Laboratory Specialist
Job Description
Contribute to the scientific mission of the Department of Chemistry by conducting biochemical and molecular biology research on the effect of protein structure on cell division. The Laboratory Specialist will work under the direct supervision of a Chemistry Department faculty member, with training provided by an experienced graduate student as needed. Research activities will include growing Biosafety Level 1 (BSL-1) E. coli cultures, isolating, purifying, and analyzing DNA, overproducing, purifying and analyzing RNA and proteins, and performing in vitro transcription-translation to produce proteins modified with unnatural amino acids. Once trained, the Laboratory Technician will be expected to work independently and to maintain detailed and accurate records. They may assist with training other personnel and will participate in routine laboratory maintenance.
Position Duties and Responsibilities involve contributing to the research program of a Chemistry Department faculty member and include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Generation and routine maintenance of genetically modified DNA and protein bacterial cultures
- Planning molecular biology and biochemical experiments in consultation with the supervisor
- Independently executing experiments related to the production and characterization of modified cell cycle proteins
- Analyzing data and presenting experimental results in lab group meetings
- Keeping proper records of laboratory activities
- Maintaining generally clean, sterile, and safe work conditions.
- Obtaining Biosafety Training.
- Maintaining sterile lab conditions.
- Properly disposing of hazardous biological and chemical waste.
Required Qualifications
• Competence in basic laboratory skills and safety practices
• Experience with sterile DNA manipulations, microbiological and/or cell culture techniques
• Working knowledge of computers and competence with basic computer software including Microsoft Word, Excel, and Powerpoint
• Effective verbal and written English communication skills
• Demonstrated ability to maintain thorough and organized scientific records
• Demonstrated ability to work productively in a collaborative environment
Preferred Qualifications
• B.S. degree in Biochemistry, Biology, or related field, or equivalent experience
• Experience working at Biological Safety Level 1 containment
• Experience with recombinant DNA and/or RNA techniques, or in vitro transcription-translation
• Experience with protein purification and characterization such as fast-protein liquid chromatography (FPLC), gels, circular dichroism, mass spectrometry
Pay Band
3
Review Date
March 13, 2020
Additional Information
The successful Candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check
About Virginia Tech
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