays.
Growth and infection assays using 96-well plate microplate reader.
Western blotting analysis of proteins from cell lysates.
Molecular biology and protein biochemistry assays as projects evolve.
Data documentation, and analysis using LabArchives, GraphPad Prism, Geneious Prime, Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, and other software as needed.
Maintenance of laboratory stocks and solutions and laboratory organization.