RESEARCH SCIENTIST/ENGINEER 1 (PROJECT/TEMPORARY)

$46,644 - $72,000/Yr

University of Washington - Bothell, WA

Full-time - Entry Level

Bothell, WA

Educational Services

About the position

The University of Washington (UW) is seeking a Temporary Research Scientist/Engineer 1 to join the Department of Laboratory Medicine & Pathology. This position is an exciting opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking research under the supervision of Dr. Alex Greninger. The successful candidate will engage in various scientific research activities focused on viral replication, viral-host protein interactions, drug efficacy, viral evolution, and viral genome sequencing. The role requires performing technical procedures and experiments according to established protocols, as well as assisting in the development of new techniques and assays. In this role, the Research Scientist/Engineer 1 will be responsible for conducting experiments, interpreting results, and troubleshooting any issues that arise during research protocols. The candidate will also participate in writing reports on assay development and contribute to presentations during lab meetings. The position involves operating and maintaining laboratory instruments, including PCR thermocyclers, qPCR instruments, and droplet generators, while ensuring detailed lab records are maintained. Additionally, the candidate will conduct literature reviews to support research methods and project planning. The position is structured to provide a comprehensive experience in a collaborative research environment, where the candidate will work closely with senior lab members and contribute to the overall goals of the laboratory. This role is ideal for individuals looking to advance their careers in scientific research within a dynamic and supportive setting.

Responsibilities

• Perform experiments according to documented protocols under general supervision.
• Conduct scientific investigative procedures, including clinical validation of techniques and interpretation of results.
• Assist in troubleshooting problems in research protocols and report issues to the Research Senior Scientist.
• Help develop techniques such as multiplex PCR, next-generation sequencing library preparation, and novel digital PCR tests.
• Participate in writing reports about new assay development and data collection.
• Present findings to peers and supervisors at lab meetings.
• Operate and maintain laboratory instruments used in experiments, including PCR thermocyclers and qPCR instruments.
• Maintain detailed lab records and conduct literature reviews to assist in research planning.
• Update specimen inventory and manage reagents and supplies.
• Perform general lab cleaning and maintenance duties.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Biology, Microbiology, or a related field.
• One year of relevant experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Knowledge of PCR, primers and probe design, and PCR product detection.
• Experience with next-generation sequencing and DNA sequencing analysis.

Nice-to-haves

• Molecular biology background.
• Experience with PCR sequencing.
• Computer programming skills for analyzing sequencing data.

Benefits

• Generous benefits and work/life programs as a UW employee.
• Professional growth opportunities.
• Access to unique resources in a diverse and intellectually stimulating environment.