RESEARCH TECHNICIAN II

This Position is Grant Funded

School of Medicine Established in 1930, Duke University School of Medicine is the youngest of the nation's top medical schools. Ranked sixth among medical schools in the nation, the School takes pride in being an inclusive community of outstanding learners, investigators, clinicians, and staff where interdisciplinary collaboration is embraced and great ideas accelerate translation of fundamental scientific discoveries to improve human health locally and around the globe. Composed of more than 2,500 faculty physicians and researchers, more than 1,300 students, and more than 6,000 staff, the Duke University School of Medicine along with the Duke University School of Nursing, Duke University Health System and the Private Diagnostic Clinic (PDC) comprise Duke Health. a world-class academic medical center. The Health System encompasses Duke University Hospital, Duke Regional Hospital, Duke Raleigh Hospital, Duke Primary Care, Duke Home and Hospice, Duke Health and Wellness, and multiple affiliations.

RESEARCH TECHNICIAN II

AZOITEI LAB – DUKE HUMAN VACCINE INSTITUTE

The Azoitei Lab at the Duke Human Vaccine Institute (DHVI), is currently recruiting for a Research Technician II to join our team. DHVI is an interdisciplinary, interdepartmental institute dedicated to the study of basic and translational science required to understand host-pathogen interactions that can be translated into vaccines against human diseases. We are a team of highly interactive investigators that have expertise in immunology, molecular biology, virology, microbiology, structural biology, computational biology, and vaccine science.

Research in the Azoitei lab is focused on two synergistic areas that are critical for the development of vaccines against highly infectious pathogens such as HIV, influenza, and SARS-CoV-2: 1) rational immunogen design for the induction of broadly neutralizing antibodies and 2) determining the biophysical properties of antigens that lead to B cell activation and development for antibody secretion. For immunogen design, we employ a rational, structure-based approach that utilizes state-of-the-art computational protein design algorithms and high-throughput library screening on the surface of yeast and mammalian cells. We are currently developing immunogens against HIV, influenza, and SARS-CoV-2. To study B cell signaling in response to antigens, we utilize molecular tools (fluorescent biosensors and optogenetic probes) to visualize and control the activity of key signaling molecules in live cell microscopy experiments. All our work involves collaborations with structural biologists, immunologists, and virologists. 

Responsibilities

• Perform DNA extraction and purification from bacterial cultures (mini/midi/maxi preps).
• Perform DNA amplification and gene assembly by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) followed by cloning (agarose gel electrophoresis, digestion, ligation, E. Coli transformation, and sequencing).
• Perform DNA library transformation into S. Cerivisiae, followed by culture and sample preparation for fluorescence activated cell sorting (FACS).
• Perform tissue culture to maintain, propagate and transfect mammalian cell lines.
• Perform recombinant protein expression and purification by immobilized metal affinity (IMAC) and size exclusion chromatography (SEC).
• Prepare buffers, plates, and media for bacterial and yeast cultures.
• Perform ordering responsibilities for the laboratory, including taking inventory, restocking, submitting orders, managing samples and coordinating with other lab members regarding their specific research needs.
• Perform other laboratory or data management duties, including laboratory maintenance tasks, as requested by the Principal Investigator.

Education, Skills, & Expe rience Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in bio chemistry, biology, or a related field.
• Previous laborato ry experience and familiarity with some of the techniques listed above are preferred.
• Must be a critical thinker, detail-oriented, and w ell organized.
• Must have strong communication skills and the abi lity to work in an interactive team environment.

Work generally requires a bachelor's degree in botany, biology, zoology, psychology or other directly related scientific field.

None required above education/training requirement. OR AN EQUIVALENT COMBINATION OF RELEVANT EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE

Duke is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer committed to providing employment opportunity without regard to an individual's age, color, disability, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, or veteran status.

Duke aspires to create a community built on collaboration, innovation, creativity, and belonging. Our collective success depends on the robust exchange of ideas—an exchange that is best when the rich diversity of our perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences flourishes. To achieve this exchange, it is essential that all members of the community feel secure and welcome, that the contributions of all individuals are respected, and that all voices are heard. All members of our community have a responsibility to uphold these values.

Essential Physical Job Functions: Certain jobs at Duke University and Duke University Health System may include essentialjob functions that require specific physical and/or mental abilities. Additional information and provision for requests for reasonable accommodation will be provided by each hiring department.