Research Scientist/Engineer 2

Job Description

The Department of Genome Sciences has an outstanding opportunity for a Research Scientist Engineer 2 to join the team.

About this Opportunity

Reporting to the Principal Investigator, the Research Scientist/Engineer 2, SeaHub, will perform molecular biology, cell biology, DNA sequencing, and data analysis experiments in the Pinglay lab. The Pinglay lab is focused on developing synthetic biology approaches to understand gene expression control, manipulate genome structure and engineer novel cellular states and is housed at the Seattle Hub for Synthetic Biology. (https://www.pinglay-lab.com/)

Position Complexities

This researcher must be capable of developing and performing established molecular and cellular protocols and capable of performing tissue culture of mammalian cell lines in a Biosafety Level 2 (BSL2) environment, construct next-generation sequencing libraries, and basic data analysis. Strong organizational skills and a strong sense of initiative are also very important. There will be opportunities for publications as well as presentations at scientific meetings.

Dimensions and Impact to the University

This researcher will carry out work critical for the advancement of research projects in the Pinglay lab centered around using a combination of AI models and large-scale DNA synthesis to program desired gene expression patterns in mammalian systems. This researcher will also help further collaborative research projects both within and beyond UW.

Key Responsibilities

• 30%: Develop and perform routine molecular and cellular protocols and biological tasks such as mammalian stem cell tissue culture in BSL2 environment and nucleic acid amplification.
• 30%: Conducting an independent research project and/or furthering an existing research project in the lab with hands-on molecular and cellular biological work and DNA sequencing, including constructing next-generation sequencing libraries
• 30%: Analyzing data and preparing presentation materials (e.g. figures, slides) and assisting with preparing publications and grant proposals. Present research at scientific meetings.
• 10%: Assisting with lab organization, and upkeep.

Required Qualifications

To be considered for this opportunity your
application must demonstrate you meet both the minimum qualifications and additional
qualifications listed below. Equivalent education and/or experience may substitute for
minimum qualifications except when there are legal requirements, such as a license,
certification, and/or registration.

Minimum Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in biology, molecular biology, genetics, or related field and two years of relevant experience, including working in a laboratory/research setting with experience in molecular biology workflows, cloning, and tissue culture processing in BSL2 environment, particularly stem cells.

Equivalent education and/or experience may substitute for minimum qualifications except when there are legal requirements, such as a license, certification, and/or registration.

Applicants who do not meet these qualifications WILL NOT be forwarded to the Hiring Department.

Desired Qualifications

Experience in next generation sequencing library construction (RNAseq or ChIP-seq) with follow-up data analysis

Experience with designing and implementing laboratory automation.

Experience with Python, R, or a similar programming language.

Demonstrated commitment to building an inclusive working and learning environment

Working Conditions

Wet BSL2 lab (70%), dry lab (30%)

Application Requirement

A cover letter is required.

About the team at Seattle Hub for Synthetic Biology (SeaHub):

The SeaHub is a multi-institutional collaborative initiative between the Allen Institute, the Chan-Zuckerberg Initiative, and the University of Washington. The SeaHub is led by Scientific Director Dr. Jay Shendure and will work towards developing technologies for molecular recording in living cells. Beyond this technology mandate, the SeaHub will also serve as an organizing center for the burgeoning synthetic biology community in Seattle. SeaHub has cutting-edge scientific infrastructure including DNA sequencers, tissue culture spaces and laboratory automation.

About Genome Sciences:
The Department of Genome Sciences (GS) is part of the University of Washington School of Medicine (UW SoM) and is comprised of 34 labs addressing leading edge questions in biology and medicine by developing and applying genetic, genomic, and computational approaches taking advantage of genomic information now available for a host of species.  GS is making major contributions in the application of genome science to understand the fundamentals of biology and to improve human health and well-being.

Genome Sciences is a collaborative department supported by very different academic disciplines.  We work with a multitude of Program Investigators (PIs) in departments both on the UW campus as well as worldwide. The department has gone through significant expansion since its beginning in 2001 with annual grant awards of $39M in FY25.  The department has 63 training, teaching, and research faculty.

Compensation, Benefits and Position Details

Pay Range Minimum:

$68,736.00 annual

Pay Range Maximum:

$113,580.00 annual

Other Compensation:

-

Benefits:

For information about benefits for this position, visit https://www.washington.edu/jobs/benefits-for-uw-staff/

Shift:

First Shift (United States of America)

Temporary or Regular?

This is a regular position

FTE (Full-Time Equivalent):

100.00%

Union/Bargaining Unit:

UAW Research

About the UW 

Working at the University of Washington provides a unique opportunity to change lives – on our campuses, in our state and around the world.  

UW employees bring their boundless energy, creative problem-solving skills and dedication to building stronger minds and a healthier world. In return, they enjoy outstanding benefits, opportunities for professional growth and the chance to work in an environment known for its diversity, intellectual excitement, artistic pursuits and natural beauty. 

Our Commitment 

The University of Washington is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful and welcoming community for all. As an equal opportunity employer, the University considers applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, citizenship, sex, pregnancy, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, disability, or veteran status consistent with UW Executive Order No. 81.

To request disability accommodation in the application process, contact the Disability Services Office at 206-543-6450 or [email protected]. 

Applicants considered for this position will be required to disclose if they are the subject of any substantiated findings or current investigations related to sexual misconduct at their current employment and past employment. Disclosure is required under Washington state law.