Research Technician II - Biochemistry

Position Summary The Ghanbarpour Laboratory in the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics at WashU Medicine is seeking a highly motivated Research Technician to join our interdisciplinary research program. Our lab investigates how bacteria and human mitochondria maintain homeostasis and respond to stress and environmental challenges. A central focus of our research is uncovering the molecular mechanisms of ATP‑dependent AAA proteolytic machines, both soluble and membrane‑spanning, and their accessory factors in bacterial and mitochondrial systems. We study how these complexes assemble, achieve substrate specificity, and promote bacterial recovery from antibiotic stress, environmental changes, and pathogen attack. These efforts integrate cryo‑EM and cryo‑ET structural biology, biochemical and cellular assays, and mass spectrometry. The lab also explores bacterial defense mechanisms against bacteriophage infection, including rewiring of proteolytic systems and the deployment of innate immune strategies that enable survival during phage attack. In addition, another major focus of our research is protein engineering and the development of new molecular tools based on these proteolytic systems. As a Research Technician II, you will receive extensive hands‑on training in cryo‑EM sample preparation and data analysis, heterogeneity analysis tools, mass spectrometry, membrane biology, biochemistry, and cellular assays. The Ghanbarpour Laboratory and WashU Medicine provide state‑of‑the‑art infrastructure for structural biology, biochemistry, and mass spectrometry, along with a highly collaborative research environment. This position is well suited for individuals planning to pursue graduate school, medical school, or a research‑focused academic career. The position is supported by NIH grant R35GM160328, the Longer Life Foundation, and WashU startup funds. Job Description Primary Duties & Responsibilities Assist with research studies, experiments and assays, including collection of data, preparation of solutions, and setup and maintenance of equipment. Perform data entry and maintain research data files. Prepare tissue cultures, reagents, probe tests, etc. Comply with established safety procedures and maintain required laboratory documentation. Ensure laboratory conditions and equipment are properly cleaned and maintained according to established procedures. Assist with general laboratory maintenance and cleaning. Perform other duties as assigned. Working Conditions The position works in a laboratory environment with potential exposure to biological and chemical hazards. The individual must be physically able to wear protective equipment and provide standard care to research animals. Scheduled Hours 40 hours per week. Education & Qualifications Required Qualifications Bachelor’s degree or a combination of education and/or experience may substitute for the minimum education. Preferred Qualifications Up to one year of experience in a laboratory setting. Experience in biochemistry, genetic microbiology, cell biology, or protein engineering. Skills Communication Detailed reports Laboratory instrumentation Laboratory research Software program Working independently Benefits Statement Personal Up to 22 days of vacation, 10 recognized holidays, and sick time. Competitive health insurance packages with priority appointments and lower copays/coinsurance. Free Metro transit U‑Pass for eligible employees. Defined contribution (403(b)) Retirement Savings Plan, including employee contributions and university contributions starting at 7%. Wellness Wellness challenges, annual health screenings, mental health resources, mindfulness programs and courses, employee assistance program (EAP), financial resources, access to dietitians, and more. Family 4 weeks of caregiver leave to bond with your new child. Family care resources are also available for your continued childcare needs. WashU covers tuition for you and your family, including dependent undergraduate‑level college tuition up to 100% at WashU and 40% elsewhere after seven years with us. Salary Range Base pay is commensurate with experience. EEO Statement Washington University in St. Louis is committed to the principles and practices of equal employment opportunity. It is the University’s policy to provide equal opportunity and access to persons in all job titles without regard to race, ethnicity, color, national origin, citizenship (where prohibited by federal law), age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information. #J-18808-Ljbffr Washington University in St. Louis