Research Lab Specialist Inter - Maurer Lab

Research Lab Specialist Intermediate

The Maurer laboratory at the University of Michigan is currently seeking a Research Lab Specialist Intermediate. The Maurer Lab combines super-resolution microscopy with genomic, biochemical, and proteomic approaches to understand the vector-host interactions driving successful rAAV gene therapies.

We are particularly interested in a candidate who has experience with mammalian cell culture and molecular cloning techniques. The Maurer lab is part of the Department of Biophysics, which has a long tradition of education and research in the field. The University of Michigan Department of Biophysics has pushed the boundaries of traditional work in fundamental chemical sciences into the interface with other disciplines.

Responsibilities

40% Under the general direction of the faculty member and Senior Scientist, develop, design, and conduct research using microscopy, molecular biology, and biochemical techniques, using both cultured cells and animal models. Produce recombinant AAV vector preparations at medium scales, perform all quality control of vector preparations, and clone & maintain all plasmid stocks required to do so. Document, analyze and evaluate results; identify new research methods/techniques; identify and solve research problems.

25% Training and assisting Research Fellows, graduate students, and undergraduate students with preparations, research techniques, use of instruments, methods, and procedures to help advance the research objectives of the laboratory.

20% Assay Development and implementation, including but not limited to Nanopore sequencing for vector genome integrity, whole DNA extraction and quantification from transduced cells, and vector titration methodology.

10% Maintaining adequate stocks and documentation of supplies, preparing and aliquoting reagents, assisting in hazardous and nonhazardous waste disposal/removal, and ensuring the lab is using environmentally responsible practices (i.e., minimizing plastic waste in landfills).

5% Assisting the PI and Senior Scientist with administrative tasks relevant to research goals.

Required Qualifications

Molecular and Cellular Biology-related MS degree with 2+ years of experience in Adeno-associated virus/vector research

BS or MS degree with 4+ years of experience in Adeno-associated virus/vector research (academic or industry). Experience must be with AAV, not other viral vectors.

Expertise in producing recombinant AAV vectors at small- to medium-scale, including purification, titer assessment by qPCR and ddPCR, and quality control.

Expertise in designing and implementing rAAV capsid and vector genome variants

Strong working knowledge of AAV biology and the primary literature.

Expertise in molecular cloning, including Gibson assembly, PCR, restriction digestions and ligation, site-directed mutagenesis, type II-S, and troubleshooting.

Desired Qualifications

Preferred experience administering rAAV vectors to mice and harvesting relevant tissues, but willingness to learn is sufficient.

Preferred experience generating transgenic cell lines and maintaining stocks of cryopreserved lines

Preferred experience in mammalian cell culture beyond HEK293 cells. Organoid and/or primary cell culture experience is a major plus.