Life Science Research Professional 1

Note - This is a 6 month fixed- term position.

Department of Bioengineering
Stanford Bioengineering is a dynamic and rapidly growing department within the Stanford’s School of Engineering and School of Medicine . For more than a decade, we have sought to advance bioengineering as a fundamental engineering discipline grounded in basic sciences and powered by a unique set of engineering concepts and principles, capable of realizing many diverse applications. Our community ranges broadly and includes some of the world's most successful leaders in bioengineering technology and business. Our staff are critical to supporting our organization’s goals and enabling our ongoing mission to conduct cutting-edge research, educate the next generation of leaders and scientists, and continue to formulate innovative solutions to global challenges. 

Science and engineering are about learning and building respectively. They are about taking things apart to understand them well enough to build things out of them. When science and engineering are combined, it becomes possible to innovate and have an impact on society. The lab of Matthias Garten is seeking a Life Science Research Professional who is ready to explore the biophysical mechanisms that allow the malaria parasite to thrive. The insights help to treat malaria, but also show us how to utilize red blood cells one day as a platform for potential biomedical applications.

In the Garten lab, we study how the malaria parasite can take over and control red blood cells. While this requires the parasite to extensively communicate with its host cell, it doesn’t reveal the parasite to the immune system. We use state of the art light and electron microscopy to uncover structures that allow nutrient and protein transport from and to the parasite, while using ion currents as functional readout for channel activity.

We are looking for a group member with experience on custom built laser microscope and quantitative data analysis. You will learn about parasite cell biology, the biophysics of nutrient and protein transport, microscopy, and how to support the basic lab functions with the PI and a growing team of students and postdoctoral researchers. You will use these acquired skills to help support our research through experimentation and assistance with lab maintenance. You will be involved in projects with the chance of having your work published and recognized by the scientific community. If you think our work matches your interest and motivation, come join the team!

In this role, you will:

• Acquiring data on a custom build lattice light sheet microscope
• Independently conduct experiments; maintain detailed records of experiments and outcomes.
• Apply the theories and methods of a life science discipline to interpret and perform analyses of experiment results; offer suggestions regarding modifications to procedures and protocols in collaboration with senior researcher.
• Help with general lab maintenance as needed; maintain cell culture, maintain lab stock, manage chemical inventory and safety records, and provide general lab support as needed.
• Assist with orientation and training of new staff or students on lab procedures or techniques.
• *Other duties as assigned.

Education & Experience (Required): 

Bachelor's degree in related scientific field.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities  (Required):

• General understanding of scientific principles. Demonstrated performance to use knowledge and skills when needed.
• Demonstrated ability to apply theoretical knowledge of science principals to problem solve work.
• Ability to maintain detailed records of experiments and outcomes.
• General computer skills and ability to quickly learn and master computer programs, databases, and scientific applications.
• Ability to work under deadlines with general guidance.
• Excellent organizational skills and demonstrated ability to accurately complete detailed work.

Education & Experience (Desired):

• Background in microscopy and experienced in the work with lasers
• At least one direct experience in a wet lab environment.
• Research experience with parasites/apicomplexans.
• Ability to quantitate observations.

Physical Requirements:

• Frequently stand, walk, twist, bend, stoop, squat, grasp lightly, use fine manipulation, grasp forcefully, perform desk-based computer tasks, use telephone, write by hand, lift, carry, push and pull objects weighing over 40 pounds.
• Occasionally sit, kneel, crawl, reach and work above shoulders, sort and file paperwork or parts.
• Rarely climb, scrub, sweep, mop, chop and mix or operate hand and foot controls.
• Must have correctable vision to perform duties of the job.
• Ability to bend, squat, kneel, stand, reach above shoulder level, and move on hard surfaces for up to eight hours.
• Ability to lift heavy objects weighing up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to work in a dusty, dirty, and odorous environment.
• Position may require repetitive motion.

Working Conditions:

• May require working in close proximity to blood borne pathogens.
• Requires work with lasers.
• Requires work in an environment where animals are used for teaching and research.
• Position may at times require the employee to work with or be in areas where hazardous materials and/or infectious diseases are present.
• Employee must perform tasks that require the use of personal protective equipment, such as safety glasses and shoes, protective clothing and gloves, and possibly a respirator.
• May require extended or unusual work hours based on research requirements and business needs.

Work Standards:

• Promote Culture of Belonging, Equity and Inclusion: Demonstrates a commitment to treat all coworkers with respect, that everyone is different and brings a unique perspective that they can learn from.
• Interpersonal Skills: Demonstrates the ability to work well with Stanford colleagues and clients and with external organizations.
• Promote Culture of Safety: Demonstrates commitment to personal responsibility and value for safety; communicates safety concerns; uses and promotes safe behaviors based on training and lessons learned.
• Subject to and expected to comply with all applicable University policies and procedures, including but not limited to the personnel policies and other policies found in the University's Administrative Guide, http://adminguide.stanford.edu .

Pay Range:
The expected pay range for this position is $26.44 to $36.54 per hour.

Stanford University provides pay ranges representing its good faith estimate of what the university reasonably expects to pay for a position. The pay offered to a selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the qualifications of the selected candidate, departmental budget availability, internal equity, geographic location and external market pay for comparable jobs.

At Stanford University, base pay represents only one aspect of the comprehensive rewards package. The Cardinal at Work website (https://cardinalatwork.stanford.edu/benefits-rewards ) provides detailed information on Stanford’s extensive range of benefits and rewards offered to employees. Specifics about the rewards package for this position may be discussed during the hiring process.

How to Apply:
We invite you to apply for this position by clicking on the “Apply for Job” button. To be considered, please submit a cover letter and résumé along with your online application. The cover letter should briefly describe why you believe you are a good fit for this position.

Why Stanford is for You: 

Imagine a world without search engines or social platforms. Consider lives saved through first-ever organ transplants and research to cure illnesses. Stanford University has revolutionized the way we live and enrich the world. Supporting this mission is our diverse and dedicated 17,000 staff. We seek talent driven to impact the future of our legacy. Our culture and unique perks empower you with:

• Freedom to grow. We offer career development programs, tuition reimbursement, or audit a course. Join a TedTalk, film screening, or listen to a renowned author or global leader speak.
• A caring culture. We provide superb retirement plans, generous time-off, and family care resources.
• A healthier you. Climb our rock wall, or choose from hundreds of health or fitness classes at our world-class exercise facilities. We also provide excellent health care benefits.
• Discovery and fun. Stroll through historic sculptures, trails, and museums.
• Enviable resources. Enjoy free commuter programs, ridesharing incentives, discounts and more!

The job duties listed are typical examples of work performed by positions in this job classification and are not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, tasks, and responsibilities. Specific duties and responsibilities may vary depending on department or program needs without changing the general nature and scope of the job or level of responsibility. Employees may also perform other duties as assigned.

Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process should contact Stanford University Human Resources at [email protected] . For all other inquiries, please submit a contact form .

Stanford is an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.