Job Description
The Lu Lab is seeking a highly motivated and technically skilled Research Assistant to support ongoing efforts in small-molecule discovery targeting the ubiquitin–proteasome system (UPS). The position will contribute to a multidisciplinary drug discovery pipeline aimed at identifying and validating inhibitors of a large HECT-domain E3 ubiquitin ligase implicated in cancer and other diseases. This role is ideal for candidates interested in research at the interface of chemical biology, protein biochemistry, and cell biology, with opportunities to engage in both assay development and mechanistic studies. In addition to performing scientific experiments, this role will also be responsible for lab management tasks and mouse colony maintenance.
Key Responsibilities Include:
- Execute and optimize biochemical and cell-based assays to evaluate small-molecule inhibitors (e.g., ubiquitination assays, reporter systems).
- Support hit validation and SAR workflows in collaboration with external partners.
- Analyze experimental data and maintain accurate, reproducible records.
- Perform mammalian cell culture, including maintenance of engineered cell lines (e.g., CRISPR KO, inducible systems).
- Conduct molecular cloning (e.g. plasmid design, PCR), lentiviral production, and stable cell line generation.
- Perform western blotting, protein expression analysis, and microscopy-based assays.
- Express and purify recombinant proteins (from both E.coli and mammalian cells).
- Assist in biochemical characterization of enzyme activity and inhibitor interactions.
- Support mouse work, including colony maintenance and experimental procedures (e.g. Xenografts models).
- Assist with lab management responsibilities including ordering, inventory, equipment maintenance, and safety trainings.
Qualifications
Basic Qualifications: College background in Biology, Biochemistry, Chemical Biology, or a related field, and 1-2+ of relevant laboratory experience.
Additional Qualifications and Skills: Bachelor's degree preferred. Experience in protein biochemistry including: protein purification, enzymatic assays, western blotting. Familiarity with mammalian cell culture and genetic manipulation (CRISPR, shRNA, or lentiviral systems). Experience in molecular cloning (PCR, restriction digest, Gibson Assembly, Goldengate Assembly, transformation, etc.). Basic data analysis/programming. Exposure to drug screening or chemical biology approaches is highly desirable. Experience with mouse handling is a plus (not required).
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