Research Assistant, Biochemistry, Karbstein

Vanderbilt University•Nashville, TN

About The Position

The Karbstein Lab in the Department of Biochemistry at Vanderbilt University is seeking an enthusiastic molecular biology/biochemistry research assistant to aid in the lab's studies of ribosome assembly, quality control and repair. In addition to providing a better understanding about the cellular mechanisms underlying ribosome integrity, this basic science work is highly relevant to cancer biology, the biology of aging. The lab relies heavily on biochemistry and molecular biology, as well as yeast genetics. For examples of the type of research that will be undertaken see: Blomqvist et al, 2023, PLoS Genetics; Yang et al, 2023, Mol Cell; and Parker et al, 2024, PLoS Biology; Yang&Karbstein, BioRxiv 2024. The lab is a mid-sized lab seeking a research associate who will spend their time performing research, with some time spent maintaining lab infrastructure. The new research associate will be directly mentored and instructed by Dr. Karbstein, the Principle Investigator, and plan, conduct, interpret and present research. The laboratory is a supportive, fast-paced environment for driven candidates who enjoy a collaborative atmosphere. It is expected that the new research associate will produce enough data for a first author publication within 1-2 years of joining the lab. The lab strives to be a diverse, inclusive, and equitable working environment; prioritizes personal growth and wellness; and is committed to work-life balance. Overall, this is an excellent opportunity for an experienced researcher who enjoys the independence of an academic lab.

Requirements

A Bachelor’s degree in cellular biology, molecular biology, biochemistry, or a related field from an accredited institution of higher education and a minimum of four years of experience is required
Ability to perform all basic calculations related to buffer composition (Molarity, dilution factor, etc.) is necessary
Being comfortable in learning new assays is necessary

Nice To Haves

Experience in RNA biochemistry is an asset
Computational experience is preferred

Responsibilities

Purifies ribosomes from various organisms for mass spectrometry analysis
Uses protein gels, Western blotting and mass spectrometry to analyze ribosome assembly factors and ribosomal proteins
Uses Northern blotting to analyze ribosome assembly in cells
Uses agarose gels to analyze PCR screens and PCR reactions
Generates yeast and worm strains and human cell lines
Uses quantitative growth measurements to monitor genetic interactions
Designs and clones proteins and RNAs for yeast, worm or human in vivo work and in vitro assays
Analyzes RNAseq data
Analyzes experiments independently and prepares them for presentation to the PI
Might supervise interns, work-study students or undergraduate researchers.