Research Scientist/Engr 1

FHLB Des Moines; Seattle, Northern (WA, KY); Hybrid; USD 56,000 - 58,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Washington is seeking a Research Assistant to support protein engineering efforts, focusing on optogenetically controlled RNA polymerases and cell-free assay systems. The role involves cloning, protein production, assay development, and collaboration to meet sponsor milestones and produce publications.

A Bachelor's degree in a related field with relevant laboratory experience is required, with opportunities to contribute to polymerase control projects and data-driven reporting.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree with 1 year of relevant laboratory experience.
• Experience with PCR, Gibson/Golden Gate assembly, mutagenesis, and sequence verification.
• Experience with cell-free transcription or nucleic-acid enzyme assays.
• Experience with optogenetic proteins, light-controlled assays, or fluorescence instrumentation.

Responsibilities

• Molecular cloning and construct generation – design and build plasmids for engineered polymerases and reporters.
• Protein expression and QC – express and purify polymerases and optogenetic components; perform SDS-PAGE and QC.
• In vitro functional assay development – develop cell-free transcription and polymerase assays with modified nucleotides.
• Optogenetic characterization – conduct light-control experiments and readouts.
• Sequencing preparation and data handoff – prepare samples for sequencing and maintain metadata.
• Documentation and collaboration – maintain SOPs, inventories, and coordinate with PI and collaborators.

Skills

Molecular cloning

Protein expression & purification

In vitro assay development

Optogenetics concepts

Data management & documentation

Communication & teamwork

Education

Bachelor's degree in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Bioengineering, or related field

Job description

Job Description Field of research: Protein engineering, synthetic biology, and biochemical tool development with emphasis on optogenetically controlled RNA/DNA polymerases, programmable nucleic‑acid writing, and in vitro assay systems for polymerase activity, specificity, and error control. Purpose of the research project(s): To build and execute the experimental pipeline for engineering and characterizing light‑responsive RNA polymerase systems. The position will support molecular cloning, protein production, and cell‑free functional assays needed to generate sponsor‑facing milestones and publications on optogenetic polymerase control, sequence‑programmed RNA synthesis, and related protein‑sensor technologies.

Job Duties and Responsibilities

• Molecular cloning and construct generation – 25% Design and build plasmids for engineered T7 polymerases, optogenetic domains, protein binders, reporters, and assay controls using PCR, Gibson/Golden Gate assembly, mutagenesis, and sequence verification.
• Protein expression, purification, and QC – 20% Express and purify polymerases, binders, and optogenetic protein components (primarily from bacteria) using affinity chromatography/FPLC and standard QC methods such as SDS‑PAGE, concentration assessment, and storage optimization.
• In vitro functional assay development and execution – 25% Develop and run cell‑free transcription and polymerase assays, including time‑course transcription assays, one‑ or few‑base incorporation assays, and assays using modified nucleotides such as fluorescently labeled or biotinylated bases.
• Optogenetic characterization and readout integration – 15% Perform light‑control experiments, fluorescence/plate‑reader assays, and other optical measurements needed to evaluate gating behavior, kinetics, and retained function of engineered constructs.
• Sequencing sample preparation and data/QC handoff – 10% Prepare samples for sequencing‑based readouts, organize construct/sample metadata, and maintain clean experimental records that support downstream analysis and sponsor reporting.
• Project support, documentation, and collaboration – 5% Maintain SOPs, reagent inventories, and experimental documentation; prepare figures/tables for meetings and reports; and coordinate day‑to‑day bench workflows with the PI, trainees, and collaborating groups.

Visa Eligibility

This position is eligible for H-1B sponsorship.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor's Degree in Biochemistry, molecular biology, bioengineering, chem biol, or related field and one year of relevant experience laboratory research. Equivalent education and/or experience may substitute for minimum qualifications except when there are legal requirements, such as a license, certification, and/or registration.

Additional Requirements

• Molecular cloning: PCR, Gibson/Golden Gate assembly, mutagenesis, bacterial transformation, plasmid preparation, and sequence verification.
• Protein production: bacterial expression, affinity purification, chromatography/FPLC workflows, and protein QC.
• Biochemical assays: experience with enzyme assays, transcription assays, fluorescence‑based readouts, or related in vitro functional measurements.
• Experience with cell‑free transcription or nucleic‑acid enzyme assays.
• Experience using modified nucleotides (e.g., fluorescent, biotinylated, or otherwise chemically functionalized substrates).
• Experience with optogenetic proteins, light‑controlled assays, or photochemistry/fluorescence instrumentation.
• Sequencing library preparation or sample‑prep familiarity for assay readouts.
• Experience with protein binders, display/selections, or protein‑sensor engineering.
• Basic computational comfort for organizing data, plotting results, and working with standard lab analysis tools.
• Data quality and documentation: careful experimental record‑keeping, sample tracking, and SOP development.
• Communication and teamwork: ability to summarize results clearly and work closely with the PI and collaborators.
• Research assistantships/internships acceptable, strong hands‑on.

Compensation, Benefits and Position Details

Pay Range Minimum: $56,448.00 annual

Pay Range Maximum: $58,008.00 annual

• Benefits: For information about benefits for this position, visit https://www.washington.edu/jobs/benefits-for-uw-staff/

Shift: First Shift (United States of America)

Temporary or Regular? This is a regular position

FTE (Full‑Time Equivalent): 100.00%

Union/Bargaining Unit: UAW

Research About the UW

Working at the University of Washington provides a unique opportunity to change lives – on our campuses, in our state and around the world. UW employees bring their boundless energy, creative problem‑solving skills and dedication to building stronger minds and a healthier world. In return, they enjoy outstanding benefits, opportunities for professional growth and the chance to work in an environment known for its diversity, intellectual excitement, artistic pursuits and natural beauty.

Our Commitment

The University of Washington is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful and welcoming community for all.

As an equal opportunity employer, the University considers applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, citizenship, sex, pregnancy, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, disability, or veteran status consistent with UW Executive Order No. 81.

To request disability accommodation in the application process, contact the Disability Services Office at 206-543-6450 or [e-mail].

Applicants considered for this position will be required to disclose if they are the subject of any substantiated findings or current investigations related to sexual misconduct at their current employment and past employment. Disclosure is required under Washington state law.

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