Research Associate (BRaVE Phage Foundry)

Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory•Berkeley, CA

9h•$29 - $37•Onsite

About The Position

Berkeley Lab’s (LBNL) Environmental Genomics and Systems Biology (EGSB) Division has an opening for a Research Associate to join the BRaVE Phage Foundry! In this exciting role, you will focus on establishing a high-throughput platform for the systematic characterization of phages and the conjugation processes involved in horizontal gene transfer. This role will isolate conjugation plasmids and bacteriophages from bacterial pathogens across diverse environments. You will conduct experimental characterizations of conjugation processes and phage-host interactions, construct barcoded libraries, and prepare samples for Next-Generation Sequencing. You will perform assay workflows to assess phage-antibiotic combinations, assay phage engineering approaches, and follow established protocols to evolve plasmids with specific functional traits.

Requirements

A Bachelor’s Degree (or equivalent knowledge/training) in Microbiology, Virology, Genetics, Biochemistry, Bioengineering, Synthetic Biology, Genomics, Molecular Biology, or a related field and a minimum of 1 year of relevant experience working with genome and plasmid preparation, PCR, and gel electrophoresis or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
General knowledge of handling bacteria, conjugation plasmids, and phage strains, including their isolation and characterization.
General knowledge of Next-Generation Sequencing technologies.
General knowledge of sample collection and processing techniques.
Familiarity with molecular cloning, media formulations, and strain archiving.
Strong organizational and record-keeping skills, including the ability to organize and present project updates.
Demonstrated communication skills including the ability to work with an interdisciplinary research team.

Nice To Haves

Familiarity with at least one programming language, such as Perl or Python.

Responsibilities

Apply diverse methods to conjugate plasmids isolated from a variety of environments.
Perform genome-wide screening assays.
Prepare samples for Next-Generation Sequencing.
Maintain clear and accurate experimental records.
Optimize the growth conditions of bacterial pathogens and perform genetic manipulations.
Conduct phage evolution experiments, including sample collection and processing.
Execute experimental protocols to study phage combinations with antibiotics, metals, and other chemicals.
Assist with developing and refining robotic automation protocols and tools for enhanced research productivity.
Attend weekly and monthly team meetings and provide an update on the project.