Research Technician II

The Stowers Institute for Medical Research; Kansas City (MO); On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Mentorship and career growth

Publication opportunities

Advanced skill development

Job summary

The Stowers Institute for Medical Research is seeking a dedicated scientist to join the Halfmann Lab in Kansas City. The successful candidate will conduct hands-on research on protein self-assembly, applying techniques in molecular biology and biochemistry. This position offers opportunities for mentorship and skill development within a collaborative team environment.

Candidates should have a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field and prior lab experience. The role involves conducting experiments, maintaining detailed records, and contributing to the lab's research goals. We welcome applicants with a strong work ethic and a passion for scientific research.

Qualifications

• Prior experience in a molecular biology or biochemistry lab.
• Proficiency in molecular cloning, PCR, and mammalian cell culture is preferred.
• Self-motivation and excellent communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Conduct on-site research on protein self-assembly using various approaches.
• Perform DNA transformation, cell culture, and immunodetection.
• Maintain detailed experimental records and analyze data.

Skills

Molecular biology techniques

Cell culture

Protein biochemistry

Flow cytometry

Software for data analysis (FCS Express, Prism)

Education

Bachelor’s degree in biology, biochemistry, cell biology, or related field

Job description

The lab studies the mechanisms and consequences of prion-like protein aggregation in cells. This research has broad implications for aging, cancer, and neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s. The chosen candidate will contribute to the lab’s goals by conducting on-site research on protein self-assembly using genetic, biochemical, and cytological approaches. We are looking for a dedicated scientist who brings a highly positive attitude and an exceptional work ethic to our collaborative team environment.

Responsibilities

• Molecular biology: DNA transformation and extraction from bacteria and yeast, PCR, gel electrophoresis
• Cell culture: Passaging and transfection of human primary and immortalized cell lines
• Protein biochemistry: fractionation and immunodetection
• Flow cytometry and cell sorting of yeast and human cell culture
• Maintain detailed experimental records and utilize software (FCS Express, Prism, Google Docs) to analyze and record data
• Independent execution of bench-level experiments and small independent research projects
• Identification of methodological problems and helping to identify and implement modifications in research protocols
• Documentation of and assistance in interpreting experimental data; reporting data in oral and written reports to supervisor and other lab members
• Referencing scientific literature as needed

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, biochemistry, cell biology, biophysics, or a related field
• Prior experience in a molecular biology or biochemistry lab
• Proficient in principles of molecular biology and basic lab techniques (experience with molecular cloning, PCR, plasmid preparation, and mammalian cell culture strongly preferred)
• Self-motivation, excellent writing, communication and organizational skills, and the ability to work closely with other team members
• Attention to detail, tenacity, and resourcefulness in problem-solving

What the Halfmann Lab offers

• Mentorship and Career Growth: Direct training and guidance from the Principal Investigator and senior lab members, making this an ideal stepping stone for graduate or medical school
• Publication Opportunities: A stimulating environment to make meaningful intellectual and technical contributions that can lead to co-authorship on scientific publications
• Advanced Skill Development: Hands-on experience with cutting-edge techniques and equipment for cell biology and protein biophysics within the world-class, highly supported research environment of the Stowers Institute