Research Assistant - Microbiology and Immunology (Dudek Lab)

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Scientist/Engineer/Professional
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25003187 Requisition #

The laboratory of Dr. Amanda Dudek in the Department of Microbiology and Immunology at the University of Iowa is seeking an experienced and highly motivated Research Assistant to join her team. The Dudek lab uses gene editing to probe the host cell-virus interface to understand early stages of viral replication of HIV-1 and Adeno-associated virus vectors. We aim to use basic mechanistic biology to question 1) how do AAV vectors target and enter various cell types and 2) how does the cell react to AAV vector transduction? We use gene editing of immortalized cell lines as well as hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs) to investigate capsid specific differences in entry pathway usage, as well as mechanisms of cellular toxicity occurring in sensitive primary cell types such as HSPCs. It is our goal to improve the efficacy of viral vectors first by identifying areas of inefficiency and toxicity that are currently limiting broader implementation of AAV-based therapies in the field.

 
Duties to include: 
  • Research reagent ordering and lab organization.
  • Plasmid preparation and sequencing.
  • Molecular cloning (restriction enzyme, Gibson, Topo-TA cloning).
  • Culture of immortalized cell lines including 293T, HeLa, A549, Huh7, HepG2.
  • Viral vector production (transient transfection, cell harvest, size exclusion-based vector purification)
  • Viral vector titration (by droplet digital PCR).
  • Generation of knockout and knockin clonal cell lines
  • Ensure the laboratory remains functional and organized, and that research integrity is maintained
  • Be involved in the preparation and dissemination of scientific manuscripts and presentations.
  • Aid the group in preparing and adhering to institutional safety and research regulations, including EHS, IACUC, IBC, and IRB protocols.
  • Manage the ordering and maintenance of laboratory supplies and equipment.
  • Complete work within specified time guidelines.
  • Regularly discuss progress and any problems encountered.
  • Present research progress at laboratory meetings.
  • Maintain a clean work area.
  
Our mission is to inspire and educate world class health care providers and scientists for the people of Iowa and our global community. Researchers in the College's over 280 laboratories are served by state-of-the-art core research facilities and research support facilities. Much of the research conducted is interdisciplinary and collaborations are fostered and coordinated through major research centers, institutes and programs. Many faculty members are internationally renowned for their research. Two faculty members are Howard Hughes Institute Investigators, 12 are members of the Institute of Medicine and two are members of the National Academy of Sciences. 
  
Percent of Time: 100% 
Type of Position: Specified Term. Initial appointment is for one year. Appointment may be extended based on performance and availability of funding.
  
Benefits Highlights: 
  • Regular salaried position located in Iowa City, Iowa 
  • Fringe benefit package including paid vacation; sick leave; health, dental, life and disability insurance options; and generous employer contributions into retirement plans 
  • For more information about Why Iowa?, click here 
Required Qualifications:
  •  Bachelor’s degree in a bio or biomedical sciences with an interest in gene therapy and gene editing
  • Minimum of 6 months total experience in laboratory research
  • Minimally familiar with, but ideally experience with molecular biology techniques such as PCR, restriction digest, DNA ligation, bacterial transformation
  • Excellent organizational skills
  • Excellent aseptic technique
  • Willingness to help with a variety of techniques and be adaptable to the current need
  • Experience with mammalian cell culture preferred
  • Gathering, recording, and analyzing experimental data
  • Ability to effectively prioritize projects and consistently meet deadlines
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Desirable Qualifications
  • Background in molecular techniques (e.g., PCR, protein purification, western blot)
  • Previous work with animal models of infectious diseases
  • Previous work growing bacterial cultures
  • Experience using immunological techniques (e.g., flow cytometry and immunofluorescence microscopy)
  • Some background using primary or immortalized animal or human tissues or cell lines
  • Experience as a laboratory technician or manager
  

Application Process: Please attach an updated resume/CV as part of the application process. Job openings are posted for a minimum of 14 calendar days. This job may be removed from posting and filled any time after the minimum posting period has ended. Successful candidates will be required to self-disclose any conviction history and will be subject to a criminal background check. This position is not eligible for University sponsorship for employment authorization

to learn more about this position and apply please contact anne-beyerink@uiowa.edu

Equal opportunity/affirmative action employer


The University of Iowa is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment free from discrimination on the basis of race, creed, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, pregnancy (including childbirth and related conditions), disability, genetic information, status as a U.S. veteran, service in the U.S. military, sexual orientation, gender identity, or associational preferences.


Persons with disabilities who need assistance or accommodations with the application or interview process may contact University Human Resources/Faculty and Staff Disability Services, (319) 335-2660 or fsds@uiowa.edu.  For jobs in UI Health care, please contact UI Health care Leave & Disability Administration at 319-356-7543.

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