Research Technician; Biochemistry - Vanderbilt University

The Research Technician will be part of the Wan lab in the Biochemistry department at Vanderbilt University. The overall goal of the Wan lab is to determine the molecular mechanisms behind viral infection using structural biology. This position will help maintain day to day functions of the lab, help establish new experimental protocols, and participate in novel research. This position will require both independent and collaborative work, so the abilities to learn new techniques, self-manage projects, and work in a team is essential. This position includes opportunities for publication and laboratory experience that can provide a strong background for future applications to advanced degree programs.







The Wan research laboratory in the department of Biochemistry at Vanderbilt University investigates the structural basis of viral assembly and replication under near-native conditions. Near-native conditions include intact virions as well as the spatial and temporal distribution of viral machinery within cells. The primary techniques to achieve this will be molecular biology, live cell imaging, and cryo-electron tomography (cryo-ET). While our lab has a strong focus on methods development, we also incorporate a range of biochemical and biophysical approaches in pursuing our biological aims. The work unit is made up of faculty, research staff, postdoctoral fellows, and graduate students.







Duties and Responsibilities:





Assists in Research and Development:





• Researches and collects data using appropriate lab experiments, procedures, and techniques

• Preparation of buffers and reagents

• Production and maintenance of DNA vectors, mammalian cell lines, and virus stocks

• Production and purification of virus and virus-like particles using mammalian cell culture

• Preparation of viruses, virus-like particles, and virus-infected cells for cryo-ET

• Collects, analyzes, and interprets data with assistance of other members of the laboratory

• Writes and updates laboratory protocols

• Reports on status of research activities in oral and written formats

• Assembles and compile research data for presentation and/or reports







Maintenance





• Conducts general lab maintenance

• Assists in set up, operation, and maintenance of laboratory equipment including, but not limited to – biosafety cabinets, incubators, centrifuges, etc.

• Proper storage and maintenance of DNA and virus stocks



Performs administrative duties



• Monitors inventory of supplies and assists with ordering

• Participate in weekly and bimonthly meetings to discuss project progress

• Other tasks as directed by supervisor





Qualifications









+ A Bachelor’s degree in biochemistry, biological sciences, chemistry, or related field from an accredited institution of higher education is necessary.



+ Knowledge and experience with mammalian cell culture and protein expression is preferred.



+ Knowledge of virus expression and purification is preferred.



+ Knowledge of electron microscopy is preferred.



+ Knowledge of fluorescence microscopy is preferred.



+ Experience with organization, inventory, and record keeping is preferred.



+ Excellent organizational and communications skills (both verbal and written) are preferred.





Commitment to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion





At Vanderbilt University, we are intentional about and assume accountability for fostering advancement and respect for equity, diversity, and inclusion for all students, faculty, and staff. Our commitment to diversity makes us who we are. We have created a community that celebrates differences and lets individuality thrive. As part of this commitment, we actively value diversity in our workplace and learning environments as we seek to take advantage of the rich backgrounds and abilities of everyone. The diverse voices of Vanderbilt represent an invaluable resource for the University in its efforts to fulfill its mission and strive to be an example of excellence in higher education.





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







Please note, all candidates selected for an offer of employment are subject to pre-employment background checks, which may include but are not limited to, based on the role for which they have been selected: criminal history, education verification, social media review, motor vehicle records, credit history, and professional license verification.




Commitment to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion At Vanderbilt University, we are intentional about and assume accountability for fostering advancement and respect for equity, diversity, and inclusion for all students, faculty, and staff. Our commitment to diversity makes us who we are. We have created a community that celebrates differences and lets individuality thrive. As part of this commitment, we actively value diversity in our workplace and learning environments as we seek to take advantage of the rich backgrounds and abilities of everyone. The diverse voices of Vanderbilt represent an invaluable resource for the University in its efforts to fulfill its mission and strive to be an example of excellence in higher education. Vanderbilt University is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer. Women, minorities, people with disabilities, and protected veterans are encouraged to apply.