Research Scientist/Engineer 2 (NE S UAW Research)

University of Washington • Seattle, WA

10d • Onsite

About The Position

The Department of Pharmacology at the Wisedchaisri’s Lab has an outstanding opportunity for Research Scientist/Engineer 2 to join their team. The Department of Pharmacology at the Wisedchaisri Lab investigates the structure and mechanism of voltage-gated ion channels, their interactions with drugs and neurotoxins, and the structural basis of human channelopathies caused by disease-associated mutations. We combine structural biology approaches, including X-ray crystallography and cryogenic electron microscopy (cryo-EM), with biochemistry and electrophysiology to perform comprehensive structural and functional studies of ion channels. Our goal is to uncover fundamental mechanistic insights that advance our understanding of ion channel function in health and disease and enable the development of innovative therapeutic strategies. About this Opportunity: Report to Research Assistant Professor, this Research Scientist will conduct independent and collaborative research focused on the overexpression, purification, and structural characterization of insect and human voltage-gated sodium channels in complex with insecticides. The successful candidate will investigate the molecular mechanisms of insecticide action on sodium channels and characterize insecticide–sodium channel binding interactions. This position will contribute to advancing our understanding of the molecular basis of insecticide selectivity and efficacy.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in biology, biochemistry, molecular biology, or related field and two years of laboratory experience.
• Extensive experience with molecular biology techniques.
• Extensive experience with recombinant protein expression in mammalian expression systems and protein purification using FPLC systems.
• Demonstrated expertise in high-resolution cryo-EM, including grid preparation, high-throughput data collection, and image processing.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with membrane protein structural biology.
• Experience training and supporting laboratory personnel.

Responsibilities

• Perform molecular biology techniques, including PCR, DNA isolation, cloning, sequencing, and construct generation.
• Perform mammalian and insect cell culture, recombinant protein expression, protein purification, protein biochemistry, and ligand-binding assays.
• Perform cryo-EM experiments, including grid preparation, grid screening, data collection, image processing, and three-dimensional structure determination.
• Design, execute, and troubleshoot experiments to achieve research objectives.
• Manage research projects of moderate scope and evaluate the feasibility of experimental approaches.
• Develop, optimize, and implement new experimental procedures and improve existing protocols.
• Prepare and maintain laboratory reagents, solutions, and research materials.
• Assist with laboratory organization, equipment maintenance, and implementation of laboratory best practices.
• Train laboratory personnel in experimental techniques and standard operating procedures.
• Maintain detailed and accurate experimental records.
• Analyze, interpret, and present experimental data.
• Present research findings at laboratory and sponsor meetings.
• Prepare publication-quality figures, datasets, and written materials for manuscripts, grant applications, reports, and scientific presentations.
• Provide guidance, training, and technical direction to Research Scientist/Engineers, postdoctoral scholars, students, and other research personnel engaged in laboratory and research activities.
• Mentor junior laboratory members in experimental design, technical skills, data analysis, and scientific problem-solving.

Benefits

• Outstanding benefits
• Opportunities for professional growth
• Chance to work in an environment known for its diversity, intellectual excitement, artistic pursuits and natural beauty

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level