Research Scientist/Engineer 3

About the Role

The department of Microbiology has an outstanding opportunity for a Research Scientist/Engineer 3 to join their team, reporting to the Professor. This role will execute laboratory projects and provide experimental support for research investigating the genetic basis of antibiotic resistance in Gram-negative bacterial pathogens. The position works in a prominent laboratory with global impact, contributing to enhanced funding opportunities and the University's reputation as a biomedical research leader.

Responsibilities

• Genetics Research Activities (40%):
  • Conduct independent research to develop genetic methodologies and identify genotype–phenotype associations in Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Acinetobacter baumannii, and other bacteria.
  • Perform large-scale sequencing of saturation-level transposon mutagenesis to identify essential genes and conduct genetic selections to investigate bacterial adaptation and antibiotic resistance mechanisms.
  • Construct targeted gene deletion mutants in P. aeruginosa and A. baumannii to study gene function and bacterial phenotypes.
• Analyze, Design, and Develop Research Technologies (30%):
  • Analyze single-mutant phenotypes using Biolog phenotypic microarrays and develop custom technologies for bacterial pathogens like A. baumannii and Klebsiella pneumoniae, while directing junior scientists.
  • Develop novel plasmid vectors and genetically modified A. baumannii strains for DNA introduction and genetic analysis.
  • Design and evaluate experimental approaches, using software for data compilation, analysis, and statistical interpretation.
• Research Advisory and Training Responsibilities (20%):
  • Advise scientists on Biolog phenotypic analysis assays as a core service.
  • Train laboratory personnel in Omnilog apparatus, Tn-seq circle method, and targeted deletion mutation techniques.
  • Supervise and direct lab personnel in techniques, equipment operation, and safety procedures.
  • Oversee lab operations and assist in equipment and procedure selection.
• Scientific Writing and Presentations (10%):
  • Prepare and present written and oral reports of experimental results, including data analysis and interpretation.
  • Assist in reviewing and writing scientific manuscripts for publication.

Qualifications

• Minimum Qualifications:
  • Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Biochemistry, Life Science, Genetics, Genomics, or related field.
  • Four years of experience providing experimental support for projects investigating antibiotic resistance genetics.
• Additional Qualifications:
  • Experience with transposon mutagenesis in P. aeruginosa and A. baumannii.
  • Familiarity with Sanger and Illumina sequencing for transposon mutant characterization.
  • Experience in antibiotic sensitivity assays and constructing regulated expression/deletion alleles.
  • Genetic manipulation expertise in P. aeruginosa and A. baumannii.
  • Experience with QPix robotic methods for bacterial colony handling.
  • Proficiency in DNA cloning, PCR, and molecular biology techniques.
  • Approval for BSL2 work with pathogenic organisms.
  • Experience with Omnilog Phenotypic Microarray technology.
  • Basic computational skills (Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
  • Attention to procedural detail.
• Preferred Qualifications:
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team.
  • Willingness to learn and adapt new techniques.
  • Excellent communication and organizational skills.
  • Meticulous record-keeping and sample management.
  • Experience preparing data for publication and managing lab supplies.

Pay

Pay Range: $90,000.00 - $93,000.00 annual

For information about benefits, visit https://www.washington.edu/jobs/benefits-for-uw-staff/