Research Scientist/Engr 4

University of Washington Medical Center; Seattle (WA); On-site; USD 99,000 - 122,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Washington Medical Center is seeking a research-focused scientist to advance vaccine design through cryo-EM, X-ray crystallography and immunogen engineering. You will work on viral glycoproteins, develop protein subunit and mRNA vaccine constructs, and collaborate across a network of colleagues.

Responsibilities include designing experiments, performing structural studies, leading project tasks, and guiding students and staff.

Qualifications

• Master’s Degree in Biochemistry or related field with at least four years of relevant experience
• Experience in cryo-electron microscopy, virology assays, and protein expression/purification in mammalian cells
• Equivalent education and/or experience may substitute for minimum qualifications
• Expertise in protein and vaccine design; high-throughput automation experience preferred (Beckman Biomek)

Responsibilities

• 20% Structure-based and machine-learning immunogen design for protein subunit and mRNA vaccines.
• 20% Characterize protein antigenicity via binding assays (ELISAs, SPR, Biolayer Interferometry).
• 15% Perform structural studies (cryo-EM and X-ray crystallography).
• 10% Design and execution of virology assays.
• 10% Data analysis to guide research strategy.
• 10% Lead projects and major tasks.
• 10% Interact with collaborators and write manuscripts.
• 5% Provide guidance to staff, students and postdocs

Skills

Protein design

Vaccine design

High-throughput automation

Education

Master’s degree in Biochemistry or related field

Tools

Beckman Biomek

Job description

Job Description

Field of research:

Single particle cryo-electron microscopy and X-ray crystallization of viral glycoproteins, immunogen design, virology, biochemistry and biophysics.

Purpose of the Research Project(s):

The goal of our research is to develop vaccines and therapeutics targeting human pathogens.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• 20% Structure-based and machine-learning immunogen design for protein subunit and mRNA vaccines based on viral surface glycoproteins (construct design, recombinant expression in mammalian cells, purification, and stability assays),
• 20% Characterize protein antigenicity (binding assays using ELISAs, SPR and biolayer interferometry to evaluate binding kinetics and affinity of antibodies or designed proteins),
• 15% Perform structural studies (high-throughput cryo-electron microscopy of subunit vaccines as well as of complexes between viral glycoproteins and monoclonal and polyclonal antibodies as well as X-ray crystallography),
• 10% Design and execution of virology assays,
• 10% Analysis of the data to help determining the research strategy,
• 10% Lead projects and/or major project tasks,
• 10% Interactions with collaborators within our network and writing of manuscripts for publication
• 5% Provide guidance and direction to project staff, students and postdocs

Requirements:

Master’s Degree in Biochemistry or related field and four years 4 years of experience in related field like: Cryo-electron microscopy, virology assays (pseudotyped virus generation, cellular entry and neutralization assays), protein expression in mammalian cells and purification

Equivalent education and/or experience may substitute for minimum qualifications except when there are legal requirements, such as a license, certification, and/or registration.

Desire:

Expertise in protein and vaccine design, experience in high throughput automation using Beckman Biomek.

Compensation, Benefits and Position Details

Pay Range Minimum:

$99,444.00 annual

Pay Range Maximum:

$122,124.00 annual

Other Compensation:

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.