Job Information
University of Washington RESEARCH SCIENTIST/ENGINEER 2 in Seattle, Washington
Req #: 236035
Department: THE DEPT. OF ANESTHESIOLOGY AND PAIN MEDICINE
Posting Date: 06/27/2024
Closing Info: Open Until Filled
Salary: $4,649 - $4,800 per month
Limited Recruitment: Open to Department employees only
Shift: First Shift
Notes: As a UW employee, you will enjoy generous benefits and work/life programs. For a complete description of our benefits for this position, please visit our website, click here. (https://hr.uw.edu/benefits/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2018/02/benefits-professional-staff-librarians-academic-staff-20230701_a11y.pdf )
As a UW employee, you have a unique opportunity to change lives on our campuses, in our state and around the world. UW employees offer their boundless energy, creative problem-solving skills, and dedication to build stronger minds and a healthier world.
UW faculty and staff also enjoy outstanding benefits, professional growth opportunities and unique resources in an environment noted for diversity, intellectual excitement, artistic pursuits, and natural beauty.
The main purpose of this position is to perform analysis of clinical or other biological samples to measure metabolism. The RS will use mass spectrometry and assist with research in the metabolomics field within the Raftery group and its outside collaborators, as well as perform standard procedures and tasks related to the workflow of the Northwest Metabolomics Research Center (NW-MRC). Reporting to Dr. Raftery and working under the direct supervision of Dr. Danijel Djukovic or Dr. Nagana Gowda in his lab, the Research Scientist will be responsible for sample preparation and data acquisition using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) as well as data processing on a range of metabolomics projects. The RS will be responsible for quality control and will contribute to the expansion of metabolomics methods in the lab. The RS will also be able to supervise one or more Lab Technicians on these instruments and collaborate with other lab members to achieve project goals.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES Research Activities (85%) The Research Scientist 2 will assist with metabolomics experiments involving the use of mass spectrometry, working under limited supervision to perform the following duties involved in sample preparation, LC-MS, and GC-MS data acquisition, and data analysis:
Prepare serum, plasma, cell, and tissue samples for either LC-MS or GC-MS analysis according to standard operating procedures.
Operate the GC-MS system and perform basic troubleshooting, cleaning, and maintenance.
Operate the LC-MS instrument and process the data, including peak integration.
Perform quality control on the generated data and help take action when performance is poor.
Participate in research method development by preparing samples and standards, optimizing MS instrument parameters and conditions, modifying and improving procedures, and general problem-solving.
Participate in the design and execution of new approaches for metabolomics sample analysis.
Perform calculations to prepare solutions, calibration curves, and internal standards with accurate concentrations.
Determine total protein concentration using bicinchoninic acid assay (BCA assay).
Organize data, metabolites, and pathway groupings, and make calculations in Excel.
Assist with presenting research results in oral or publishable form. Supervision of operation of instruments and Lab Administration – (15%)
Supervise one or more Lab Techs in sample preparation and operation of the LC-MS or GC-MS instruments.
Keep thorough laboratory records, maintain inventory, and stock of laboratory supplies. MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
Bachelor’s Degree in Biochemistry, Microbiology, or related field
Two years of relevant experience OR Equivalent combination of education/experience. ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
Specific knowledge, skills, and abilities required to perform the job satisfactorily include:
Knowledge and experience with laboratory practices and safety procedures
Ability to work under limited supervision
Ability to supervise one or more lesser experienced lab members, such as Lab Techs
Strong ability to problem solve and attention to detail
Ability to communicate effectively both written and verbally
Demonstrated ability to use Microsoft suite of products, particularly, Word, Excel, and Outlook;
Some experience with data analysis
Professional presentation of materials, self, and department in all matters
If no experience or if not proficient, the individual is expected to attain technical skill quickly using liquid and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry.
Ability to work and collaborate with other lab members to achieve laboratory research goals.
Ability to work as a member of a research team with a variety of personnel, including research collaborators, administrative staff, and outside entities DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS
Experience with chemistry-related research techniques
Prior experience working with liquid and/or gas chromatography-mass spectrometry and biochemical reactants
University of Washington is an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to, among other things, race, religion, color, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, sex, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information.