Research Specialist

Arizona State University•Tempe, AZ

3d•Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Research Specialist to join our dynamic scientific team in the Biodesign Center for Applied Structural Discovery at Arizona State University, in Dr. Petra Fromme's laboratory. The ideal candidate will be responsible for conducting complex experiments, operating and maintaining advanced laboratory equipment, including bioreactors and supporting research projects. This role requires a strong technical background, excellent problem-solving skills, and the ability to train and mentor students.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree and three (3) years of experience appropriate to the area of assignment/field; OR, Any equivalent combination of experience and/or training from which comparable knowledge, skills and abilities have been achieved.
Strong mechanical aptitude for equipment maintenance and troubleshooting.
Demonstrated excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree in Biochemistry, Biophysics, Molecular Biology, Bioengineering, or a related field.
Previous hands-on experience with bioreactor operation, protein biochemistry, and chromatographic techniques.
Previous experience working with Cyanobacteria Cell Culture.

Responsibilities

Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot large-scale photobioreactor systems for Cyanobacteria cultivation, including programming growth parameters, monitoring cell health via spectroscopy, and performing harvests via tangential flow filtration and centrifugation.
Prepare and purify proteins for structural and functional studies.
Perform protein characterization using techniques such as SDS-PAGE.
Execute ion exchange chromatography.
Prepare and image protein crystallization experiments.
Grow nanocrystals for advanced imaging techniques, including X-Ray crystallography.
Harvest, freeze, and prepare crystals for synchrotron and X-ray free-electron laser (XFEL) experiments.
Coordinate and conduct experiments at national and international beamtime facilities, including managing logistics, shipping, and travel justifications.
Perform routine maintenance, calibration, and repair of laboratory equipment (e.g., spectrophotometers, water filtration systems).
Ensure compliance with Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) standards, particularly in hazardous waste handling.
Communicate with vendor representatives to procure supplies and negotiate discounts.
Prepare and deliver clear and concise presentations on research progress and troubleshooting at weekly team meetings.
Contribute to the scientific community through seminar series presentations.