Senior Research Technician - Molecular Microbiology

Washington University in St. Louis

1d • $19 - $32 • Onsite

About The Position

The Kanjee lab studies how malaria parasites infect human red blood cells (RBCs). We are interested in identifying host receptors required by the parasite during RBC invasion, with a specific focus on the understudied parasite Plasmodium vivax. We use red blood cell genetics approaches (CRISPR/Cas9 knockout/knockdown & gene complementation) to understand the functional mechanisms of candidate host receptors during parasite invasion. This position in the Kanjee lab will assist with experiments involving general molecular cloning, designing CRISPR/Cas9 knockout, knockdown and host receptor gene complementation constructs, in vitro culturing of primary and immortalized erythroid cells, culturing of malaria parasites, validation of host RBC genetic knockouts/knockdowns/complementation via flow cytometry and Western blot. These experiments will involve: collection of data, preparation of cultures, media and set-up and maintenance of equipment. Performs independently complex research studies, experiments and assays.

Requirements

• Master’s degree or combination of education and/or experience may substitute for minimum education.
• Laboratory Setting (1 Year)

Nice To Haves

• Prior experience with in vitro cell culture in BSL2 work environment is an asset.
• Prior experience with mammalian genetics approaches and molecular cloning is an asset.
• Prior experience with parasite culture is an asset.
• Working knowledge of spreadsheets and statistical analyses.
• Excellent record keeping, organizational skills, and ability to interact with others.

Responsibilities

• Performs complex analysis/projects according to research protocols, explaining methods and procedures to other technicians.
• Enters data and maintains current data files on research projects.
• Monitors data to ensure consistent quality.
• Prepares tissue cultures, reagents, probe tests, etc
• May perform preliminary statistical analysis of data.
• Assures compliance with established safety procedures and maintains required documentation on laboratory and specimen conditions.
• Ensures lab conditions and equipment are properly cleaned and maintained in accordance with established procedures.
• Assists in the training and development of technicians, acting as a group leader.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Up to 22 days of vacation, 10 recognized holidays, and sick time.
• Competitive health insurance packages with priority appointments and lower copays/coinsurance.
• Free Metro transit U-Pass for eligible employees.
• Defined contribution (403(b)) Retirement Savings Plan, which combines employee contributions and university contributions starting at 7%.
• Wellness challenges, annual health screenings, mental health resources, mindfulness programs and courses, employee assistance program (EAP), financial resources, access to dietitians, and more!
• 4 weeks of caregiver leave to bond with your new child.
• Family care resources are also available for your continued childcare needs.
• Adult care resources.
• Tuition for you and your family, including dependent undergraduate-level college tuition up to 100% at WashU and 40% elsewhere after seven years with us.

What This Job Offers

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