Research Specialist II

A full-time Research Specialist I/II position is available in the laboratory of Dr. John Jimah at Princeton University. We study the mechanisms of membrane remodeling processes in human cells and malaria parasites. We primarily apply cryo-electron microscopy and tomography to investigate how human and parasite proteins enable cellular processes including endocytosis and the biogenesis of organelles. This position offers an excellent opportunity to contribute to a vibrant research program, and Dr. Jimah is a committed to fostering the career development of all members of the research group.
This position will be within the Molecular Biology Department, an innovative, vibrant, collegial, collaborative, and excellent research environment. Princeton University is in an idyllic town midway between New York City and Philadelphia, with convenient train access to both cities.

The main responsibilities of the research specialist will be the expression and purification of proteins from bacterial, insect, and mammalian expression systems. There is also the opportunity for independent structural studies using cryoEM and/or X-ray crystallography. The research specialist will also have the opportunity to develop their own independent research project.

Attention to detail, precision, good record keeping, organization, time-management and communication skills are essential.
The research specialist will have the opportunity to learn a variety of molecular biology, biochemical/biophysical, and structural biology techniques in a collaborative, vibrant, and supportive environment.

• Protein expression in bacterial, insect, and mammalian expression systems.
• Protein purification by affinity and size exclusion chromatography.
• Maintenance of standard mammalian and insect cell lines for protein expression (for example, HEK 293 F cells).
• Molecular biology procedures including recombinant DNA technology, cloning protein constructs, polymerase chain reaction, sequencing of DNA, plasmid isolation.
• Performing well-established biochemical and biophysical assays, including calorimetric enzymatic assays.
• Keeping up to date with technical skills and scientific literature relevant to the research program and laboratory techniques.

Required:

• Bachelor’s degree
• Minimum 1 year of laboratory experience (experience from STEM-related course work is sufficient).
• Dependable; attention to detail; precision; good record keeping, organization, time-management and communication skills are essential.
• Ability to work effectively independently and as part of a team.
• Strong analytical skills.
• A complete application must consist of: (1) a resume/CV, (2) a cover letter describing research interests and career goals (~1-2 pages and your GPA if you are a recent graduate) and (3) contact information for three professional references.

Preferred:

• Outstanding academic record with bachelor’s degree in Molecular Biology, Biology, Biochemistry, Biophysics, Chemistry, Microbiology, Bioengineering, physics, computer science or related fields.
• Experience with protein expression and purification.
• Experience with molecular biology and recombinant DNA technology.
• Ability to independently trouble-shoot experiments.
• Experience with Linux, Python, HTML, Adobe Illustrator (or Inkscape), and/or image analysis.

The position start date is negotiable. Although the initial appointment is for a two-year term, it is renewable contingent on satisfactory performance and/or career plans of the candidate.

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. KNOW YOUR RIGHTS