Research Scientist I - IBB Molecular Evolution Core Laboratory - Synthetic Biochemistry

Overview

Georgia Tech prides itself on its technological resources, collaborations, high-quality student body, and its commitment to building an outstanding and diverse community of learning, discovery, and creation. We strongly encourage applicants whose values align with our institutional values, as outlined in our Strategic Plan. These values include academic excellence, diversity of thought and experience, inquiry and innovation, collaboration and community, and ethical behavior and stewardship. Georgia Tech has policies to promote a healthy work-life balance and is aware that attracting faculty may require meeting the needs of two careers.

Georgia Tech

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About The Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience (IBB) and IBB's Molecular Evolution Core Laboratory at the Georgia Institute of Technology
IBB was founded in 1995, opening the doors of the Petit Biotechnology Building in 1999, and since that time it has served as a catalyst for innovative bioengineering and bioscience research (https://research.gatech.edu/bio). The Molecular Evolution Core Laboratory is housed within IBB (https://research.gatech.edu/bio/research/core-facilities).

Atlanta, GA

The Molecular Evolution Core Laboratory is seeking a highly skilled and enthusiastic synthetic biochemist to join our team. This position is integral to our mission of leading advancements in molecular evolution, genome analysis, and directed evolution research. We are looking for individuals who are passionate about scientific discovery and have a keen interest in harnessing the power of evolutionary biology for groundbreaking applications.

This role will involve operating and troubleshooting the solid-phase synthesis and purification of custom oligonucleotides to support a variety of molecular evolution and genome analysis projects. The successful candidate will optimize synthesis protocols, develop novel nucleic acid modifications, and ensure the quality and integrity of synthesized oligonucleotides through advanced purification and analytical techniques.

As the Molecular Evolution Core expands, this position may also involve solid-phase peptide synthesis, providing an opportunity to expand expertise in peptide chemistry and its applications in evolutionary biology.

Beyond laboratory work, the role will include mentoring undergraduate students, fostering their development in synthetic biochemistry and molecular biology techniques. Additionally, the candidate will collaborate closely with researchers to support directed evolution experiments, contributing to the design and implementation of selection strategies for functional nucleic acids and peptides.

If you are passionate about scientific innovation and ready to embark on a journey of learning and growth, we encourage you to apply for this exciting role in the Molecular Evolution Core Laboratory.

1. Oligonucleotide Synthesis and Process Innovation: Take charge of oligo synthesizers to conduct synthesis, purification, and quality control of oligonucleotides. Employ a range of analytical techniques, such as HPLC, FPLC, polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, and mass spectrometry, while developing new methodologies to optimize protocols and enhance process efficiency.
2. Collaborative Research Support: Act as a crucial collaborator, engaging with various research groups within the laboratory and external stakeholders. Work will span across next-generation sequencing, bacteriophage analysis, and other pioneering projects, with a strong emphasis on applying and advancing molecular evolution principles.
3. Equipment Management and Technical Mastery: Oversee the comprehensive management of laboratory instruments and equipment, ensuring operational excellence and reliability for all research activities. This role will be central to maintaining a high-performance lab environment conducive to innovation and discovery.
4. Adaptive and Forward-Thinking: Exhibit flexibility and a proactive approach to take on a variety of duties as the laboratory's needs evolve. Adaptability will be key to navigating the dynamic landscape of molecular biology research and contributing effectively to the lab's success.
5. Scientific Contribution and Publication: Play an active role in the dissemination of research findings by contributing to manuscripts, grant proposals, and conference presentations. Document experimental methodologies, analyze data, and collaborate with research teams to publish findings in peer-reviewed journals, amplifying the impact of our research and advancing the field.

Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Chemical Biology, or related field.

• Strong background in organic synthesis, including experience with the synthesis of nucleoside phosphoramidites.
• Experience with analytical techniques such as HPLC, NMR, MALDI, and capillary electrophoresis.
• Knowledge of directed evolution methodologies and molecular biology techniques.
• Strong collaborative skills, with the ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary team.
• Proficiency in programming (e.g., Python) for laboratory automation or data analysis.
• Experience with molecular modeling, structural analysis, or bioinformatics tools.
• Experience mentoring or supervising students in a research setting.

Student Success Criteria:

• The ability to teach and mentor a distinct student body.
• The ability to promote a welcoming educational/work environment.
• The ability to mentor and assist students interested in pursuing graduate education.
• The ability to engage students in experiential learning activities and pedagogy that support student success.

Up to $70,000 per year depending on candidate qualifications in alignment with Research Faculty ranks as outlined in section 3.2.1 of the Georgia Tech Faculty Handbook (https://www.policylibrary.gatech.edu/faculty-handbook/3.2.1-research-faculty-hiring-and-promotion-guidelines).

This role is primarily dependent on sponsored research. All employment and assignments are ultimately contingent upon funding.

Applicants should submit a letter of application, curriculum vitae/resume, and the names and contact information for at least three references. Application materials should be submitted as .PDF files via www.careers.gatech.edu. Please name your cover letter "Last Name, First Name - Cover Letter" and your resume "Last Name, First Name - CV".

Requests for information may be directed to Anton Bryksin at Anton.Bryksin@ibb.gatech.edu.

Applications will be considered beginning April 16, 2025, but the search will continue until the positions are filled.

The University System of Georgia is comprised of our 26 institutions of higher education and learning as well as the System Office. Our USG Statement of Core Values are Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Respect. These values serve as the foundation for all that we do as an organization, and each USG community member is responsible for demonstrating and upholding these standards. More details on the USG Statement of Core Values and Code of Conduct are available in USG Board Policy 8.2.18.1.2 and can be found on-line at https://www.usg.edu/policymanual/section8/C224/#p8.2.18_personnel_conduct.

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