Job Description

Life Science Research Professional 2 at Stanford University summary:

The Life Science Research Professional 2 at Stanford University conducts advanced genetic research using CRISPR/Cas9 libraries to study cancer, neurodegeneration, and infectious diseases. Responsibilities include cell culture, molecular biology techniques, flow cytometry, microscopy, data analysis, and lab management tasks. The role requires collaboration, protocol development, literature review, and contributes to scientific publications and presentations.

The Bassik Lab at Stanford University ( is seeking a Life Science Research Professional 2 to be an integral member of a research team that is developing novel genetic tools, including ultracomplex CRISPR/Cas9 libraries, to conduct genetic screens in a range of medically relevant areas, such as cancer, neurodegeneration and infectious disease. The goal of this work is to understand (1) the biology of cancer development and identify novel therapeutic drug targets, as well as to (2) understand how macrophage cells of the immune system recognize and destroy pathogens ranging from protein aggregates to tumor cells. Candidate must be willing to work in a research team, be organized, enjoy problem solving, and have strong communication skills. This is a fantastic opportunity for a motivated, creative, and reliable person to participate in highly collaborative, cutting-edge research at the forefront of modern biology, with real world applications to develop new therapeutics to improve human health.

Responsibilities include cell culture and maintenance of human cell lines, basic molecular biology (PCR, cloning, running DNA and protein gels), flow cytometry, preparation of samples for deep sequencing, confocal microscopy, basic statistical calculations, and other duties as assigned. The LSRP will be expected to work closely with the PI to develop protocols, interpret and analyze the results of experiments, and suggest modifications to procedures as appropriate. The position includes lab management tasks such as ordering supplies, maintaining lab records, and adhering to safety regulations. The LSRP is expected to keep abreast of scientific literature and contribute new ideas and techniques to the lab, as well as attend lab meetings and journal clubs. There will be ample opportunity and encouragement for independent scientific development, project development, and paper writing for highly motivated candidates.

Duties include:

• Independently conduct a portion of the research project(s). Make recommendations on experimental design and/or research direction to principal investigator.
• Independently conduct complex (lab and/or field) experiments to gather data for a portion of a major research project.
• Interpret and analyze results, often where few guidelines exist, and make modifications to existing procedures and protocols.
• Develop new research protocols where appropriate protocols are not described in the literature or where modification or adaptation of standard procedures and protocols is required.
• Participate in multidisciplinary teams across different faculties or schools.
• Perform ongoing literature review to remain current with new procedures and related research; apply to ongoing research and development of new protocols.
• Contribute substantively to the preparation of papers for publication, especially in the results section, and to publication of findings. Present ongoing work to colleagues and/or academic conferences.
• Oversee supply and equipment budget under supervision of principal investigator or business manager.
• Work with health and safety department to ensure lab complies with regulations and all required trainings.
• Supervise (either formally or informally) staff or students as needed, including oversight and direction on techniques, as well as consultation on project work. Serve as a technical resource for other research staff.
• Oversee the daily activities of the laboratory including lab maintenance; maintain lab stock, manage chemical inventory and safety records, and provide general lab support as needed. May assist with purchasing laboratory equipment.

*- Other duties may also be assigned.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's degree in Biology, Bioengineering, Genetics, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, or related scientific field is desired.
• Proficiency with basic molecular biology techniques, such as gel electrophoresis, PCR, and recombinant DNA techniques
• Experience with mammalian tissue culture techniques
• Meticulous record keeping and organizational skills
• Experience with high throughput sequencing methods and sample preparation, fluorescence microscopy, flow cytometry, lentivirus handling, and computer programming.
• Experience with single-cell sequencing

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE (REQUIRED): Bachelor's degree in related scientific field and two years of relevant work experience; or Master’s degree in a related scientific field.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (REQUIRED):

• Comprehensive understanding of scientific principles.
• General computer skills and ability to quickly learn and master computer programs, databases, and scientific applications.
• Strong analytical skills and excellent judgment.
• Ability to maintain detailed records of experiments and outcomes.
• Ability to work under deadlines with general guidance is essential.
• Excellent organizational skills and demonstrated ability to accurately complete detailed work.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS*:

• Frequently stand, walk, twist, bend, stoop, squat, grasp lightly, use fine manipulation, grasp forcefully, perform desk-based computer tasks, use telephone, write by hand, lift, carry, push and pull objects weighing over 40 pounds.
• Occasionally sit, kneel, crawl, reach and work above shoulders, sort and file paperwork or parts.
• Rarely climb, scrub, and mix or operate hand and foot controls.
• Must have correctible vision to perform duties of the job.
• Ability to bend, squat, kneel, stand, reach above shoulder level, and move on hard surfaces for up to eight hours.
• Ability to lift heavy objects weighing up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to work in a dusty, dirty, and odorous environment.
• Position may require repetitive motion.

*- Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodation to any employee with a disability who requires accommodation to perform the essential functions of his or her job.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• May require working in close proximity to blood borne pathogens.
• Position may at times require the employee to work with or be in areas where hazardous materials and/or infectious diseases are present.
• Employee must perform tasks that require the use of personal protective equipment, such as safety glasses and shoes, protective clothing and gloves, and possibly a respirator.
• May require extended or unusual work hours based on research requirements and business needs.

WORK STANDARDS (from JDL):

• Interpersonal Skills: Demonstrates the ability to work well with Stanford colleagues and clients and with external organizations.
• Promote Culture of Safety: Demonstrates commitment to personal responsibility and value for safety; communicates safety concerns; uses and promotes safe behaviors bases on training and lessons learned.
• Subject to and expected to comply with all applicable University policies and procedures, including but not limited to the personnel policies and other policies found in the University’s Administrative Guide,

The expected pay range for this position is $81,130 to $94,895 per annum. Stanford University provides pay ranges representing its good faith estimate of what the university reasonably expects to pay for a position. The pay offered to a selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the qualifications of the selected candidate, departmental budget availability, internal equity, geographic location and external market pay for comparable jobs.

At Stanford University, base pay represents only one aspect of the comprehensive rewards package. The Cardinal at Work website ( provides detailed information on Stanford’s extensive range of benefits and rewards offered to employees. Specifics about the rewards package for this position may be discussed during the hiring process.

The job duties listed are typical examples of work performed by positions in this job classification and are not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, tasks, and responsibilities. Specific duties and responsibilities may vary depending on department or program needs without changing the general nature and scope of the job or level of responsibility. Employees may also perform other duties as assigned.
Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process should contact Stanford University Human Resources at stanfordelr@stanford.edu. For all other inquiries, please submit a contact form.

Stanford is an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Keywords:

genetic research, CRISPR, cancer biology, cell culture, molecular biology, flow cytometry, confocal microscopy, data analysis, lab management, scientific publication

Job Tags

Work experience placement, Internship,

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