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Junior Specialist-Molecular and Cell Biology/Neuroscience

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Position description

The Department of Physiology and Membrane Biology, University of California, Davis, School of Medicine, seeks to hire two employees as a Junior Specialist in Dr. Trimmer’s lab. This position will undertake research employing molecular and cell biology level techniques focused on neuroscience research questions.

Successful candidates are expected to participate in three major categories of activities listed below:

  1. RESEARCH (90% EFFORT)
    This position requires creative contributions to an active research program investigating topics relevant to the research area of molecular neurobiology. The candidate will help to determine research goals for defined projects in regular consultation with the Principal Investigator. She/he will design and spearhead specific projects, including the selection of appropriate methods and techniques and to document and organize the results in preparation of scientific publications or grant proposals. The candidate will perform RNA extraction, library generation, phage display selection, antibody characterization, PCR, Gibson assembly, ligations, transformations, minipreps, maxipreps, agarose gel electrophoresis, and sequence analysis as related to generation and characterization of recombinant antibodies and nanobodies. This position also entails the subsequent extensive use of these antibodies in novel cell biological, immunohistochemical and biochemical analyses of the target proteins in the nervous system. This position includes playing an extensive role in experimental design, in executing experiments with attention to detail, in interpreting results, and planning follow-up experiments, as well as trouble-shooting any experimental problems. Experience in cell biology, biochemistry and cell culture required, as well as an affinity for a variety of microscopy- based imaging techniques. Excellence in standard laboratory techniques (recombinant DNA manipulation, protein purification and electrophoresis, immunoblotting, immunocytochemistry, immunohistochemistry) and a strong work ethic are expected. This position also involves interaction with lab members to assess and address research priorities and needs across the group, and presentation/participation in group meetings. This position requires careful attention to detail, including accurate and comprehensive documentation of results in databases that are critical for subsequent experiments. This position requires significant involvement in publishable research activities, including reviewing journal articles and engaging in discussions on research and the interpretation of research results. The ideal candidate will have strong logistical skills, be able to prioritize projects, make efficient use of time and have the ability to work as part of a team in a fast-paced research lab.

  2. PROFESSIONAL COMPETENCE AND ACTIVITY (5 % EFFORT)
    The candidate will be expected to join the Society for Neuroscience, attend conferences, participate and contribute to departmental and college seminars, journal clubs and other activities, as applicable.

  3. SERVICE (5% EFFORT)
    Candidate will be expected to mentor undergraduates in the lab, participate in an contribute to laboratory and group meetings and other activities, as applicable.


BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Bachelor degree in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Cell Biology, Immunology, Neurobiology or related discipline. (Degree must be awarded by 06/30/2019 or before start date, whichever is sooner)
  • Basic laboratory skills related to modern recombinant DNA techniques, cell biological and protein techniques, and as used in immunoassays
  • Ability to follow standard operating procedures as well as to recognize problems to discuss and troubleshoot with other laboratory personnel when necessary
  • Excellent time management, interpersonal, organizational and communication skills
  • Skills to perform accurate mathematical calculations, to practice precise laboratory techniques, to manage laboratory supplies and equipment and to keep neat and accurate records of all experimental details
  • Knowledge of and experience with laboratory safety and EH&S hazardous biological and chemical safety requirements
  • Broad knowledge and understanding of solution chemistry, pH buffers, weights and osmolarity, as well as scientific knowledge at the general level

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Ability to use manual and automated liquid-handling equipment and its associated hardware and software
  • Prior lab experience using techniques described above
  • Background in molecular biology, biochemistry and cell biology and in modern recombinant DNA techniques, cell biological and protein techniques, and in immunoassays
  • Ability to train and supervise student assistants to properly perform laboratory procedures and experiments

TERM OF APPOINTMENT:

Part-time (50%) to Full-Time (100%) appointment, Initial appointment is for 12 months. Short term (up to two years), reappointment is pending satisfactory performance, needs of the research project, and sufficient funding.

TO APPLY:
To apply, please go to the following link: https://recruit.ucdavis.edu/JPF02796 . For full consideration, applications must be received by May 15, 2019; however, the position will remain open until filled through December 31, 2019.

Qualified applicants should submit:

  • Cover Letter (Generic cover letters that do not address the specific qualification for this position are not acceptable)
  • CV including details of previous research experience
  • Contact information for 3 references

UC Davis commits to inclusion excellence by advancing equity, diversity and inclusion in all that we do. We are an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity employer, and particularly encourage applications from members of historically underrepresented racial/ethnic groups, women, individuals with disabilities, veterans, LGBTQ community members, and others who demonstrate the ability to help us achieve our vision of a diverse and inclusive community. For the complete University of California nondiscrimination and affirmative action policy see: http://policy.ucop.edu/doc/4000376/NondiscrimAffirmAct. If you need accommodation due to a disability, please contact the recruiting department.

Under Federal law, the University of California may employ only individuals who are legally able to work in the United States as established by providing documents as specified in the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986. Certain positions funded by federal contracts or sub-contracts require the selected candidate to pass an E-Verify check. More information is available http://www.uscis.gov/e-verify.

UC Davis is a smoke & tobacco-free campus (http://breathefree.ucdavis.edu/)

Application Requirements

Document requirements
  • Curriculum Vitae - Your most recently updated C.V., including details of previous research experience

  • Cover Letter - Generic cover letters that do not address the specific qualification for this position are not acceptable

Reference requirements
  • 3-5 required (contact information only)
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Job location

Davis, CA