Job Title

Job Description OVERVIEW: The UW Department of Microbiology has an excellent opportunity for Research Scientist/Engineer 3 position within Dr. Parseku2019s Lab. Research in the Parsek Lab involves the study of bacterial communities. This research focuses on two aspects that are closely related. The first are the mechanisms by which the two intracellular secondary messengers, c-di-GMP and cAMP, control surface behavior in Pseudomonas aeruginosa. These surface behaviors are crucial for understanding how this species forms biofilm communities. We seek to understand how the host environment controls the signaling pathways of these secondary messengers and to determine whether the innate immune response influences signaling responses. RESPONSIBILITIES: This position is identified to support Dr. Parsek's laboratory at the Department of Microbiology. The Research Scientist/Engineer-3 (RSE3) will function as the Laboratory Manager. They will perform research that is focused on understanding secondary signaling pathways in p. aeruginosa. This RSE3 position is research-focused and the expectation is that the candidate will drive the development of new techniques and knowledge to answer problems at the forefront of the field. _Research Project Management and Leadership 20%_ + Engage with PI and scientific collaborators, review grant funding Specific Aims, to research, contribute to, and refine project goals. Plan and execute multiphase projects. Plan and prepare manuscripts alongside PI. + Review and analyze data collected by delegated staff. Present data to project team groups and establish conclusions and/or next steps in address of project goals. + Ensure agreed-upon project timelines and milestones are achieved. When changes or delays to project timelines manifest, update the affected teams/personnel and collaborating groups and propose resolutions. + Analysis of microscopic data: image analysis of signaling responses in the host environment and the influence of the innate immune system. + Determining the logistics of running the project: reagents and supplies, instrumentation etc. + Analysis of scientific data preparation of reports, Lab Record keeping. + Communicate effectively with collaborators on the scope, execution, and reporting of projects. _Lab Scientist 70%_ + Conduct work in BSL1-2+ as needed Molecular biology, tissue culture, sample processing + Routine cloning and plasmid preps in e coli and P. aeruginosa, construction of relevant reporter constructs to evaluate expression patterns in different pathogenically relevant environments. + Western blot, gel electrophoresis, protein purification, DNA/RNA isolation, PCR/RT-PCR/RT-qPCR, and general bacterial genetics techniques. + The use of microfluidic devices to analyze gene expression in in vitro grown biofilm communities. + Identifying components of innate immunity and how they influence secondary messenger signaling. Culturing bacteria, preparing freezer stocks, testing antibiotic resistance, etc. + Molecular biology tasks: DNA isolation, conventional PCR and qPCR, sequencing, molecular cloning and genetic engineering techniques, DNA fingerprinting, MLST typing etc. + Whole genome sequencing using Illumina MiSeq or similar platform. + Participating in parallel work on other projects currently carried out in the lab. _Oversight and training of junior lab personnel (10%)_ + Overseeing and training personnel working on the same project. + Other duties as assigned. MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS: + Bacheloru2019s degree in Microbiology or Immunology or a related field and four years of relevant experience working in a BSL1-2+ lab environment. OR + 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 REQUIREMENT: + This job requires detailed knowledge of basic molecular biology applied to bacterial pathogens. + A publication history demonstrating success in developing or implementing these techniques is required for this job. + Experience or exposure to secondary messenger signaling in pathogenic bacteria. + Experience with next-generation sequencing such as Illumina MiSeq or similar platform. PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS + Masters or PhD in Microbiology or Immunology is highly desirable for this position. + Technical proficiency in performing and analyzing the results from standard molecular and biochemical techniques (immunoprecipitations, protein purification, cloning, next generation library preparation, etc.) is required for this job. + PhD in Microbiology or related field (e.g., Immunology) is highly preferred for this position. Desirable, but not required skills are a knowledge of innate immune systems from diverse organisms, capacity to perform microscopic analyses of host-pathogen interactions. + Some experience with studying host-pathogen interactions at the level of the innate immune response is desired. Compensation, Benefits and Position Details Pay Range Minimum: $80,244.00 annual Pay Range Maximum: $80,244.00 annual Other Compensation: - Benefits: For information about benefits for this position, visit 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 u2013 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 . 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 (.University of Washington is an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to, among other things, race, religion, color, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, sex, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information.