Research Specialist I/II

We are seeking a highly motivated, adaptable, and curious Research Technician to work in Dr. Bonnie Bassler's laboratory at Princeton University. The Bassler group aims to understand how bacteria communicate and orchestrate group behaviors, including virulence and biofilm formation in pathogens.  Bassler and her team are providing insight into: intra-species, inter-species, and inter-domain communication; population-level cooperation; and the principles underlying signal transduction and information processing at the population and individual cell levels. One objective of Bassler's team is to develop quorum-sensing interference strategies to combat pathogenic bacteria that use this process to regulate virulence.

This position is focused on discovery, supporting research projects, and also involves light administrative responsibilities related to lab safety, ordering, and databases. This position will occasionally require flexible hours for time-course experiments. The Research Technician will directly support the science, contribute to manuscripts, and thrive in a supportive, creative, and learning-focused environment.

• Work efficiently, independently as well as collaboratively, to assist postdoctoral fellows and graduate
  students in experiments focused on bacterial pathogens, including potentially employing the following:
• Prepare and analyze purified proteins for biochemical studies, cloning, PCR, cell culture,
  gene and protein expression, time-course assays, and standard basic molecular biology techniques
  Assay, evaluate, and characterize small molecule candidates as anti-microbials
• Analyze data and prepare figures for papers and presentations
• Assist with other support duties relating to lab management and operations
• Participate in laboratory group meetings and read literature applicable to the research area

1. Bachelor's degree with course work in biochemistry, genetics, and molecular biology
2. Demonstrated ability to plan, coordinate, and carry out independent research
3. At least 2 years of hands-on, post-grad experience working in a research lab, with experience in basic molecular biology techniques, dose response time-courses assays, standard biochemical assays, and computer database usage; extensive and self-driven undergraduate thesis-level lab experience will be considered
4. Flexibility to adapt to the science and research needs of the lab and its members, as well as excellent listening, communication, and collaboration skills
5. Ability to work both independently and collaboratively, as well as ability to learn complex tasks with instruction, and to use experience to perform a variety of new techniques, actively seeking opportunities to increase skills and expertise

6. Previous experience with any of the following standard molecular biological techniques is preferred but not necessary - Transformations and reporter assays, bacterial genetics, biochemistry, microtiter dish-based assays; comfort with data analysis
7. Master's degree in biology, microbiology, or molecular biology is preferred

Princeton University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. EEO IS THE LAW