*Please answer the questions below when you apply to this position*

Our client, Argonne National Laboratory Biosciences Division, needs scientists to interact with their scientific staff to execute experiments and methods in support of programs supported by National funding agencies. You will provide technical support to interact the Lab Biosciences scientific staff.   Specifically, multiple research assistants with specific technical expertise will be requested on an as-needed basis for variable assignments ranging from several months to potentially a year or more as assignments are on an as needed basis, work will be authorized by the Laboratory technical representative.  Research will be conducted with several PCR-based molecular techniques, primarily in a high throughput manner, and is complemented by a strong background in microbiology.  This is a full-time, 40 hours per week position.  Most work will consist of laboratory experimentation.

 Required Skills:

• Seeking a skilled and motivated synthetic biologists focused on advancing genetic engineering for recombinant protein manufacturing.

High-throughput structural biology.  Research Assistants will need good knowledge and skills in microbiology, molecular biology, vector and strain propagation and storage, protein biochemistry and protein crystallization, including the instrumentation and techniques involved in protein purification using liquid chromatography, protein characterization using gel electrophoresis, spectrophotometry and dynamic light scattering, and protein crystallization. 

Projects require the use of instruments, supplies, and reagents that are typical for molecular biology, microbiology, biochemistry, cell biology, and biophysics research groups.  Previous experience operating equipment is desirable, however, training on specific procedures, methods, and instruments used in the laboratory will be provided by the ANL staff scientists.   Research assistants must have experience with operating general equipment typically found in laboratories conducting research in the biological sciences, e.g., plate-based systems and experience with high-throughput liquid handling systems, digital pipettes, thermal cyclers, environmental shakers, shaking water bath, Thermolyne Dri-Bath incubators, bacteriological incubators, microcentrifuges, Beckman high-speed centrifuge and rotors, Beckman floor and benchtop ultracentrifuges and rotors, Eppendorf benchtop low-speed centrifuge, forma ultra-low temperature freezers, -20 C freezers, chromatography refrigerators, savant Speed-Vac, and pH meters. Specialized expertise is often required in the following categories:

• Automated molecular biology equipment such as Beckman Biomek FX liquid handler, microwell plate dispensers and readers.
• Automated protein purification equipment such as the AKTA Explorer or Express.
• Utilization of high-density instrumentation for crystallization setup such as the mosquito HTS system & Data tracking using LIMS

EDUCATIONAL QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE

• MS in Biochemical Engr, Molecular Biology, or related field with relevant industry experience
• Hands-on expertise in recombinant protein expression systems, particularly in E. coli.
• Proficiency in analytical techniques for protein characterization (e.g. SDS-PAGE, HPLC, etc.)
• Experience with genetic engineering methods, mutagenesis, and stain development
• Knowledge in silico modeling tools and high-throughput screening techniques
• Familiarity with scale-up processes and bioreactor operation
• Excellent problem solving and communication skills with the ability to collaborate across disciplines.

If you or anyone you know is interested, qualified and immediately available please answer the below questions and send an updated resume to us for immediate review and consideration. Candidates are required to answer the below questions when applying:

On what date are you able to start this full-time position?
What is your highest level of education? (BS, MS, PhD)
What degree do you have? Biochemical Engr, Molecular Biology, other (specify)
How many years of microbiology experience do you have?
Do you have reliable transportation to Lemont, IL 5-days per week for this position?
What is hour an acceptable rate for you to accept this position?