Staff Research Associate (9613C), Molecular & Cell Biology - 33025 About Berkeley
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Departmental Overview
The Department of Molecular & Cell Biology (MCB) is home to undergraduate and graduate academic programs as well as Faculty Research performed by faculty organized in five divisions:
Biochemistry, Biophysics and Structural Biology Cell and Developmental Biology Genetics, Genomics and Development Immunology and Pathogenesis Neurobiology
The teaching and research activities of the Department of Molecular and Cell Biology (MCB) concern the molecular structures and processes of cellular life and their roles in the function, reproduction, and development of living organisms. This agenda covers a broad range of specialized disciplines, including biochemistry, biophysics, molecular biology, structural biology, genetics, genomics, bioinformatics, cell biology, developmental biology, tumor biology, microbiology, immunology, pathogenesis and neurobiology. The types of living organisms from which the departmental faculty draws its working materials are as diverse as its disciplinary specializations, ranging from viruses and microbes through plants, roundworms, annelids, arthropods, and mollusks to fish, amphibia, and mammals. The faculty of the department is organized into five divisions: Biochemistry and Molecular Biology; Cell and Developmental Biology; Genetics, Genomics and Development; Neurobiology; and Immunology and Pathogenesis.
The Departments of Molecular and Cell Biology (MCB) and Integrative Biology (IB) together are among the largest academic departments at UC Berkeley. By several measures (including number of faculty and students, budget, and assigned square feet), these departments are larger than many UCB colleges and schools. The two departments represent over 186 faculty FTE (including Adjuncts, Professors of the Graduate School, active emeriti and 15 HHMI professors); 150 postdocs and other research positions; 375 graduate students; 80 department staff members; and 8 recharge centers. Financial resources include approximately $51M in annual extramural funding (which accounts for over half of the total sponsored research awards in the College of Letters & Science) and over $46M other fund sources. The department has 1,800 declared undergraduate majors (the largest majors on the Berkeley campus) and a total annual enrollment in classes of ~20,000. Department personnel are currently housed in seven buildings located in three widely separated parts of the campus.
Application Review Date
The First Review Date for this job is: March 31, 2022.
Responsibilities
Perform DNA sequencing data analysis using ABI Sequence Analysis Software and e-mail sequence results to customers.
Maintain precise records of all work. Help collect DNA samples from five drop off locations on campus, prepare DNA sequencing samples by organizing and setting up reactions for cycle sequencing reactions.
Enter sample and customer names to DNA database and schedule sequencing runs on ABI 3730 XL DNA Analyzers.
Perform clean up of DNA sequencing reactions with CleanSEQ Dye Terminator Clean-Up system using Beckman Coulter Biomek NX Automated Liquid Handlers.
Prepare buffers and solutions.
Set up DNA Analyzers and Biomek NX workstations ready for the samples.
Perform high-throughput plasmid purification and PCR cleanup reactions using Beckman Biomek Automated liquid handlers as needed.
Use a spectrophotometer to evaluate DNA quality and quantity and prepare samples from those procedures for sequencing.
Set up genotyping samples by creating run modules according to the fragment size and the dye-sets used and change the filter set in ABI 3730XL for the particular dye-set. Evaluate genotyping run results and email to customer.
Prepare and perform quality control of full plasmid sequencing libraries.
Run the pooled library in an illumine sequencer.
Perform data cleaning, sorting and demultiplexing, followed by De-Novo assembly or map to a reference when a reference is available.
Keep track of each run by creating coverage map of each sample.
Help training and supervision of student assistants.
Assist researchers with setting up their new genotyping and sequencing projects and troubleshoot the failed or poor results.
Advise researchers with their experimental designs and technical aspects of DNA preparation, primer design, etc.
Keep up to date with technological advances in DNA sequencing technologies and attend workshops, seminars and meetings.
Help with researching and developing new sequencing protocols for handling difficult templates, testing protocols and making recommendations to manager.
Assist in development and maintenance of standard operating procedures documentation for general lab reference.
Perform weekly re-start of four 3730XL DNA Analyzers, three Beckman Coulter Biomek NX robots and the computers.
Clean four ABI 3730XL DNA Analyzers and load new polymers regularly.
Change capillary arrays and run matrix standard when necessary.
Perform instrument calibrations and regular maintenance work on four DNA Analyzers and three Biomek NX automated liquid handlers (Weekly: equipment re-start, preventative maintenance for memory issues, framing of Biomek NXs).
Troubleshoot equipment problems or set up a service call to solve the problem.
Required Qualifications
Must be a team player and adaptable to changes in work environment. Experience in medium to high-throughput environment is essential. Strong computer skills and extensive experience and knowledge of DNA sequencing and genotyping. Bioinformatics and programming experience. Advanced knowledge of and/or ability to learn a wide variety of specialized laboratory equipment, including the automated sequencers, thermal cyclers, and automated liquid handlers. Knowledge of and/or ability to learn necessary lab safety procedures and requirements, as well as chemical disposal guidelines. Ability to work independently in an efficient manner and with attention to details. Excellent interpersonal, organizational and oral/written communication skills are must.
Education
Degree in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Chemistry or related field plus hands on research experience and/or equivalent training or experience.
Salary & Benefits
This position is a non-exempt, bi-weekly paid position. Hourly pay for this role is commensurate with experience.
For information on the comprehensive benefits package offered by the University visit: https://ucnet.universityofcalifornia.edu/compensation-and-benefits/index.html