Technician B

Position Summary

The Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented temporary Technician B to join Dr. Eric Greene's lab. This position will involve detailed mechanistic studies of homologous DNA recombination using a variety of research methodologies. The applicant will be expected to use total internal reflection fluorescence microscopy with single molecule DNA curtain technologies to study the mechanisms of DNA end processing using the human enzymes BLM, WRN, DNA2 and RPA. The incumbent will be reporting to the Principal Investigator, Dr. Greene.

Responsibilities

Duties will include, but are not limited to the following:

1. Perform various specialized scientific investigative procedures in support of assigned research projects. Including, but not limited to DNA cloning and analysis, protein expression and purification, in vitro biochemical analysis of protein activity, and single molecule studies of protein function.
2. May configure, operate, and maintain specialized equipment; may train others in use of single molecule microscopy equipment.
3. Identify methodological problems in research protocols and develop solutions to those problems, and develop innovative techniques and systems required to meet research goals.
4. May use software applications to assemble, manipulate, format and/or perform statistical analyses of data.
5. Coordinate specialized and novel research functions and prepare reports about research projects for presentation at scientific meetings and manuscripts for publication.
6. On a routine basis, review research activities to determine where new information could improve processes or move projects forward.
7. Perform other related duties and responsibilities as assigned/requested.

Minimum Qualifications

• Requires a bachelor’s degree in chemistry, biology, physics, or related science or equivalent combination of education, training and experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• Successful applicants should have a track record demonstrating an ability to make sound decisions based on knowledge and experience, advanced expertise in many areas with a full understanding of the underlying principles and concepts, in-depth understanding of organizational structure both within and outside the work unit, including the role of each position in the group and in other groups.
• The applicant should have experience with the use of total internal reflection fluorescence microscopy in combination with DNA curtain assays to study protein-nucleic acid interactions.
• May assist in training colleagues on standard procedures and provide input on process improvements to support operational goals.