Staff Scientist

Department
 

BSD BMB - Sotomayor Lab

About the Department
 

The Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology studies how biomolecules function and interact to drive the complex, diverse, and adaptive behaviors of living systems. Our focus is on biological mechanisms described at the atomic level. We are highly collaboratory and often employ multiple approaches to address otherwise intractable questions. We have particular strengths in membrane proteins and RNA biochemistry and are pioneers in all areas of biophysics, structural biology, biochemistry, and protein engineering and design. Please explore our programs further at https://biochem.uchicago.edu. This at-will position is wholly or partially funded by contractual grant funding which is renewed under provisions set by the grantor of the contract. Employment will be contingent upon the continued receipt of these grant funds and satisfactory job performance.

Job Summary
 

The Staff Scientist will perform experimental research into one or more topics related to DNA origami, force spectroscopy, protein engineering as well as molecular mechanisms underlying mechanotransduction and cell-cell adhesion. This position will use simulation methods to model DNA-origami protein devices. In addition, the Staff Scientist will help in daily laboratory activities, contribute to publications, grant proposals writing, managing of laboratory space, and training group members on experimental methods.

Responsibilities

• Design experimental projects.

• Build and characterize DNA origami devices.

• Produce protein for biophysical characterization (AFM, cryo-EM) and functionalization of DNA origami devices.

• Analyze data.

• Prepare presentations, posters, reports.

• Train group members on experimental techniques.

• Help with laboratory tasks, including writing grant applications and managing.

• Serves as a resource for collecting data and performing analysis. Contributes to facilitating and promoting a research project by providing scientific or intellectual information.

• Develops laboratory protocols and training on new techniques. Manage, analyze and make recommendations on complex data sets for research.

• Creates first drafts for scientific writing and publications, including protocols and grants.

• Trains and mentors laboratory personnel.

• Performs other related work as needed.

Minimum Qualifications
 

Education:

Minimum requirements include a PhD in related field.

---
Work Experience:

Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through 5-7 years of work experience in a related job discipline.

---
Certifications:

---

Preferred Qualifications

Experience:

• Experience in development, creation, and characterization (AFM and cryo-EM) of DNA-origami devices.

• Experience in protein expression and characterization.

• Knowledge of DNA modeling software.

​Preferred Competencies

• Excellent communication skills.

Working Conditions

• Lab Environment.

• Weekend/Evening hours: as needed.

Application Documents

• Resume (required)

• Cover Letter (preferred)

When applying, the document(s) MUST be uploaded via the My Experience page, in the section titled Application Documents of the application.

Job Family
 

Research

Role Impact
 

Individual Contributor

FLSA Status
 

Exempt

Pay Frequency
 

Monthly

Scheduled Weekly Hours
 

40

Benefits Eligible
 

Yes

Drug Test Required
 

No

Health Screen Required
 

No

Motor Vehicle Record Inquiry Required
 

No

Posting Statement
 

The University of Chicago is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity/Disabled/Veterans and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, age, status as an individual with a disability, military or veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law. For addit