Lab Specialist, Microbiology

The Tak Lab in the Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Cancer Biology at the University of Virginia School of Medicine, is seeking a Laboratory Specialist to explore the molecular evolution of antiviral immune signaling systems in bacteria and humans. This position is ideal for candidates who are excited to discover novel molecular machinery and immune pathways that organisms use to defend against viral infection in an exciting new field at the interface of microbiology, immunology, and biochemistry. The chosen candidate will work closely with the PI to study novel bacterial immune systems and how they sense and neutralize infection by bacterial viruses (bacteriophages).

Research activities include, but are not limited to, bacterial growth assays, molecular cloning, PCR, nucleic acid isolation, bacteriophage infection assays, purification of recombinant proteins for biochemical and structural analysis. Additional duties include laboratory organization, purchasing, maintenance of molecular inventories, and biosafety. The position requires frequent use of scientific literature, appropriate experimental documentation, data analysis, clear data presentation, a collaborative attitude, and participation in group project meetings. Additional requirements include attention to detail in experimental work and record keeping, ability to handle multiple assignments, self-motivation and eagerness to acquire new skills. This position is ideal both for those seeking a long-term research scientist position, and for those seeking experience in preparation for doctoral-level research programs. The chosen candidate will have the opportunity to co-author manuscripts that will be peer-reviewed for publication in premier scientific journals. Preference will be given to candidates with a background in microbiology or biochemistry.

Responsibilities:

• Construction of plasmid expression vectors using PCR, Gibson assembly, plasmid miniprep purification, and sequencing.

• Bacterial transformation, growth assays, and bacteriophage infection assays.

• Growth and infection assays using 96-well plate microplate reader.

• Western blotting analysis of proteins from cell lysates.

• Molecular biology and protein biochemistry assays as projects evolve.

• Data documentation, and analysis using LabArchives, GraphPad Prism, Geneious Prime, Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, and other software as needed.

• Maintenance of laboratory stocks and solutions and laboratory organization.

Anticipated Hiring Range: $19.23 - $21.63/hour ($40,000 - $45,000 annually) commensurate with education and experience.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Education: Bachelor's degree (preferably in a STEM field); may accept combination of experience/education/certification in lieu of degree.

• Experience: 1 year of experience, 2 years preferred. 4 years of lab-related experience accepted in lieu of degree.

• Prior experience with molecular cloning or biochemistry is preferred.

Physical Demands:

The position includes benchwork (e.g., pipetting) and deskwork (e.g. computers) and physical exertion (e.g., caring for animals, moving supplies), some of which involves standing for extended periods, movement through confined spaces, and needs to accommodate movements of others, as well as extended periods in environments that may be above standard room temperature. Many procedures require fine motor skills and visual acuity (e.g., microinjection, molecular biology, in vitro fertilization).

Position Type & Work Location:

• This is a non-exempt-level, benefited position. Learn more about UVA benefits.

• This is a restricted position, which is dependent on funding and is contingent upon funding availability.

• This position will support visa sponsorship.

• This position is based in Charlottesville, VA, and must be performed fully on-site.

Additional Requirements

• Background checks and health screenings will be conducted on all new hires prior to employment.

How to Apply:

Please apply online, by searching for requisition number R0083420. Internal applicants may search and apply for jobs on the UVA Internal Careers website.Complete an application with the following documents:

• Resume or CV

• Cover Letter

Upload all materials into the resume submission field, multiple documents can be submitted into this one field. Alternatively, merge all documents into one PDF for submission. Applications that do not contain all the required documents will not receive full consideration.This position is open until filled.

References will be completed via UVA's standardized process SkillSurvey. A total of five references will be requested via SkillSurvey during the final phase of the interview process.A minimum of three are required.

For information regarding the position or the application process, please contact Jessica Speth, Academic Recruiter, js9rk@virginia.edu.

About UVA and the Community

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The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Learn more about UVA's commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment.