Research Technician II in Bacteriophage Defense and Molecular Biology

Institution: Washington University in St. Louis (WashU Medicine)
Laboratory: Ghanbarpour Laboratory
Department: Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics

Washington University in St. Louis (WashU Medicine) is seeking a motivated Research Technician II to join the Ghanbarpour Laboratory in the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics.

The laboratory investigates how bacteria and human mitochondria maintain cellular homeostasis and respond to stress, environmental changes, and pathogen attack. A major focus is understanding the molecular mechanisms of ATP-dependent AAA proteolytic machines and their roles in protein degradation, bacterial stress responses, and cellular function.

The research team also investigates bacterial defense mechanisms against bacteriophage infection, including protective systems that help bacteria survive phage attacks. Additional research areas include protein engineering and the development of new molecular tools.

The selected candidate will assist with laboratory experiments, biochemical and cellular assays, data collection, equipment maintenance, and research documentation. The position offers hands-on training in advanced research techniques, including cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM), cryo-electron tomography (cryo-ET), mass spectrometry, membrane biology, and biochemical analysis.

The Research Technician II will:

• Assist with laboratory research studies, experiments, and biochemical assays.
• Collect, organise, enter, and maintain research data and laboratory records.
• Prepare laboratory solutions, reagents, and experimental materials.
• Set up, operate, and maintain laboratory equipment.
• Prepare tissue cultures and conduct relevant laboratory procedures.
• Follow established laboratory safety protocols and maintain required documentation.
• Monitor laboratory and specimen conditions to ensure reliable research operations.
• Clean and maintain laboratory equipment and work spaces.
• Support general laboratory operations and perform additional duties as assigned.

The position provides opportunities to gain experience in:

• Bacteriophage biology: Understanding bacterial defense mechanisms against phage infection.
• Biochemistry: Investigating protein function, degradation, and molecular interactions.
• Structural biology: Cryo-EM and cryo-ET sample preparation and data analysis.
• Mass spectrometry: Supporting advanced molecular and protein analysis.
• Membrane biology: Studying membrane‑associated protein complexes.
• Cellular assays: Investigating biological responses to stress and environmental challenges.
• Protein engineering: Developing molecular tools based on proteolytic systems.

The exact techniques assigned will depend on the laboratory’s research needs and the candidate’s training.

• A bachelor’s degree, or an acceptable combination of education and experience in lieu of the degree requirement.
• Up to one year of laboratory experience.
• An academic or practical background in biochemistry, microbiology, genetics, cell biology, or protein engineering.
• Familiarity with laboratory research procedures and experimental documentation.

Candidates should demonstrate or be willing to develop the following skills:

• Laboratory research and experimental techniques.
• Operation and maintenance of laboratory instruments.
• Accurate data entry and detailed research documentation.
• Preparation of solutions, reagents, and experimental materials.
• Written and verbal communication.
• Ability to work independently and contribute to a collaborative research environment.
• Attention to detail and adherence to laboratory safety procedures.

The position is supported by funded from:

• National Institutes of Health (NIH) grant R35GM
  160328.
• The Longer Life Foundation.
• Siteman Cancer Center Catalysts Award.
• Washington University startup funds.