Research Technician II - Molecular Microbiology

Research Technician II - Molecular Microbiology

Washington University in St. Louis

Location:

St. Louis, Missouri

Type:
Full-time

Internal Number: JR95278

Scheduled

Hours:

40

The Kanjee lab studies how malaria parasites infect human red blood cells (RBCs). We are interested in identifying host receptors required by the parasite during RBC invasion, with a specific focus on the understudied parasite Plasmodium vivax. We use red blood cell genetics approaches (CRISPR/Cas9 knockout/knockdown & gene complementation) to understand the functional mechanisms of candidate host receptors during parasite invasion.

This position in the Kanjee lab will assist with experiments involving general molecular cloning, designing CRISPR/Cas9 knockout, knockdown and host receptor gene complementation constructs, in vitro culturing of primary and immortalized erythroid cells, culturing of malaria parasites, validation of host RBC genetic knockouts/knockdowns/complementation via flow cytometry and Western blot. These experiments will involve: collection of data, preparation of cultures, media and set‑up and maintenance of equipment.

Assists with the technical aspects of studies and experiments, including documentation and preparation of materials.

• Assists with research studies, experiments and assays, including collection of data, preparation of solutions and setup and maintenance of equipment.
• Performs data entry and maintains data files on research.
• Prepares tissue cultures, reagents, probe tests, etc.
• Complies with established safety procedures and maintains required documentation on laboratory and specimen conditions.
• Ensures lab conditions and equipment are properly cleaned and maintained in accordance with established procedures.
• Assists with general lab maintenance and cleaning.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

• This position works in a laboratory environment with potential exposure to biological and chemical hazards.
• The individual must be physically able to wear protective equipment and to provide standard care to research animals.

Bachelor's degree or a combination of education and/or experience may substitute for minimum education.

No specific certification/professional license is required for this position.

No specific work experience is required for this position.

Not Applicable

A driver's license is not required for this position.

• The ideal candidate will have up to one year of experience in a laboratory setting.
• Prior experience with in vitro cell culture in BSL2 work environment is an asset.
• Prior experience with mammalian genetics approaches and molecular cloning is an asset.
• Prior experience with parasite culture is an asset.
• Working knowledge of spreadsheets and statistical analyses.
• Excellent record keeping, organizational skills, and ability to interact with others.

R06-H

$16.92 - $26.44 / Hourly

Washington University in St. Louis is committed to the principles and practices of equal employment opportunity. It is the University's policy to provide equal opportunity and access to persons in all job titles without regard to race, ethnicity, color, national origin, citizenship (where prohibited by federal law), age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.