Research Intern

Position Description:

Position Summary

The laboratory of Dr. Alex Miller in the Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics is seeking a full-time postbaccalaureate research intern. The intern will conduct research focused on characterizing membrane proteins in infectious disease such as SARS-CoV-2 and pathogenic yeast.

Position Responsibilities

Lab research contributions: The intern will perform research activities following established protocols developed by other research staff or the principal investigator of the research project. Laboratory work will encompass various techniques including PCR and molecular cloning methods, membrane protein expression and purification, cryo-electron microscopy sample preparation, co-immunoprecipitation experiments, western blotting, fungal growth and imaging assays, and possibly membrane protein/ion channel reconstitution for liposome transport assays.

As the research intern gains expertise with lab techniques and procedures, they will take on greater independence and collaborate with other laboratory members. Their role will progressively expand to include experimental design and data analysis, as well as preparation of materials for abstracts, reports, grant applications, and manuscripts.

Lab administrative responsibilities: The intern will assist in handling lab administrative tasks, including managing lab supply orders, organizing protocols and documents, ensuring compliance with safety regulations, and maintaining meticulous laboratory and experimental records.

Education Requirements:

Requires a Bachelor's degree in Biochemistry, Chemistry, Molecular Biology, or a related laboratory-based science field.

Required Qualifications:

A basic understanding of biochemistry and molecular biology principles is essential. Preference will be given to candidates with prior experience in a laboratory setting and a solid grasp of fundamental laboratory techniques. Strong attention to detail, analytical skills, and the ability to troubleshoot experiments. Effective communication and teamwork skills, with the ability to collaborate in a multidisciplinary research environment. Must be willing to work some weekends due to the nature of experiments lasting several days.

Desirable Qualifications:

Laboratory experience that includes mammalian cell culture (working aseptically), standard molecular and biochemistry techniques including PCR and western blots.