Research Associate - Conklin Lab

The Conklin Lab is looking for a Research Associate I or II. The applicant will support laboratory research projects on human therapeutic gene editing in close collaboration with the Innovative Genomics Institute. The goals of the projects are to explore CRISPR based gene editing strategies in neurons as well as the development of in vitro models of neurodegenerative disease using iPSC derived neuronal cells. Strong communication skills, with a background in molecular biology and cell culture preferred. Applicants intending on progressing to medical or graduate school are encouraged to apply.

Please submit a resume/CV and Statement of Interest.

About the Lab:

In The Conklin lab we focus on allele-specific gene editing as a therapeutic strategy for human disease. We focus ongene mutations that are highly penetrant, with clear phenotypes in cell types that can be readily derived from iPSCs. The diseased cell types allow us to decode the cellular signatures of disease and determine if editing the disease allele restores cellular functioning. Genome editing is a rapidly advancing field that uses state-of-the-art techniques that pushes the boundaries of cell and molecular biology. We use advanced microscopy, tissue engineering and single cell genomics to optimize precise editing. We are developing computational methods to select optimal CRISPR/Cas9 combinations in diverse populations. We aim to produce therapies that are safe and cost effective so that they can benefit the maximal number of people. In collaboration with clinical scientists and the Innovative Genomics Institute we are preparing large animal models and clinical grade reagents to prepare for human clinical trials.

Duties and Responsibilities:

The candidate will be directly supervised by a Senior Scientist or Postdoctoral Fellow and have regular meetings with the PI, Dr. Bruce Conklin.

The Main responsibilities will include but are not limited to:

• Human pluripotent stem cell culture, including transfection, subcloning, and differentiation into neurons

• Molecular biology assays including nucleic acid extraction, genotyping of human samples by PCR and ddPCR, and sequencing

• Molecular cloning for generating new plasmid constructs, ligation, transformation, and plasmid purification

• Production of lentivirus and viral like particles

• Maintaining stocks, reagents, and laboratory equipment

• Communication of original findings in the form of lab meeting presentations

Required Qualifications:

• BA/BS in molecular biology, cellular biology or a related science and one or more years of recent, directly related work experience, utilizing the techniques or methods required by the position; and/or equivalent experience/training.

• Knowledge and experience with molecular biology techniques (PCR, molecular cloning, sequencing)

• Knowledge of scientific equipment (centrifuge, pipettes, thermocyclers, etc.) and basic lab etiquette.

• Strong communication skills with history of presenting a scientific group meetings

• Attention to detail and meticulous record keeping abilities.

• Flexibility in schedule- ability to work evenings and weekends when necessary

• Familiarity or interest in human genetics/genetic disease and/or CRISPR/Cas gene editing.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Human or mammalian cell culture experience

• Willingness to work with animals or animal tissue

• Experience with CRISPR/Cas gene editing

• Experience with microscopy, especially epifluorescence microscopy

Hiring Range:

Hiring range:

$52K-$75K

• Title and salary will be commensurate with education and experience.
• Gladstone is an equal opportunity employer.