Research Scientist/Engineer 1

Job Description

Department of Immunology has an outstanding opportunity for a motivated Research Scientist/Engineer 1 to join Dr. Von Moltke’s team. This position will help assist lab members with experiments and help manage day-to-day operations of the lab. He/she will perform a variety of tasks to support research in the lab, including maintenance of a mouse colony and helminth stocks. Parasitic worms (helminths), allergens, and certain protists all induce a “type 2” immune response that causes increased mucus production (runny nose), smooth muscle hypercontractility (coughing & sneezing), and other changes in tissue function. Why the immune system treats all of these triggers the same way remains unclear. To address this and other questions, research in the Moltke labs focuses on the initiation and regulation of type 2 immunity. Currently, the lab focuses on specialized cells in the intestinal lining called tuft cells that detect the presence of worms in the intestine using the same proteins that taste buds use to detect food. Our findings should inform the development of improved therapies for asthma, allergy, and related disorders.

About this Opportunity:

Reporting to Associate Professor, the Research Scientist/Engineer 1 is expected to use established systems/approaches to solve well-defined problems with a limited number of variables and few complex features. The Research Scientist/Engineer will also conduct experiments and tests in the immunology field that include making measurements and recording data. He/she will work under limited supervision, contribute data for use in reports and publications, and is expected to participate in regular laboratory meetings and events. The successful candidate will translate clear expectations regarding time management and task prioritization into efficient support for the research team.

Key Responsibilities:

• Tasks and experimental techniques to be performed will include:
• Maintain a breeding colony of mice under specific-pathogen-free conditions, including animal husbandry, weaning, ear tagging, genotyping, and updating the mouse census (20%)
• Basic molecular biology, including PCR, DNA preparation and cloning (10%)
• Maintain laboratory stocks of worms (helminths) (10%)
• Prepare laboratory reagents (5%)
• Multicolor flow cytometry and immunofluorescence microscopy (20%)
• Perform experimental procedures on mice, including bleeding and cell and tissue isolation (20%)
• Organize and analyze research data (10%)
• Participate in laboratory meetings (5%)

Required Qualifications:

• To be considered for this opportunity your application must demonstrate you meet both the minimum qualifications and additional qualifications listed below. Equivalent education and/or experience may substitute for minimum qualifications except when there are legal requirements, such as a license, certification, and/or registration.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in biological sciences, biochemistry, or related field. and one year of relevant experience. OR
• Equivalent education and/or experience may substitute for minimum qualifications except when there are legal requirements, such as a license, certification, and/or registration.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with laboratory mice, molecular biology, immunology, and/or tissue culture.
• Excellent organizational, computational and record keeping skills, attention to detail, ability to work independently but within a team environment, and willingness to work with laboratory mice.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills.

Compensation, Benefits and Position Details

Pay Range Minimum:

Pay Range Maximum:

Other Compensation:

Benefits:

Shift:

Temporary or Regular?

FTE (Full-Time Equivalent):

Union/Bargaining Unit:

About the UW 

Working at the University of Washington provides a unique opportunity to change lives – on our campuses, in our state and around the world.  

UW employees bring their boundless energy, creative problem-solving skills and dedication to building stronger minds and a healthier world. In return, they enjoy outstanding benefits, opportunities for professional growth and the chance to work in an environment known for its diversity, intellectual excitement, artistic pursuits and natural beauty. 

Our Commitment 

The University of Washington is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful and welcoming community for all. As an equal opportunity employer, the University considers applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, citizenship, sex, pregnancy, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, disability, or veteran status consistent with UW Executive Order No. 81.

To request disability accommodation in the application process, contact the Disability Services Office at 206-543-6450 or [email protected]. 

Applicants considered for this position will be required to disclose if they are the subject of any substantiated findings or current investigations related to sexual misconduct at their current employment and past employment. Disclosure is required under Washington state law.