This position is part of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Professional Research Experience Program (PREP). NIST recognizes that its research staff may want to collaborate with researchers at academic institutions on specific projects of mutual interest and, therefore, requires those institutions to be recipients of a PREP award. The PREP program involves staff from a wide range of backgrounds conducting scientific research across various fields. Individuals in this position will perform technical work supporting the collaboration's scientific research.
Research Title:
Research Scientist for Cell-free Expression System Metrology
The work will entail:
The Materials Measurement Laboratory of the National Institute of Standards and Technology is seeking qualified U.S. Citizens to support the Cellular Engineering Group and NIST Engineering Biology Program, by leading projects to develop measurement assurance for cell-free expression systems from diverse samples, including reconstituted and microbial samples. Leads the development of characterization assays for cell-free systems. Assists automating reagent preparation, cell-free reaction assembly, and characterization, using the NIST Living Measurement Systems Foundry (LMSF) and other laboratory automation. Analyzes experimental and simulation data, including uncertainty and other statistical analyses. Documents and manages protocols, data, and analyses. Regularly presents and discusses progress with the larger organization.
U.S. Citizen Preferred
Key responsibilities will include but are not limited to:
- Leads, plans, and carries out difficult and complex assignments in cell-free expression systems and RNA circuits with limited supervision.
- Develops new methods, approaches, and procedures in cooperation with coworkers or advisors.
- Completed work has a sound overall approach and effectively meets requirements.
- Communicates effectively with peers and stakeholders to plan share work outputs.
Qualifications
- A Doctoral degree in chemical engineering, bioengineering, cell biology, chemistry, physics, synthetic biology, or a related field.
- Demonstrated knowledge of cell biology, molecular biology, microbial culture, reconstituted and lysate-based cell-free expression systems, and synthetic/engineering biology.
- Demonstrated leadership and management of technical projects and programs.
- 5 years of relevant experience.
Strong oral and written communication skills.
The university is an Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer that does not unlawfully discriminate in any of its programs or activities on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or on any other basis prohibited by applicable law.