Research Scientist/Engineer 2

University of Washington Medical Center•Seattle, WA

3d•$69,600 - $73,200•Onsite

About The Position

The department of Microbiology has an outstanding opportunity for a part-time (80%, 32 hours per week) Research Scientist/Engineer 2 to join their team. Reporting to the Professor, this Research Scientist/Engineer 2 will support research in Sokurenko's laboratory which is focused on understanding molecular mechanisms of bacterial adhesion, adaptation of adhesins to different ecological and patho-physiological niches, their antigenic properties in lieu of creating targeted immune response. The Research Scientist/Engineer 2 (RSE 2) will partner with members of the Sokurenko Laboratory in the Department of Microbiology to support ongoing studies of bacterial adhesion and host-pathogen interactions. Working under the guidance of experienced investigators, the incumbent will carry out defined portions of research projects involving molecular biology, microbiology, biochemistry, and immunological techniques. The position is responsible for conducting laboratory experiments using established methods and protocols; collecting, organizing, analyzing, and documenting experimental data; identifying and communicating unexpected results or discrepancies; and contributing findings to research reports, presentations, publications, and grant-supported projects. The employee will work with increasing independence to complete assigned projects and will participate in improving laboratory workflows and research methods based on project experience. This position requires proficiency in basic microbiology, molecular biology, and biochemical techniques; strong organizational and recordkeeping skills; and competence with standard computer applications, including Microsoft Excel and Word. The employee is expected to exercise independent judgment in carrying out established procedures and troubleshooting routine experimental issues, while seeking guidance on unusual or complex problems. The salary information provided below is for a full-time position and will be prorated for this part-time, 75% FTE opportunity.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in a related field and two years of experience working in a biomedical research laboratory and tissue culture research or relevant experience.
Equivalent education and/or experience may substitute for minimum qualifications except when there are legal requirements, such as a license, certification, and/or registration.
Detailed knowledge of basic molecular biology applied to bacterial pathogens.
Proficiency in basic microbiology, molecular biology, and biochemical techniques.
Strong organizational and recordkeeping skills.
Competence with standard computer applications, including Microsoft Excel and Word.
Ability to exercise independent judgment in carrying out established procedures and troubleshooting routine experimental issues, while seeking guidance on unusual or complex problems.

Nice To Haves

Some relevant experience or exposure to secondary messenger signaling in pathogenic bacteria.
Some experience with studying host-pathogen interactions at the level of the innate immune response is desired.
Master’s Degree in Biology, Microbiology, or other pertinent science field.

Responsibilities

Conduct laboratory experiments and assays using established methods, protocols, and equipment.
Perform bacterial adhesion assays involving E. coli and related microbial systems.
Conduct molecular cloning, protein expression, purification, and characterization of adhesin molecules and whole pili.
Purify and evaluate mono- and polyclonal antibodies and assess their effects on bacterial adhesion.
Maintain and utilize tissue culture systems, including hybridoma cell cultures.
Collect, organize, process, analyze, and interpret experimental data; identify inconsistencies and communicate unexpected findings.
Maintain accurate and detailed laboratory records, protocols, and research documentation.
Contribute data, figures, summaries, and technical findings for publications, grant reports, presentations, and other research communications.
Participate in the development and refinement of laboratory procedures and workflows to improve efficiency, quality, and reproducibility.
Assist with planning and tracking assigned research activities, including timelines, materials, and laboratory resources.
Build and apply technical expertise to increasingly complex experimental procedures and research objectives.
Support ongoing federally funded research projects through reliable execution of project activities and documentation.
Provide day-to-day technical guidance and training to undergraduate students, volunteers, and other laboratory trainees.
Demonstrate laboratory techniques and ensure adherence to established protocols and safety requirements.
Assist in coordinating laboratory activities to support successful completion of research objectives.
Perform other duties as assigned in support of laboratory, departmental, and research program needs.