Job Description

Life Science Research Professional 1 (1 Year Fixed Term) at Stanford University summary:

The Life Science Research Professional I at Stanford University’s Department of Genetics conducts high-throughput biochemical and chromatin biology research, focusing on DNA binding proteins and CRISPR enzyme characterization. The role involves designing and performing experiments, maintaining lab equipment, and collaborating within a multidisciplinary team to advance genomic technologies and cellular epigenome studies. Candidates should have a bachelor's degree in a related field, experience with molecular biology techniques, and strong organizational and analytical skills.

The Department of Genetics at Stanford University seeks a 1 year fixed term Life Science Research Professional (LSRP) I to join William Greenleaf’s lab, focusing on new, high-throughput technology for biochemistry and chromatin biology. The LSRP will be an integral member of a diverse and interdisciplinary research team determined to transform the study of biomolecular interactions and cellular epigenomes. Current priorities include exhaustive profiling and biophysical modeling of sequence landscapes for DNA binding proteins, and characterization of newly discovered and engineered CRISPR enzymes. Other projects in the lab include building a genome-level human cell atlas of gene expression and DNA accessibility and improving single-cell genomic technologies. More broadly, the Greenleaf lab joins the rest of the Genetics department in crafting sequencing- and big data-driven answers to longstanding questions regarding the physical basis of gene regulation and cellular differentiation.

A successful future member of the lab will be a team player ready to be organized, solve problems, and communicate his/her findings effectively. We invite motivated, creative, and reliable individuals to apply to join us in our highly collaborative, cutting-edge research at the forefront of modern biology.

Specific tasks include being trained for and performing a technique newly developed in the Greenleaf lab – massively parallel filter binding – and maintaining and expanding the constituent equipment as needed. The LSRP will also be expected to contribute their own ideas and techniques to the lab and attend lab meetings and journal clubs.

Other duties include:

• Plan approach to experiments in support of research projects in lab and/or field based on knowledge of scientific theory.
• Independently conduct experiments; maintain detailed records of experiments and outcomes.
• Apply the theories and methods of a life science discipline to interpret and perform analyses of experiment results; offer suggestions regarding modifications to procedures and protocols in collaboration with senior researcher.
• Review literature on an ongoing basis to remain current with new procedures and apply learnings to related research.
• Contribute to publication of findings as needed. Participate in the preparation of written documents, including procedures, presentations, and proposals.
• Help with general lab maintenance as needed; maintain lab stock, manage chemical inventory and safety records, and provide general lab support as needed.
• Assist with orientation and training of new staff or students on lab procedures or techniques.

*- Other duties may also be assigned.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's degree in Bioengineering, Genetics, Biochemistry, or Molecular Biology.
• Experience with general molecular biology techniques, such as PAGE, PCR, qPCR, etc.
• Experience performing and analyzing experiments independently for a scientific publication
• Experience with tissue culture
• Familiarity with CRISPR/Cas9
• Experience with high-throughput sequencing methods

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE (REQUIRED):

Bachelor's degree in related scientific field.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (REQUIRED):

• General understanding of scientific principles. Demonstrated performance to use knowledge and skills when needed.
• Demonstrated ability to apply theoretical knowledge of science principals to problem solve work.
• Ability to maintain detailed records of experiments and outcomes.
• General computer skills and ability to quickly learn and master computer programs, databases, and scientific applications.
• Ability to work under deadlines with general guidance.
• Excellent organizational skills and demonstrated ability to accurately complete detailed work.

CERTIFICATIONS & LICENSES:

None.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS*:

• Frequently stand, walk, twist, bend, stoop, squat, grasp lightly, use fine manipulation, grasp forcefully, perform desk-based computer tasks, use telephone, write by hand, lift, carry, push and pull objects weighing over 40 pounds.
• Occasionally sit, kneel, crawl, reach and work above shoulders, sort and file paperwork or parts.
• Rarely climb, scrub, sweep, mop, chop and mix or operate hand and foot controls.
• Must have correctible vision to perform duties of the job.
• Ability to bend, squat, kneel, stand, reach above shoulder level, and move on hard surfaces for up to eight hours.
• Ability to lift heavy objects weighing up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to work in a dusty, dirty, and odorous environment.
• Position may require repetitive motion.

*- Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodation to any employee with a disability who requires accommodation to perform the essential functions of his or her job.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• May require working in close proximity to blood borne pathogens.
• May require work in an environment where animals are used for teaching and research.
• Position may at times require the employee to work with or be in areas where hazardous materials and/or infectious diseases are present.
• Employee must perform tasks that require the use of personal protective equipment, such as safety glasses and shoes, protective clothing and gloves, and possibly a respirator.
• May require extended or unusual work hours based on research requirements and business needs.

WORK STANDARDS (from JDL):

• Interpersonal Skills: Demonstrates the ability to work well with Stanford colleagues and clients and with external organizations.
• Promote Culture of Safety: Demonstrates commitment to personal responsibility and value for safety; communicates safety concerns; uses and promotes safe behaviors bases on training and lessons learned.
• Subject to and expected to comply with all applicable University policies and procedures, including but not limited to the personnel policies and other policies found in the University’s Administrative Guide,

The expected pay range for this position is $26.44 to $36.54 per hour. Stanford University provides pay ranges representing its good faith estimate of what the university reasonably expects to pay for a position. The pay offered to a selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the qualifications of the selected candidate, departmental budget availability, internal equity, geographic location and external market pay for comparable jobs.

At Stanford University, base pay represents only one aspect of the comprehensive rewards package. The Cardinal at Work website ( provides detailed information on Stanford’s extensive range of benefits and rewards offered to employees. Specifics about the rewards package for this position may be discussed during the hiring process.

Keywords:

Life Science Research, Genetics, Molecular Biology, CRISPR, High-throughput Sequencing, Biochemistry, Chromatin Biology, DNA Binding Proteins, Genomic Technologies, Lab Techniques

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