The Research Technician will be part of the Biochemistry department at Vanderbilt University. The overall goal of the Meydan Lab is to determine the mechanisms of protein synthesis, the regulatory role of ribosomes and the role of translation regulation in human health. This position will help maintain day to day functions of the lab, help establish new experimental protocols, and participate in novel research. This position will require both independent and collaborative work, so the abilities to learn new techniques, self-manage projects, and work in a team is essential. This position includes opportunities for publication and laboratory experience that can provide a strong background for future applications to advanced degree programs.

The Meydan Lab is interested in the mechanisms of protein synthesis, and the role of translation regulation and ribosomes in human health. We use various biochemistry techniques, sequencing of ribosome protected mRNA fragments, (a.k.a ribosome profiling (Ribo-seq), disome profiling (Disome-seq), and mitoribosome profiling), and RNA-seq in model systems of Saccharomyces cerevisiae (budding yeast), immortalized human cells, and neurons differentiated from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) to address our questions.

Duties and Responsibilities:

Assists in Research and Development:

• Collects data using appropriate lab experiments, procedures, and techniques

• Maintains knowledge of current literature on Meydan Lab’s research focus

• Prepares buffers and reagents

• Generates and maintains plasmids, yeast strains and mammalian cell lines

• Analyzes and interprets data with assistance of other members of the laboratory

• Writes and updates laboratory protocols

• Reports on the status of research activities in oral and written formats

• Assembles and compiles research data for presentations and/or publications

Maintenance

• Conducts general lab maintenance

• Assists in set up, operation, and maintenance of laboratory equipment including, but not limited to – biosafety cabinets, incubators, centrifuges, etc.

Performs administrative duties

• Monitors inventory of supplies and assists with ordering

• Participates in one-on-one meetings and group lab meetings to discuss project progress

• Other tasks as directed by supervisor

Qualifications

• A Bachelor’s degree in biochemistry, biological sciences, chemistry, or related field from an accredited institution of higher education is necessary.

• Knowledge and experience with plasmid cloning is preferred.

• Knowledge and experience with next generation sequencing is preferred.

• Knowledge and experience with mammalian cell culture is preferred.

• Knowledge and experience of yeast growth and maintenance techniques is preferred.

• Experience with organization, inventory, and record keeping is preferred.

• Excellent organizational and communications skills (both verbal and written) are preferred.

Commitment to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion

At Vanderbilt University, we are intentional about and assume accountability for fostering advancement and respect for equity, diversity, and inclusion for all students, faculty, and staff. Our commitment to diversity makes us who we are. We have created a community that celebrates differences and lets individuality thrive. As part of this commitment, we actively value diversity in our workplace and learning environments as we seek to take advantage of the rich backgrounds and abilities of everyone. The diverse voices of Vanderbilt represent an invaluable resource for the University in its efforts to fulfill its mission and strive to be an example of excellence in higher education.

Vanderbilt University is an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Please note, all candidates selected for an offer of employment are subject to pre-employment background checks, which may include but are not limited to, based on the role for which they have been selected: criminal history, education verification, social media review, motor vehicle records, credit history, and professional license verification.

Commitment to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion At Vanderbilt University, we are intentional about and assume accountability for fostering advancement and respect for equity, diversity, and inclusion for all students, faculty, and staff. Our commitment to diversity makes us who we are. We have created a community that celebrates differences and lets individuality thrive. As part of this commitment, we actively value diversity in our workplace and learning environments as we seek to take advantage of the rich backgrounds and abilities of everyone. The diverse voices of Vanderbilt represent an invaluable resource for the University in its efforts to fulfill its mission and strive to be an example of excellence in higher education. Vanderbilt University is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer. Women, minorities, people with disabilities, and protected veterans are encouraged to apply.