RESEARCH SCIENTIST 1 (PROTEOMICS SAMPLE PREP)

As a UW employee, you have a unique opportunity to change lives on our campuses, in our state and around the world. UW employees offer their boundless energy, creative problem solving skills and dedication to build stronger minds and a healthier world.

UW faculty and staff also enjoy outstanding benefits, professional growth opportunities and unique resources in an environment noted for diversity, intellectual excitement, artistic pursuits and natural beauty. 

The University of Washington (UW) is proud to be one of the nation’s premier educational and research institutions. Our people are the most important asset in our pursuit of achieving excellence in education, research, and community service. Our staff not only enjoys outstanding benefits and professional growth opportunities, but also an environment noted for diversity, community involvement, intellectual excitement, artistic pursuits, and natural beauty.

The Department of Genome Sciences (GS) is part of the University of Washington School of Medicine (UW SoM) and is comprised of 31 labs addressing leading edge questions in biology and medicine by developing and applying genetic, genomic and computational approaches taking advantage of genomic information now available for a host of species. GS is making major contributions in the application of genome science to understand the fundamentals of biology and to improve human health and wellbeing. Genome Sciences is a collaborative department supported by very different academic disciplines. We work with a multitude of Program Investigators (PIs) in departments both on the UW campus as well as worldwide. The department has gone through significant expansion since its beginning in 2001 with annual grant awards of $68.5M in FY21.

The Department of Genome Sciences is committed to creating an environment that is welcoming and inclusive. Our goal is to foster a place of learning and working where all members can thrive and where diversity is recognized and celebrated. At Genome Sciences, we aim to create supportive spaces for those who are marginalized in higher education or society. To achieve this, we recognize that it is our ongoing responsibility to understand, acknowledge, and challenge systems of privilege and disadvantage in higher education such as those based on race, color, creed, caste, religion, national origin, citizenship, sex, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, veteran status, or socioeconomic status.

Position Purpose
The Research Scientist will conduct laboratory research focusing on the discovery of novel peptide adducts associated with exposure to low-dose ionizing radiation using high-throughput quantitative mass spectrometry. This position will require expertise in biochemical sample preparation and meticulous pipetting skills and the ability to perform research and take responsibility for assuring quality, cost effectiveness, and timeliness for large projects. The Research Scientist will work under immediate supervision to meet project deadlines and complete assigned tasks by implementing well-established protocols and evaluating and developing new protocols. Weekly meetings are held to discuss project status.

Dimensions and Impact to the University
This position will work in a prominent mass spectrometry laboratory whose work impacts other researchers worldwide. The research conducted will be reflected in even greater funding opportunities and enhancement of the reputation of the University as a biomedical research powerhouse.

RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Processing and preparation of proteomics samples in a mass spectrometry lab (60%)
o Preparation of chemical solutions.
o Perform high-throughput proteomic sample preparation protocols using KingFisher robot
o Perform in-solution and in-gel proteomic sample lysis and digestions.
• Develop and apply proteomics analyses (20%)
o Use nano-flow liquid chromatography systems and mass spectrometers to analyze peptides.
o Perform routine assessment of mass spectrometry data quality using lab software.
o Analyze data using lab software (Linux and Windows)
o Troubleshoot instrumentation errors and malfunctions.
• Lab maintenance and research support (20%)
o Work with sample manager tracking system to log metadata, sample receipt, and workflow data.
o Develop and maintain precise laboratory protocols and records.
o Present data to collaborators and scientific community.
o Assist and collaborate with other members of the lab on related projects.
o Perform other tasks as needed.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:
Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Biochemistry, Chemistry, or other related Life Sciences field and 3 months research or laboratory experience.
• Working knowledge of molecular biology, biochemistry, and/or chemistry.
• Excellent technical skills at the bench.
• Excellent recording keeping.
• Well-developed analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Demonstrated commitment to valuing diversity and contributing to an inclusive working and learning environment.
• Must be highly organized with a strong attention to detail.
• Open to receiving direction and to asking for assistance when needed.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively.

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

Desired Qualifications
• Experience with automated sample transfer and purification systems, specifically, Thermo KingFisher instruments.
• Laboratory experience especially in a mass spectrometry laboratory, whether in a professional or academic setting.
• Working knowledge of proteomic sample preparation methods.

Applicants who are eager to learn that don’t possess all of above are still encouraged to apply!  This position presents a great opportunity for professional growth.

Working Conditions
• Occasionally lifts and/or carries objects weighing up to 30 pounds.
• Occasionally stoops and bends.
• Occasionally reaches and grasps with arms and hands.

As a UW employee, you will enjoy generous benefits and work/life programs.  For detailed information on Benefits for this position, click here.

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 Workforce 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.