Research Associate - Microbiology & Immunology (Dudek Lab)
This Research Associate position in Dr. Dudek’s laboratory will conduct research focused on the pathogenesis and immune evasion of HIV-1. Specifically, this position will use gene editing of primary immune cells including T cells, Natural Killer cells, B cells, and hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells followed by ex-vivo differentiation and infection to investigate genes altering replication and immune recognition of infection. This position will require development of new techniques, write up of protocols, execution of experiments, data analysis, and manuscript writing. The candidate will also be required to mentor undergraduate students, summer students, and rotating graduate students. The position will require work in a BSL2+ laboratory.
Position Responsibilities
Perform critical analyses of literature relevant to research undertaken.
Interpret and adapt published protocols to specific experiments.
Develop new hypotheses.
Help mentor students and collaborators.
Perform experimental procedures; record and consolidate data.
Complete work within specified time guidelines; discuss progress and any problems as needed.
Maintain and passage multiple cell lines.
PBMC isolation from whole blood.
Maintain and differentiate primary immune cells.
Produce and purify AAV and HIV-1 from transfected cells.
Use digital droplet PCR to quantify viral stocks, infection rate, and editing efficiency.
Perform molecular biology experiments including cloning, construction of vectors for viral (AAV and HIV-1) production and make mutants using site-directed mutagenesis.
Prepare chemical solutions and media according to established protocols.
Maintain primary cell and cell line stocks and inventory.
Conduct independent research to identify and characterize cellular genes altering HIV-1 infectivity.
Prepare figures and write manuscripts for publication.
Edit grant proposals for principal investigator.
Edit paper submissions for students and other lab personnel.
Coordinate safety program with EHS and lab members. Document safety training.
Reconcile lab procurement card and monthly grant reports. Assure charges are valid and resolve errors.
Assist in maintaining accurate records of laboratory databases (equipment and supplies, reagents, microbial strains and stocks, and animals).
Maintain laboratory supplies and equipment, including the timely ordering, receiving, and proper storage of supplies and equipment.
Assist in maintaining general laboratory functionality.
Assist in developing new protocols.
Maintain a clean work area.
Train lab personnel on protocols.
Provide feedback to new and current employees.
Help mentor students and collaborators.
Oversee undergraduate and graduate students in successful completion of assigned tasks and research.
Percent of Time: 100%
Staff Type: Professional & Scientific
Type of Position: Specified Term. Initial appointment is for one year. Appointment may be extended based on performance and availability of funding.
Pay Grade: 4A - https://hr.uiowa.edu/professional-pay/compensation-plan-structure-a-FY18
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
Education Requirements
- Requires a bachelor’s degree in Microbiology biology, Cell Biology, or Immunology, or a related field.
Prior experience working with pathogenic microorganisms is required.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Excellent organizational skills.
Three or more years of lab experience working in a microbiology, cell biology, immunology, or biochemistry laboratory including:
- Experience with standard virology and viral vector techniques including virus production by transient transfection, ultracentrifugation, and MOI calculation.
- Experience working in a BSL2+ laboratory.
- Experience with primary immune cells.
- Experience with protein purification, SDS-PAGE, and Western analysis.
- Molecular biology experience including PCR, primer design, gene cloning, plasmid and PCR purification, agarose gel electrophoresis, and restriction enzyme analyses.
- Using fluorescence microscopy to check infectivity and editing rates
- Use flow cytometry to characterize immune marker expression during and after infection, and quantify HIV-1 latency
- Gathering, recording, and analyzing of experimental data.
- Data analysis and presentation software, such as Microsoft Excel, Prism, Microsoft Word, and Photoshop.
- Proficiency with each of the following:
- Ability to effectively prioritize projects to consistently meet deadlines.
- Ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment.
- Attention to detail and accuracy.
- Ability to work in a team.
Desired Qualifications
Extensive experience with cell culture.
Prior experience with Immunofluorescence microscopy and flow cytometry
Prior experience with infections pathogens such as HIV-1.
Application Process: In order to be considered, applicants must upload a CV or resume, and cover letter (under submission relevant materials) that clearly address how they meet the listed required and desired qualifications of this position.
Job openings are posted for a minimum of 7 calendar days and may be removed from posting and filled any time after the original 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.
For additional questions, please contact Anne Beyerink at anne-phillips@uiowa.edu.
Equal opportunity employer
The University of Iowa is an equal opportunity 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, 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.
