Job Description

TECHNICAL ASSOCIATE 1, Chemical Engineering (ChemE), to join the Sikes Lab on an industrially-sponsored project on the topic of pathogen detection. Tests that are accurate, can be conducted outside of laboratories, and are more affordable and robust than current products on the market represent a pressing need worldwide and are in great demand in industries ranging from medical diagnostic testing to food and water security. The Sikes Lab takes an engineering design approach to technology development for these applications, with a joint focus on deep fundamental understanding to guide development as well as practical needs to achieve commercialization at scale.  Responsibilities include creating new genetic constructs and characterization of the engineered proteins they encode, with the goal of inventing medical diagnostics for detecting human pathogens, including those that have acquired antimicrobial resistance (AMR); performing research involving cloning (creation of plasmids), protein engineering via rational and evolutionary techniques (library screening), protein expression, and biochemical assays, working from established protocols; record-keeping; and contributing--as a co-author--to peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations.  The lab is committed to providing mentorship and supporting professional development. 

Job Requirements
 REQUIRED:  bachelor’s degree in chemical or biological engineering, biology, or related technical discipline; two years of experience in a research wet-lab setting, which may include undergraduate research experience; experience with biochemistry and molecular biology, including cloning, protein chemistry, and microbial cell culture; ability to work independently and as part of a team and to respond to the dynamic needs of industrial collaborators; self-motivation; attention to detail; and excellent organizational and communication skills, including the ability to carefully document and maintain work in detailed written records.  Job #19802