2025 MMG Junior Specialist - Charles-Orszag lab

Research (90%)

The Junior Specialist will participate in publishable research focusing on the mechanisms of chromosome segregation. The research will use thermophilic archaeal cell cultures, genetic manipulations, as well as molecular biology and live-cell fluorescence microscopy. The successful candidate will create DNA constructs, introduce DNA constructs into thermophilic archaea as well as bacteria, and analyze cells and protein expression using a range of techniques. The successful candidate will also analyze data and carry out biochemical and molecular assays. The position will also involve general laboratory maintenance such as ordering supplies, helping to maintain safety records, cleaning of glassware, putting away glassware and supplies, and maintaining frozen stocks of cells and plasmids.

The Junior Specialist will perform experiments under the supervision of a postdoctoral researcher and the PI. The successful candidate will be expected to stay up to date on the field by reading background literature, including that suggested by supervisors. The candidate will be expected to understand the hypotheses and rationale for experiments, and to discuss the design of experiments with the PI and postdoctoral mentors.

The Junior Specialist is expected to work semi-independently, planning and completing experiments with guidance and oversight from mentors. The candidate will keep a detailed electronic notebook including all experimental procedures and data. The candidate will participate and present in group meetings. The candidate will also contribute to the writing and editing of manuscripts.

Service (10%)

The junior specialist will be expected to help train and mentor undergraduates, graduate students, and other lab members. Undergraduate students will typically help with basic tasks and complete small, related research sub-projects.

Department: https://mmg.ucdavis.edu

Bachelor's degree in Biological Sciences or a closely related field (or expected to obtain such a degree by start date). Previous experience in a biology research lab is required and must include molecular biology skills such as PCR and DNA extraction.

Prior laboratory experience in microbiology and fluorescence microscopy. The ideal candidate will also have strong interpersonal, communication, and decision-making skills, as well as the ability to work well independently and as part of a team.

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• "Misconduct" means any violation of the policies or laws governing conduct at the applicant's previous place of employment, including, but not limited to, violations of policies or laws prohibiting sexual harassment, sexual assault, or other forms of harassment, discrimination, dishonesty, or unethical conduct, as defined by the employer.
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