Research Professional I

The R. Ken Coit College of Pharmacy invites applications for a Research Professional I position in the Wang Laboratory to support research focused on neurodegenerative diseases and the development of small-molecule therapeutics. The position will conduct laboratory experiments in recombinant protein expression, purification and characterization, molecular and cell biology, biochemistry, imaging, and quantitative data analysis. The individual will perform established research procedures, optimize and troubleshoot assays with guidance from senior researchers, and contribute to protein-small molecule binding and target-engagement studies. The position will work collaboratively with the PI and other laboratory members while taking responsibility for assigned experimental workflows.

Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

Outstanding U of A benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance plans; life insurance and disability programs; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; U of A/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; retirement plans; access to U of A recreation and cultural activities; and more!

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• Under the direction of the PI, perform recombinant protein expression, purification, quality assessment, and biochemical characterization using affinity purification, chromatography/FPLC, SDS-PAGE, Western blotting, and related approaches.
• Collaborate with PI and researcher team to design and conduct biochemical assays for protein-small molecule interactions, binding affinity, target engagement, protein stability, aggregation, and related small-molecule characterization studies; assist with assay optimization.
• Perform molecular and cell biology experiments according to research plan, including cloning/construct preparation, mammalian cell culture, compound treatment, immunoblotting, immunostaining, and related cell-based assays.
• Perform fluorescence/confocal imaging and quantitative image/data analysis; organize, interpret, and present experimental results, prepare analysis for research reports, and maintain accurate research records.
• Maintain experimental workflows, reagents, constructs, cell lines, and laboratory equipment; assist with protocol development, troubleshooting, and preparation of figures/research reports.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Knowledge of basic principles of protein biochemistry, molecular biology, cell biology, and quantitative experimental design.
• Skilled in recombinant protein expression/purification and protein characterization; experience with chromatography/FPLC, affinity purification, SDS-PAGE, or Western blotting.
• Skilled in mammalian cell culture, molecular cloning, immunostaining, fluorescence/confocal imaging, and quantitative data analysis.
• Ability to conduct components of research projects according to established plans, collect and analyze data, identify problems, and work collaboratively with senior researchers.
• Ability to learn and perform protein-small molecule binding and biophysical assays (e.g., SPR, BLI, MST, thermal-shift or related approaches) and to optimize assay conditions.
• Ability to troubleshoot identifiable experimental problems, maintain rigorous records, communicate results, and work both independently on assigned tasks and collaboratively within a research team.

This job posting reflects the general nature and level of work expected of the selected candidate(s). It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities. The institution reserves the right to amend or update this description as organizational priorities and institutional needs evolve.

• Bachelor's degree in biochemistry, molecular biology, cell biology, chemistry, chemical biology, pharmaceutical sciences, neuroscience, or a related field, or equivalent advanced learning attained through experience.
• One year of relevant laboratory research experience may be required, consistent with the Research Professional I classification.

• Prior hands-on experience in recombinant protein purification/characterization, protein biochemistry, molecular biology, cell culture, imaging, or small-molecule/drug-discovery assays.
• Experience with protein-small molecule binding assays or assay development/optimization is particularly valuable. The position will provide opportunities to contribute to research presentations and publications.