Job Description

We are seeking a Research Technician to support the lab of Dr. Keiko Torii at The University of Texas, Austin. The Torii lab has a long-standing interest in unravelling how plant stem cells function and contribute to growth and development, with specific emphasis on signal transduction pathways and the underpinning genomic/epigenomic mechanisms. In addition to harnessing biochemistry, chemical biology, and synthetic biology, we are designing and building synthetic signal transduction circuits to control plant growth and development in response to a changing climate. More information on the lab can be found on our website .

The Research Technician will collaborate closely with one or two post-doctoral fellows to support research projects within the lab and will hold an integral role in support of science. We are ideally targeting candidates looking to commit to the lab at least 2-3 years before moving on to your next opportunity.

Please include a CV which includes your GPA, transcript, cover letter, and a list of three professional references with contact information (names, phone numbers, and e-mail addresses) as part of your application.

What you can gain:

• A competitive compensation package with comprehensive health and welfare benefits.

• The opportunity to contribute to publications and learn new scientific approaches to expand your knowledge and skills.

• Hands-on training and mentorship.

• A vibrant cultural environment.

• Weekly meetings with the Investigator and lab members in a collaborative and highly team-oriented setting.

• Competitive employment package at a premier institution.

• Learn and master fundamental and advanced techniques in molecular biology, genetics, plant biology, biochemistry and cell/developmental biology.

• Opportunity to present your research progress at scientific conferences and co-author scientific manuscripts, if your contributions lead to new discoveries.

• Advance your administrative skills and portfolio.

​ What You'll Do:

• Work with undergraduate lab assistants on dish-washing lab equipment, making media for bacteria, yeast, and plants, sterilization, and making chemical solutions to ensure operational success. Train new incoming undergraduates.

• Perform/assist projects that may involve the following techniques: Basic molecular cloning (primer design, PCR, DNA/RNA purification), qRT-PCR and gene expression analyses, genotyping transgenic and mutant materials, running DNA gels. Maintain and organize E.coli , Agrobacterium and yeast strains for recombinant protein expression and purification. Perform recombinant protein expression, purification, and SDS-Page and Immunoblotting.  Assist sowing, transplanting, growing, propagation and maintenance of transgenic and mutant plants, mostly Arabidopsis. Take care of plants, such as regular watering. Harvest seeds and organize and inventory them. Additionally, the successful applicant may perform advanced microscopy and imaging, column chromatography and protein-protein/protein-small molecule interaction assays, and bioassays using seedlings, protoplasts, or cell culture systems as needed.

• Collect, record, organize and verify the accuracy of data; perform calculations and prepare charts, graphs and reports. May use software applications to assemble, manipulate and/or format data. Ability to perform data visualization and statistical analysis is a big plus.

• Assist Lab Manager with general lab administration and maintenance as needed (e.g. purchase order, coordinating equipment acquisition and repair, communicating with vendors, and participating in institutional biohazard and chemical hazard inspections).

• Participate in laboratory meetings and planning sessions. Present at the lab meeting. Read literature applicable to research areas as required. Learn how to use software, image analysis and basic bioinformatics tools (e.g. R, python, ImageJ) necessary for the project, and other tasks as needed to contribute to the efficient and effective functioning of a research laboratory.

What You Bring:

• Bachelor's degree in Biological Sciences, biochemistry, Plant Biology, Agricultural Sciences, or related disciplines.

• Previous experience or familiarity with some of the following experimental techniques and understanding of the underlying scientific principles is a plus:

  • Basic handling of Arabidopsis thaliana

  • RT-qPCR, RNA purification and ChIP experiments

  • Advanced Confocal microscopy

  • Protein purification and biophysical analysis

• Curiosity-driven and goal-oriented.

• Meticulous, focused, and attentive to details.

• High work ethic and sense of responsibility.

• Has strong problem-solving skills.

• Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively as a team.

• Excellent communication skills.

• Ability to use good judgment in managing deadlines and responding to inquiries.

Physical Requirements

Remaining in a normal seated or standing position for extended periods of time; reaching and grasping by extending hand(s) or arm(s); dexterity to manipulate objects with fingers, for example using a keyboard; communication skills using the spoken word; ability to see and hear within normal parameters; ability to move about workspace. The position requires mobility, including the ability to move materials weighing up to several pounds (such as a laptop computer or tablet). Work may involve possible exposure to malodorous vapors, low dose radiation, contamination by toxic chemicals and acids and presence of carcinogenic substances or other hazardous materials.

Persons with disabilities may be able to perform the essential duties of this position with reasonable accommodation. Requests for reasonable accommodation will be evaluated on an individual basis.

Please Note:

This job description sets forth the job’s principal duties, responsibilities, and requirements; it should not be construed as an exhaustive statement, however.  Unless they begin with the word “may,” the Essential Duties and Responsibilities described above are “essential functions” of the job, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act.

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