Research Associate II- Protein Production

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

The Cancer Research Technology Program (CRTP) develops and implements emerging technology, cancer biology expertise and research capabilities to accomplish NCI research objectives. The CRTP is an outward-facing, multi-disciplinary hub purposed to enable the external cancer research community. A major focus of the CRTP is the NCI RAS Initiative with the goal to discover new therapeutic interventions against RAS-driven cancers. In addition, the CRTP hosts the Nanotechnology Characterization Laboratory (NCL) which performs and standardizes preclinical efficacy and toxicity testing of nanoparticles intended for cancer therapeutics and diagnostics, and the Antibody Characterization Lab (ACL) which characterizes monoclonal antibodies or other renewable affinity binding reagents for use in cancer related research. CRTP scientists also work collaboratively with intramural NCI investigators to provide research technologies and expertise.

KEY ROLES/RESPONSIBILITIES

The ProteinExpression Laboratory (PEL) is providing support to the National Center for Advancing Translational Science (NCATS) for their Antiviral Program for Pandemics(APP). This program is designed toprepare for future pandemics by developing assays and screening for chemicalcompounds to target numerous viral proteins which could play a role in futureoutbreaks. PEL will support APPoperations through the generation and qualification of protein reagents fordrug screening projects. The PEL creates expression constructs, expresses theencoded recombinant proteins in multiple expression systems, and purifies therecombinant proteins for use in downstream applications. The Protein Production Associate will:

• Carry out experiments, under the review of a scientist, in the area of protein expression and purification
• Perform microscale protein purification scouting
• Perform large-scale protein purification using FPLC technology
• Carry out extensive quality control on proteins to ensure high-quality reagent production
• Maintain scientific equipment in good working order
• Interact with downstream NCATS assay development scientists for transfer of materials and information
• Provide timely updates of project progress to supervisor and other staff in both informal and formal reports
• Maintain detailed records of all laboratory processes and procedures for quality assurance purposes

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS

To be considered for this position, you must minimally meet the knowledge, skills, and abilities listed below:

• Possession of a Bachelor's degree in Biochemistry, Chemistry, Biology, or a related field from an accredited college or university according to the Council for Higher Education Accreditation. Foreign degrees must be evaluated for U.S. equivalency
• In additional to education requirements, a minimum of five (5) years of related biomedical experience is required
• Applicants must have prior laboratory experience in protein purification
• Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Candidates with these desired skills will be given preferential consideration:

• Ability to handle multiple scientific projects with a high degree of accuracy
• Experience in microscale protein purification
• Experience with affinity-based methods of recombinant protein purification, specifically IMAC
• Experience with standard chromatographic modalities of IEX and SEC in the context of FPLC-based column chromatography

JOB HAZARDS

• This position is subject to working with or have potential for exposure to infectious material, requiring medical clearance and immunizations