Temporary Research Assistant
Job Summary:
The Murray Lab in the Department of Molecular and Cell Biology at the University of Connecticut is seeking a research technician to join our team in the investigation of biomolecular condensates. The laboratory uses a variety of experimental biophysical tools to investigate the microscopic, atomic resolution, underpinnings of functional and pathogenic protein and nucleic acid assemblies at macroscopic length scales. A successful candidate will join our growing research team and assist with projects pertaining to the molecular mechanisms of biomolecular assembly for RNA granule proteins and intermediate filament proteins. The position is NIH-funded (R35GM142892). On the job training will be provided.
The Murray Lab has access to cryo-electron microscopy instrumentation is through the recently installed Tundra microscope at UConn Health and nearby Titan Krios equipped facilities like the NYSBC national center. UConn is home to a wide range of other core facilities for biophysical characterization. Access to high-field NMR instruments for solid and solution state samples at UConn Storrs and UConn Health. Magic angle spinning instruments include the installation of a 700 MHz with several room temperature probes this fall and an installation of an additional 700 MHz spectrometer with a cryogenic MAS probe in 2025. Solution state instruments include 800, 600, and 500 MHz spectrometers with cryogenic probes.
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Prepare samples from bacterial and/or eukaryotic expression systems (chromatography, electrophoresis, spectroscopy, bright field imaging, and negative stain electron microscopy)
- Assist the laboratory principal investigator, postdoctoral researchers, and graduate students with the characterization of protein structure at or near atomic resolution using major structural biology tools (cryo-electron microscopy, solid state NMR, solution state NMR, or crystallography)
- Analyze and present results (prepare figures and project summaries for manuscripts, prepare group meeting discussions, and prepare progress reports).
- Assist with web and database searches for information on research and laboratory equipment and supplies
- Assist the principal investigator with daily operations of the laboratory
- Perform other duties as assigned
Minimum Qualifications:
- B.S. or B.A. or the equivalent in Biophysics or related field (e.g. Chemistry, Physics, Molecular Biology)
- Strong written and oral communication skills
- Excellent organizational and interpersonal skills
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience using prokaryotic or eukaryotic microorganisms to produce recombinant proteins in milligram-scale quantities at exceptional purity
- Experience using biophysical tools to characterize proteins (e.g. microscopy, calorimetry, spectroscopy, electrophoresis, centrifugation, or other related technologies)
- Experience analyzing and presenting scientific data with a programming language like Python
Appointment Terms:
The position is a full-time, 12-month appointment, starting immediately. Compensation is commensurate with work experience and skills. The position is renewable annually based on performance, budget, and departmental needs.
To Apply:
Send a cover letter explaining interest and fit for the position, along with a curriculum vitae or resume, and contact information for three professional references to dylan.murray@uconn.edu. Review of the applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. Successful candidates will be contacted to schedule an interview.