Research Associate - Structural Biologist
The University of Texas at Austin · Austin, TX · 2 days ago
Analyst$62k/yrFull-time
About the role
Carry out research in structural biology and biochemistry of reverse transcriptase and related enzymes and their nucleic acid complexes.
Responsibilities
- Express, purify, and characterize full-length and deletion constructs of group II intron and other non-LTR retroelement reverse transcriptase and related proteins for structural analysis and biotechnological applications using Fast Protein Liquid Chromatography FPLC and other methods.
- Characterize wild-type and mutant proteins biochemically via enzymatic assays and determine conditions for obtaining diffraction quality crystals and/or for cryo-electron microscopy analysis of proteins and protein/nucleic acid complexes.
- Carry out biochemical and biophysical assays.
- Obtain structures of reverse transcriptase and related enzymes and their nucleic acid-protein complexes by X-ray diffraction and/or cryo-EM structures.
- Write manuscripts and assist in the preparation of reports, abstracts, manuscripts and proposals.
- Make presentations at lab meetings.
- Attend lab meetings and other meetings.
- Order chemicals and supplies specific to current project.
- Provide instruction, assistance and mentoring to graduate students.
Qualifications
- Ph.D. in structural biology and/or biochemistry with demonstrated productivity in these areas.
- Relevant education and experience may be substituted as appropriate.
Preferred Qualifications
- Ph.D. in structural biology and/or biochemistry with at least three years’ experience and demonstrated research productivity on enzymes that bind nucleic acids and/or protein-nucleic acid complexes.
Skills
- Strong background in structural biology and biochemistry.
- Experience with biochemical and biophysical assays.
- Knowledge of X-ray diffraction and cryo-electron microscopy techniques.
- Excellent communication and presentation skills.
- Ability to mentor and instruct graduate students.
Benefits
Personal protection equipment (furnished)
May work around chemical fumes
May work around standard office conditions
May work around bio-hazards
May work around chemicals
Pay
$62,000 + depending on qualifications
Schedule
Weekly Scheduled Hours: 40