Research Technician
The Xu Lab at the Center for Retrovirus Research at The Ohio State University is seeking a highly motivated Research Technician to support cutting-edge research in vaccine design and antibody therapeutic discovery. This is a long-term position (expected commitment of >3 years) for a dedicated and reliable laboratory professional. This position is subject to a 6-month probationary period, during which performance, technical skills, and laboratory fit will be evaluated prior to continuation of long-term appointment. The primary responsibility of this role is to support the laboratorys protein production pipeline, with a strong focus on molecular cloning and recombinant protein purification. The successful candidate will play a key role in generating high-quality protein reagents that support our research, with opportunity to contribute to high-impact publications and translational research programs.
Key Responsibilities:
- Design, perform, and optimize molecular cloning for recombinant protein and antibody expression constructs.
- Conduct protein expression and purification in bacterial, insect, and mammalian systems.
- Operate and maintain chromatography systems (e.g., AeKTA/FPLC) for multi-step purification workflows.
- Optimize expression constructs and purification conditions to improve protein yield, purity, and stability.
- Maintain detailed, accurate, and reproducible experimental records.
- Manage laboratory reagents, inventory, and general laboratory organization.
- Provide consistent technical support to postdoctoral fellows and graduate students.
Working Conditions:
- Work is primarily performed in a laboratory setting with exposure to biological materials, chemical reagents, and potentially hazardous substances.
- Requires frequent use of standard laboratory equipment such as centrifuges, biosafety cabinets, microscopes, and chromatography systems.
- Requires standing or sitting for extended periods while performing experiments and data analysis.
- Must follow strict biosafety and laboratory safety guidelines to prevent contamination and ensure personal and team safety.
- May require occasional lifting of moderately heavy equipment or supplies (up to 25 lbs).
- Standard working hours with some flexibility depending on experimental requirements; occasional extended hours may be necessary to complete time-sensitive procedures.
Minimum Qualifications:
- Bachelors degree in Biochemistry, or a related field.
- Hands-on experience in molecular cloning and recombinant protein expression/purification.
- Strong understanding of molecular biology and protein biochemistry principles.
- Excellent attention to detail and strong commitment to reproducibility and high-quality experimental work.
- Ability to work independently and as a reliable member of a collaborative team.
- Strong commitment to a long-term position (≥3 years) with stability and continuity in laboratory support work.
Desired Qualifications:
- Excellent organizational skills, attention to detail, and strong teamwork and communication abilities.
- Ability to manage multiple ongoing tasks.
- Proven track record of successful laboratory work in protein expression, purification, and related molecular biology/biochemistry techniques.
Target Salary Range: $15.86 - $20.74 per hour; commensurate with experience, internal equity, the units available budget, and the candidates qualifications.
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