AMVETS Jobs

Research Assistant (Life Science Research Professional 1)

Stanford, California, United States

Research

Post Date May 14, 2024

Requisition # 103242

ThePleiner labat Stanford Medicine, Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, is seeking a Research Assistant (Life Sciences Research Professional 1) to assist a fundamental research program in cellular and molecular biology. Join our growing team!

Our lab aims to understand how human cells produce and quality control biomedically important membrane proteins like transporters, receptors and ion channels that are essential many cellular functions. Misfolding and premature degradation of these membrane proteins is leads to severe diseases like cystic fibrosis or various channelopathies. In addition, many viruses exploit the cell’s biogenesis and quality control machinery to for their own replication. We aim to characterize the molecular machines and pathways that mature human membrane proteins to better understand how to treat these disease and fend off deadly viral infections.

Towards that goal, the lab also develops novel technology to study and modulate protein quality control pathways for therapeutic benefit. The lab combines cell biology, (structural) biochemistry and protein engineering approaches to tackle challenging human health problems like protein misfolding diseases that cause neurodegeneration. One particular type of tool we exploit for these purposes are small, single-domain antibodies (called nanobodies) from alpacas. These tiny antibodies can be produced in human cells to manipulate intracellular biology e.g. to inhibit or activate protein folding and degradation processes. We use alpaca immunization, synthetic nanobody libraries and computational binder prediction tools to generate function-modulating nanobodies targeting key protein folding and degradation factors of biomedical importance.

In this role you will work alongside senior lab members to assist, as well as independently execute and troubleshoot experiments. You will have the opportunity to train new lab members, help in organizing the lab space and contribute directly to our ongoing research projects and publications.

Our lab is an inclusive space that fosters learning & curiosity, promotes team work and values mentorship to drive an innovative research program that pushes the boundaries of molecular biology. The ideal candidate will join the lab in June or July.

For more visit our lab website:www.pleinerlab.org

Duties include:

• Plan approach to experiments in support of research projects in lab and/or field based on knowledge of scientific theory.

• Independently conduct experiments; maintain detailed records of experiments and outcomes.

• Apply the theories and methods of a life science discipline to interpret and perform analyses of experiment results; offer suggestions regarding modifications to procedures and protocols in collaboration with senior researcher.

• Review literature on an ongoing basis to remain current with new procedures and apply learnings to related research.

• Contribute to publication of findings as needed. Participate in the preparation of written documents, including procedures, presentations, and proposals.

• Help with general lab maintenance as needed; maintain lab stock, manage chemical inventory and safety records, and provide general lab support as needed.

• Assist with orientation and training of new staff or students on lab procedures or techniques.

*- Other duties may also be assigned

The job duties listed are typical examples of work performed by positions in this job classification and are not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, tasks, and responsibilities. Specific duties and responsibilities may vary depending on department or program needs without changing the general nature and scope of the job or level of responsibility. Employees may also perform other duties as assigned.

The expected pay range for this position is $26.44 to $36.54 per hour.

Stanford University provides pay ranges representing its good faith estimate of what the university reasonably expects to pay for a position. The pay offered to a selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the qualifications of the selected candidate, departmental budget availability, internal equity, geographic location and external market pay for comparable jobs.

At Stanford University, base pay represents only one aspect of the comprehensive rewards package. The Cardinal at Work website (https://cardinalatwork.stanford.edu/benefits-rewards) provides detailed information on Stanford’s extensive range of benefits and rewards offered to employees. Specifics about the rewards package for this position may be discussed during the hiring process.

Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process should contact Stanford University Human Resources atstanfordelr@stanford.edu. For all other inquiries, please submit acontact form.

Stanford is an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in molecular biology, cell biology, biochemistry, biophysics, or related field.

• Experience with standard wet lab molecular biology techniques (cloning, PCR, mutagenesis) and biochemical techniques

(protein purification, gel electrophoresis, Western blot).

• Experience with mammalian cell culture techniques.

• Strong analytical and quantitative skills and attention to detail.

• Highly motivated, dedicated and independent.

• Supportive team player.

• Highly organized.

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.

• Willingness to learn.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE (REQUIRED):

Bachelor's degree in related scientific field.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (REQUIRED):

• General understanding of scientific principles. Demonstrated performance to use knowledge and skills when needed.

• Demonstrated ability to apply theoretical knowledge of science principals to problem solve work.

• Ability to maintain detailed records of experiments and outcomes.

• General computer skills and ability to quickly learn and master computer programs, databases, and scientific applications.

• Ability to work under deadlines with general guidance.

• Excellent organizational skills and demonstrated ability to accurately complete detailed work.

CERTIFICATIONS & LICENSES:

None

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS*:

• Frequently stand, walk, twist, bend, stoop, squat, grasp lightly, use fine manipulation, grasp forcefully, perform desk-based computer tasks, use telephone, write by hand, lift, carry, push and pull objects weighing over 40 pounds.

• Occasionally sit, kneel, crawl, reach and work above shoulders, sort and file paperwork or parts.

• Rarely climb, scrub, sweep, mop, chop and mix or operate hand and foot controls.

• Must have correctible vision to perform duties of the job.

• Ability to bend, squat, kneel, stand, reach above shoulder level, and move on hard surfaces for up to eight hours.

• Ability to lift heavy objects weighing up to 50 pounds.

• Ability to work in a dusty, dirty, and odorous environment.

• Position may require repetitive motion.

*- Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodation to any employee with a disability who requires accommodation to perform the essential functions of his or her job.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• May require working in close proximity to blood borne pathogens.

• May require work in an environment where animals are used for teaching and research.

• Position may at times require the employee to work with or be in areas where hazardous materials and/or infectious diseases are present.

• Employee must perform tasks that require the use of personal protective equipment, such as safety glasses and shoes, protective clothing and gloves, and possibly a respirator.

• May require extended or unusual work hours based on research requirements and business needs.

Additional Information

• Schedule: Full-time

• Job Code: 4943

• Employee Status: Regular

• Grade: E

• Requisition ID: 103242

• Work Arrangement : On Site