Research Technician, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics

Vanderbilt University•Nashville, TN

8h•Onsite

About The Position

The research technician will work in Dr. Nancy Carrasco's laboratory in the Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics (MPB) at Vanderbilt University School of Medicine. The research technician will be responsible for experiments conducted in the laboratory, including: mouse husbandry, tissue culture, recombinant DNA studies, site-directed mutagenesis, microscopy (both light and electron), electrophysiology, transport assays, protein purification, western blots, and cryoelectron microscopy (CryoEM). This position will require scientific excellence, well-honed experimental skills, accuracy, the ability to conduct research according to a predetermined schedule, and the ability to report experimental outcomes to the supervisor (i.e., the lab head) effectively. In addition, this position requires skill at record-keeping and basic computer skills such as the ability to use Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. The successful candidate must commit to remaining in the position for a minimum of two years. Therefore, the position is suitable for an entry-level scientist aiming to gain substantial experience in experimental research in preparation for applying to graduate programs. The laboratory has an excellent track record of producing scientists who have been admitted to PhD, medical, and MSTP programs at top universities. The Carrasco laboratory focuses on pushing forward our understanding of the action of thyroid hormones—from their biosynthesis in the thyroid gland to their pleiotropic effects on many different tissues. We express and purify wild-type sodium/iodide symporter (NIS) protein and mutant NIS proteins engineered by site-directed mutagenesis; ascertain the effects of the relevant mutations on NIS function; and determine the atomic structures of the mutant proteins using cryoelectron microscopy (cryo-EM). We also use NIS knockout mice to investigate the metabolic effects of varying degrees of hypothyroidism, and we are currently investigating novel approaches to employing not only wild-type NIS but also NIS mutant proteins in gene-transfer studies to image and treat several cancers. We value excellence, commitment, motivation, hard work, creativity, curiosity, and passion for science. Our overall experimental approach runs the gamut from engineering NIS cDNA constructs, expressing proteins in mammalian cells, membrane protein purification biochemistry, high-resolution structure determination using cryo-EM, image processing, light microscopy, and electrophysiology to investigating the molecular mechanisms of wild-type and mutant NIS proteins. The results of our research deepen our understanding of sodium-driven active transport and molecular endocrinology more generally, which may ultimately lead to translational approaches to treating thyroid disease and several cancers.

Requirements

Excellent communication skills and good teamwork skills are required.
General computer skills are required.

Nice To Haves

A bachelor’s degree in a related field and laboratory experience is preferred.
Experience with the general laboratory techniques listed in the research description is strongly preferred.
Experience with animal handling and/or husbandry is preferred.

Responsibilities

Conducting research to their, and our, highest standards, as well as to the highest possible standards of responsible conduct of research.
Following laboratory protocols, conducting experiments, and reporting results to the principal investigator (PI: Dr. Nancy Carrasco). The research assistant will report directly to the PI, and must be fully engaged in the research projects assigned to them.
Reading relevant research literature and presenting research outcomes at our weekly lab meetings.
Attending MPB seminars and other relevant seminars.
Performing efficient data control and storage management by organizing notebooks, files, and file names in appropriate data storage folders associated with detailed data/file annotation.
Making use of their strong interpersonal and communication skills and their ability to work collaboratively with a wide range of constituencies in a diverse community.
Following laboratory safety guidelines and institutional safety protocols.
Making a substantial contribution to relevant research projects, so that they can be included as a co-author on the papers published by the group.
Assisting the PI with general laboratory maintenance and equipment repair, which will include communicating with vendors and manufacturers.
Assisting the PI in training new lab personnel according to protocols approved by the PI.