Research Lab Specialist Inter - Maurer Lab

Biophysicists at Michigan are working in the fields of Structural Biology, Spectroscopy and Microscopy, Computational Biophysics and Bioinformatics, and Biophysical Chemistry. Approximately 80 graduate students, postdocs, and professors work in our well-equipped laboratories. The graduate program offers a flexible curriculum of exciting courses related to these fields, taking advantage of the resources available at a major research University. Find out more information about Biophysics here.

The mission of the University of Michigan is to serve the people of Michigan and the world through preeminence in creating, communicating, preserving and applying knowledge, art, and academic values, and in developing leaders and citizens who will challenge the present and enrich the future.

The Maurer laboratory at the University of Michigan is currently seeking a Research Lab Specialist Intermediate. The Maurer Lab combines super-resolution microscopy with genomic, biochemical, and proteomic approaches to understand the vector-host interactions driving successful rAAV gene therapies. Read more about our research here: (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..html

We are particularly interested in a candidate who has experience with mammalian cell culture and molecular cloning techniques. The Maurer lab is part of the Department of Biophysics , which has a long tradition of education and research in the field. The University of Michigan Department of Biophysics has pushed the boundaries of traditional work in fundamental chemical sciences into the interface with other disciplines.

• 40% Under the general direction of the faculty member and Senior Scientist, develop, design, and conduct research using microscopy, molecular biology, and biochemical techniques, using both cultured cells and animal models. Produce recombinant AAV vector preparations at medium scales, perform all quality control of vector preparations, and clone & maintain all plasmid stocks required to do so. Document, analyze and evaluate results;
  
  identify new research methods/techniques; identify and solve research problems.
• 25% Training and assisting Research Fellows, graduate students, and undergraduate students with preparations, research techniques, use of instruments, methods, and procedures to help advance the research objectives of the laboratory.
• 20% Assay Development and implementation, including but not limited to Nanopore sequencing for vector genome integrity, whole DNA extraction and quantification from transduced cells, and vector titration methodology.
• 10% Maintaining adequate stocks and documentation of supplies, preparing and aliquoting reagents, assisting in hazardous and nonhazardous waste disposal/removal, and ensuring the lab is using environmentally responsible practices (i.e., minimizing plastic waste in landfills).
• 5% Assisting the PI and Senior Scientist with administrative tasks relevant to research goals.

• Molecular and Cellular Biology-related MS degree with 2+ years of experience in Adeno-associated virus/vector research
• BS or MS degree with 4+ years of experience in Adeno-associated virus/vector research (academic or industry). Experience must be with AAV, not other viral vectors.
• Expertise in producing recombinant AAV vectors at small- to medium-scale, including purification, titer assessment by qPCR and ddPCR, and quality control.
• Expertise in designing and implementing rAAV capsid and vector genome variants
• Strong working knowledge of AAV biology and the primary literature.
• Expertise in molecular cloning, including Gibson assembly, PCR, restriction digestions and ligation, site-directed mutagenesis, type II-S, and troubleshooting.

• Preferred experience administering rAAV vectors to mice and harvesting relevant tissues, but willingness to learn is sufficient.
• Preferred experience generating transgenic cell lines and maintaining stocks of cryopreserved lines
• Preferred experience in mammalian cell culture beyond HEK
  293 cells. Organoid and/or primary cell culture experience is a major plus.

We are so proud that the University of Michigan offers comprehensive benefits to support your wellness as you plan for a stable and secure future. To enhance a career filled with purpose and opportunity, other benefits include:

• Generous time off programs.
• Our retirement plan provides two-for-one matching contributions.
• Comprehensive options for health, dental, vision, life, disability, and other insurance.
• Flexible spending accounts for healthcare and dependent care expenses.
• Tuition support, including the ability to take undergraduate courses in LSA at no cost.
• Meeting-free days and communication norms that help you to "unplug" from work.
• Access to deals, discounts, and attractions; see Uniquely Michigan for details.

While you will primarily work from our central campus in Ann Arbor, LSA offers flexible work options. To support work-life balance, LSA has an email…