Researcher: interactomics of human retrotransposons and viral mimics

Job Title:Researcher: interactomics of human retrotransposons and viral mimics

Job Number: 131509

Location: Omaha,US

The Researcher position is an experienced molecular/cell biologist or biochemist with demonstrated competence in protein and nucleic acids analyses. Prior experience in the fields of retrotransposon biology, innate immunity, sterile inflammation, viral mimicry and/or aging are desirable.

The hired candidate will work with Prof. John LaCava and his lab members, coordinate national and international collaborations at the direction of Prof. LaCava, and engage with additional technical specialists as may be needed to assist in all stages of projects, including design, execution, and analysis.

This position will involve (1) conducting your own research targeting the functional interactions of LINE-1 retrotransposons and other forms of endogenous viral mimicry, such as Z-form nucleic acids (majority of time); and (2) some lab managerial and administrative tasks as well (minority of time): working in conjunction with and in support of the lab manager – such as lab and equipment maintenance, SOP development, lab protocol and data stewardship.

The ability to contribute competent ‘omics bioinformatic analyses to group projects is also a plus.

Preferred education: graduate degree

Preferred hands-on experience with nucleic acids biochemistry & molecular biology techniques: 3 years+

The LaCava lab develops cutting edge approaches for (protein and nucleic acids) interactomics – often drawing upon customized, boutique affinity enrichments to define macromolecular assemblies and their functional roles. From a biological perspective, the lab is principally interested in the molecular biology of LINE-1 retrotransposons, as well as other sources of viral mimicry that contribute to aging- and disease-related sterile inflammation.

A range of other biological topics are also covered within the lab and most research is further bolstered by national and international collaborations. The lab is devoted to curiosity-driven biological discovery and follows the research where inspiration leads!