Research Assistant I, Biochemistry (Term)
The Term Research Assistant will support laboratory research in executing a small molecule inhibitor screen for an immunologically relevant signaling pathway. This term project requires a solid theoretical and practical knowledge in eukaryotic cell culturing, cell biology, biochemistry, molecular biology, and basic immunology assays. There will be opportunities for publication(s) as well as in-depth laboratory experience to further solidify background in preparation for advanced degree programs.
The laboratory is broadly interested in two areas of cellular stress in innate immunity:
- The cytosolic DNA-sensing pathway involving the sensor cGAS, its second messenger product cGAMP, and the endoplasmic reticulum-bound receptor STING.
- The roles and coordination of RNA-binding proteins in regulating gene expression during innate immune responses.
Our lab integrates novel biochemical, molecular, virological, and cell biological tools with high-throughput transcriptomic and proteomic technologies in an effort to elucidate the gene regulatory networks at play during cellular stress – and how such mechanisms might be manipulated for therapeutic intervention. The lab is affiliated with the Department of Biochemistry at the Vanderbilt University School of Medicine and is also part of the Immunology and Microbial Pathogenesis Programs within the Department of Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology at VUMC.
Duties and Responsibilities
- Assists in Research and Development:
- Use aseptic technique for establishing and maintaining mammalian cell lines, and performing basic cell culture experiments
- Perform reporter-based assays in medium to high-throughput-base multi-well platforms (luciferase- and cytotoxicity-based assays).
- Proficient with electrophoretic approaches (agarose and polyacrylamide gels) to analyze DNA/RNA/protein samples (EtBr, Western Blotting, etc.)
- Design, mutate, and sub-clone DNA inserts into various plasmid backbones
- Work with expression and purification of recombinant proteins (bacteria and insect cells)
- After being trained, independently perform assays, accurately report results, and intellectually contribute to the troubleshooting and progress of the project
- Use analysis and desktop publishing software such as GraphPad Prism, Adobe Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, etc.), and Microsoft Excel
Lab and administrative duties:
- Prepare buffers and reagents
- Contribute to and maintain a proper and safe working environment
- Receive and organize packages supplies; contribute to the general order of laboratory
- Other tasks as directed by supervisor
Preferred expectations:
- Familiar with programs such as GraphPad prism, Adobe CC, and Excel
- Produce viable results in a timely fashion
- Grow and thrive in a fast-paced, highly competitive laboratory
Qualifications
- A Bachelor’s degree in biochemistry or related field from an accredited institution of higher education is necessary.
- At least 2 years of wet laboratory experience is necessary.
- Practical knowledge of basic techniques in biochemistry, molecular biology, immunology including: mammalian cell culture and maintenance and associated techniques, protein/RNA/DNA isolation and quantitation, reporter-based assays, gene expression (RT-qPCR) analysis, antibody-based assays (immunoblot, ELISA), and molecular biology/cloning is necessary.
- Ability to work independently, and possess strong skills in recording, analyzing, and presenting data is necessary.
Commitment to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion
At Vanderbilt University, we are intentional about and assume accountability for fostering advancement and respect for equity, diversity, and inclusion for all students, faculty, and staff. Our commitment to diversity makes us who we are. We have created a community that celebrates differences and lets individuality thrive. As part of this commitment, we actively value diversity in our workplace and learning environments as we seek to take advantage of the rich backgrounds and abilities of everyone. The diverse voices of Vanderbilt represent an invaluable resource for the University in its efforts to fulfill its mission and strive to be an example of excellence in higher education.
Vanderbilt University is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer. Women, minorities, people with disabilities, and protected veterans are encouraged to apply.