Research Scientist/Engineer 2, SeaHub

University of Washington•Seattle, WA

About The Position

The Department of Genome Sciences at the University of Washington is hiring a Research Scientist/Engineer 2 to work in the Pinglay lab at the Seattle Hub for Synthetic Biology (SeaHub). Reporting to the Principal Investigator, the researcher will conduct molecular and cellular biology, DNA sequencing, and data analysis experiments. The lab develops synthetic biology approaches to understand and control gene expression, manipulate genome structure, and engineer novel cellular states. Its research includes using AI models and large-scale DNA synthesis to program desired gene expression patterns in mammalian systems. The researcher will develop and perform established laboratory protocols, culture mammalian cells in a Biosafety Level 2 environment, construct next-generation sequencing libraries, and perform basic data analysis. The role includes conducting an independent or existing research project, preparing figures and presentation materials, contributing to publications and grant proposals, presenting at scientific meetings, and helping maintain lab organization. There will be opportunities for publications and scientific presentations. The position’s working environment is approximately 70% wet BSL2 lab and 30% dry lab. SeaHub is a multi-institutional initiative involving the Allen Institute, the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative, and the University of Washington. It develops technologies for molecular recording in living cells and serves as an organizing center for Seattle’s synthetic biology community. Its scientific infrastructure includes DNA sequencers, tissue culture spaces, and laboratory automation.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in biology, molecular biology, genetics, or a related field, and two years of relevant experience; equivalent education and/or experience may substitute where permitted.
Experience working in a laboratory or research setting with molecular biology workflows, cloning, and tissue culture processing in a BSL2 environment, particularly stem cells.
Ability to develop and perform established molecular and cellular protocols and conduct mammalian cell culture in a BSL2 environment.
Strong organizational skills and a strong sense of initiative.
A cover letter is required.

Nice To Haves

Experience constructing next-generation sequencing libraries, such as RNA-seq or ChIP-seq, and conducting follow-up data analysis.
Experience designing and implementing laboratory automation.
Experience with Python, R, or a similar programming language.
Demonstrated commitment to building an inclusive working and learning environment.

Responsibilities

Develop and perform routine molecular and cellular protocols, including mammalian stem cell tissue culture in a BSL2 environment and nucleic acid amplification.
Conduct an independent research project and/or further an existing lab research project through hands-on molecular and cellular biology work and DNA sequencing, including construction of next-generation sequencing libraries.
Analyze data and prepare presentation materials such as figures and slides.
Assist with preparing publications and grant proposals.
Present research at scientific meetings.
Assist with laboratory organization and upkeep.