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The Institute for Protein Design (IPD) at the University of Washington in Seattle is creating a new world of synthetic proteins to address 21st-century challenges in medicine, energy, and technology. The IPD is a unique interdisciplinary environment where world-class researchers with expertise in computing and software, biochemistry, genome sciences, biological structure, pharmacology, immunology and other basic science disciplines, as well as clinical medicine, work together to both computationally design and experimentally characterize novel biomolecules. Current projects include the design of novel therapeutics for cancer, neurological diseases, and more, as well as new vaccines, nanomaterials, and enzymes. For more detailed information about the Institute for Protein Design please see www.ipd.uw.edu .

The Department of Biochemistry - IPD has an outstanding opportunity for a Research Scientist/Engineer 2.

The primary responsibilities of the RES2-MLS are:

Construction of gene libraries from chip synthesized oligonucleotides and screening of computationally designed minibinders with functional features using fluorescence activated cell sorting (FACS), next-generation DNA sequencing, followed by clonal protein production and biophysical testing of function.

Regularly review, analyze, and troubleshoot all experimental results for all minibinder molecular library production from chip synthesized oligonucleotides including: fragment amplification, plasmid verification, sequencing data quality assessment, yeast strain verification, and flow cytometry.

Design, test, and implement protocols and techniques into existing minibinder molecular library construction and screening workflows to improve standardization and efficiency.
Collaborate with other research staff, postdoctoral fellows and graduate students on computational minibinder protein screening, production and characterization.
Evaluate current and proposed protocols for accuracy, reagent conservation, and validity of resulting data.

Works effectively as a member of a team under technical guidance of seasoned staff; establishes productive relationships with co-workers, customers and others to accomplish team objectives; may guide the work of co-workers, students, research aides/assistants, technicians or other support staff as necessary to achieve specific assignments.

Leads small projects and/or major project tasks which may last years, and effectively manages them by providing guidance and direction to project staff; makes substantial contributions to determining feasibility of goals/objectives; interfaces with investigator peers.

Performs assignments designed to develop professional work knowledge providing foundation for innovative thinking and techniques

Works under immediate supervision to complete assigned tasks/projects.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

In this role, the RES2 – MLS will spend ~60% of the effort dedicated to the molecular library construction screening activities.

A ~20% of effort will be dedicated to maintenance of instruments needed for molecular screening.

The remaining ~20% of effort will be dedicated  to protein production and biophysical characterization of single proteins.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

Bachelor's Degree in Biochemistry, Biology or related field + 2 years or more of experience in related field.

Equivalent education/experience will substitute for all minimum qualifications except when there are legal requirements, such as a license/certification/registration.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

The Research Scientist 2 - MLS is devoted primarily to scientific research and requires a B. Sc. in a Biochemistry, biology-related field.

Experience with molecular library construction, FACS machines and next-generation DNA sequencing desired. Candidates must be capable of selecting and applying standardized scientific procedures and techniques to assignments of moderate complexity, involving potentially conflicting design requirements.

DESIRED:
•Technical proficiency, scientific creativity, collaborative ability as well as independent thought.
•Recognized as a resource for others to use in dealing with molecular library screening. Anticipates future needs in novel protocol development.
•Ability to develop innovative processes to achieve goals. Reviews work activities to determine where new information could improve processes or move projects forward.
•Ability to select and apply standardized scientific procedures and techniques to assignments of moderate complexity, involving potentially conflicting assay requirements.

Application Process:

The application process for UW positions may include completion of a variety of online assessments to obtain additional information that will be used in the evaluation process.  These assessments may include Work Authorization, Cover Letter and/or others.  Any assessments that you need to complete will appear on your screen as soon as you select “Apply to this position”. Once you begin an assessment, it must be completed at that time; if you do not complete the assessment you will be prompted to do so the next time you access your “My Jobs” page. If you select to take it later, it will appear on your "My Jobs" page to take when you are ready. Please note that your application will not be reviewed, and you will not be considered for this position until all required assessments have been completed.