Position Summary

A person in this position will have two primary objectives: the first is to purify proteins from peripheral human blood and characterization using mass spectrometry. The second goal is to develop an in vitro expression system to test how protein modifications impact cell activation. The goal of these studies is to determine how cells in the human immune system modify antibody-binding receptors and define how these modifications impact cell activation.

This project is funded by the National Institutes of Health. The goal of this research is to characterize how a specific group of proteins, the Fc gamma receptors, are modified in the human body. Our laboratory has developed protocols to isolate proteins from primary human monocytes and natural killer cells that were isolated from apheresis and through negative selection. We have also determined that modification of the Fc gamma receptors affects antibody binding affinity in vitro. The goal of this position is to determine if receptor modifications impact cell activation.

Duties/Responsibilities

• Isolate Fc gamma receptors from primary human cells (20%)
• Characterize Fc gamma receptors from primary human cells using mass spectrometry (20%)
• Develop a recombinant in vitro model system to express appropriately modified Fc gamma receptors (40%)
• Scientific writing of manuscripts, reports and grants (20%)

Relevant/Preferred Education, Experience, Licensure, Certification in Position

A Ph.D. in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Cell Biology or a related field. Preferred Qualifications: A preferred candidate will have significant experience purifying proteins or experience using mammalian cells. An ideal candidate will have significant experience in both aspects of this position. Experience with mass spectrometry is also valuable, but not required.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and/or Competencies

Be able to create, test and then teach complex written molecular biology or biochemical protocols. Have excellent sterile technique. Be proficient with primer design, various forms of PCR, DNA/RNA-purification, gel electrophoresis and sequencing. Must be able to transform, overexpress and purify proteins from a host organisms. Excellent record keeping and organizational skills. Must be able to prepare scientific manuscripts and oral presentations. Must be able to work as a team-member and team-lead.