Research Assistant I - laboratories of Dr. Jamie Williamson and Dr. Danielle Grotjahn
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POSITION TITLE: Research Assistant I
POSITION SUMMARY:
The laboratories of Dr. Jamie Williamson and Dr. Danielle Grotjahn in the Department of Structural and Computational Biology at Scripps Research are looking for a Research Assistant to work on collaborative projects. Our research groups are focused on the structural characterization of ribosome biogenesis in vivo. We use a combination of biochemical and biophysical approaches, including cellular cryo-electron tomography, to study the structure and localization of ribosome assembly intermediates within bacteria cells.
We are looking for a motivated Research Assistant to work jointly between our two groups and support ongoing structural biology projects. In particular, we are looking for a Research Assistant to carry out the cellular cryo-electron tomography aspects of these projects. As a Research Assistant, you will be part of a highly collaborative team with access to state-of-the-art cryo-electron microscopy facilities and high performance computing resources.
KEY TASKS AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Perform all steps of the cellular tomography workflow for collaborative projects. This includes sample preparation (e.g. cell vitrification, cryo-focused ion beam milling), data collection (e.g. cryo-electron tomography tilt series imaging), and data processing (e.g. tomogram reconstruction and structure determination)
- Manage key aspects of the collaboration, including inventory of bacterial cell lines, reagents, equipment, etc.
- Generate and optimize new protocols for structure determination of ribosome assembly intermediates within intact bacterial cells
- Perform preliminary and pilot experiments for new collaborative research directions
- Generate data for publication, track experimental progress in electronic notebooks, and participate in manuscript preparation
- Provide technical support and assistance to members of both the Williamson and Grotjahn labs
- Train new researchers in all aspects of the cellular tomography workflow
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
This position works in a laboratory environment. Further details of the physical requirements of established essential functions for this position will be addressed/discussed during the interview process.
REQUIREMENTS:
- B.S., B.A. or equivalent with major in biology, biochemistry, molecular biology, cell biology, chemistry, biophysics, or related field of study
- 1-3 years of laboratory experience in a molecular biology, cell biology, biochemistry, or structural biology laboratory
- Experience in structural biology or cryo-electron microscopy strongly preferred, but not required.
COMPENSATION: $20.07-$25.06 per hour
EEO STATEMENT: Scripps is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.