Research Assistant

Job Description:

The education and experience will determine the grade at which this position is filled.

The Research Assistant is responsible for research support of the Principal Investigator’s (PI) studies along with duties involving molecular biology, biochemistry, protein production, purification, and protein crystallization. Duties include performing molecular biology and biochemistry for protein production, purification, and for biochemical assays, as well as some protein crystallization, assisting the other lab members with experimental design and direction. The incumbent is also responsible for maintaining lab materials including plasmid DNA, strain stocks and custom primer data, inventory lists, and freezer/fridge contents, ordering and receiving, equipment upkeep and repair, ensuring compliance with all Brown policies, and working with collaborators to achieve specific research goals.

The candidate will work in the laboratory of Dr. Alexandra Deaconescu, which includes access to a state-of-the-art structural biology facility at Brown and is equipped with liquid handling robots, instrumentation suitable for X- ray diffraction, as well as other facilities for macromolecular biophysical characterization. Examples of work from the lab (www.deaconesculab.com) are: Brugger et al, Nature Communications (2020), Dorich et al, Genes & Development (2019), Vemu et al. Science (2018), Le TT et al. Cell (2018), Deaconescu et al. Photochemistry and Photobiology (2017), Kutter et al. JMB (2016), Szyk et al, Cell (2014), Deaconescu et al., PNAS (2012), Szyk et al., NSMB (2012) and Deaconescu et al., TIBS (2013) and Deaconescu et al., Cell (2006).]

This is a fixed term position with a current end date of 12/01/2023 which may be extended based upon available funding.

Job Qualifications

Education and Experience

• Required: Bachelor’s degree in Biological sciences or related discipline (grade 7). Bachelor’s degree with 1 – 2 years relevant laboratory experience (grade 8).

• Or, equivalent combination of education and experience.

• Experience with PCR, primer design and cloning is preferred.

• Experience with protein purification is preferred.

Job Competencies

• Teamwork: Must be willing and able to provide technical support to laboratory personnel.

• Organizational: Must see to maintenance and organization of laboratory research activities.

• Ability to perform complex experiments and techniques with high levels of reliability and accuracy within time constraints.

• Interpersonal: Must interact well with other laboratory personnel, with members of the University community, and with outside vendors.

• Must be able to multitask between tasks and projects and complete tasks in a timely manner.

• The person in this position frequently communicates to faculty and staff who inquire about their research. Must be able to exchange accurate information.

• This is a 37.5 hour per week position.  Must be willing to work an adjusted schedule to support research needs.

• Possesses a willingness and ability to support a diverse and inclusive campus community.

Background and education check required.

Recruiting Start Date:

2022-05-12-07:00

Job Posting Title:

Research Assistant

Department:

Department of Molecular Biology, Cell Biology and Biochemistry

Grade:

Grade 7

Worker Type:

Employee

Worker Sub-Type:

Fixed Term (Fixed Term)

Time Type:

Full time

Scheduled Weekly Hours:

37.5

Position Classification:

Onsite

Submission Guidelines:

Please note that in order to be considered an applicant for any staff position at Brown University you must submit an application form for each position for which you believe you are qualified. Applications are not kept on file for future positions. Please include a cover letter and resume with each position application.

Vaccination Requirements:

In order to maintain 90% or greater universal vaccination rates on campus, all newly hired employees at Brown University must receive the final dose of the COVID-19 vaccine before they begin work, unless they are approved for a medical or religious exemption. All employees must also receive a COVID-19 booster within thirty (30) days of becoming eligible. For more information, please visit the Healthy Brown site.

Still Have Questions?

If you have any questions you may contact [email protected] .

EEO Statement:

Brown University is an E-Verify Employer.

As an EEO/AA employer, Brown University provides equal opportunity and prohibits discrimination, harassment and retaliation based upon a person’s race, color, religion, sex, age, national or ethnic origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or any other characteristic protected under applicable law, in the administration of its policies, programs, and activities.