Research Technician II - 163288
The Azoitei Lab at the Duke Human Vaccine Institute (DHVI), is currently recruiting for a Research Technician II to join our team. DHVI is an interdisciplinary, interdepartmental institute dedicated to the study of basic and translational science required to understand host-pathogen interactions that can be translated to vaccines against human diseases. We are a team of highly interactive investigators that have expertise in immunology, molecular biology, virology, microbiology, structural biology, computational biology, and vaccine science.
Research in the Azoitei lab is focused on two synergistic areas that are critical for the development of vaccines against highly infectious pathogens such as HIV, influenza and SRAS-CoV-2: 1) rational immunogen design for the induction of broadly neutralizing antibodies and 2) determining the biophysical properties of antigens that lead to B cell activation and development for antibody secretion. For immunogen design, we employ a rational, structure-based approach that utilizes state of the art computational protein design algorithms (Rosetta) and high-throughput library screening on the surface of yeast and mammalian cells. We are currently developing immunogens against HIV, influenza and SARS-CoV-2. To study B cell signaling in response to antigens, we utilize molecular tools (fluorescent biosensors and optogenetic probes) to visualize and control the activity of key signaling molecules in live cell microscopy experiments. While the molecules involved in B cell activation are well characterized, little is known about how the subcellular localization, duration and intensity of their activities are shaped by the biophysical properties of different antigens. All our work involves collaborations with structural biologists, immunologists and virologists.
Responsibilities
- Perform DNA extraction and purification from bacterial cultures (mini/midi/maxi preps)
- Perform DNA amplification and gene assembly by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) followed by cloning (agarose gel electrophoresis, digestion, ligation, E. Coli transformation, and sequencing)
- Perform DNA library transformation into S. Cerivisiae, followed by culture and sample preparation for fluorescence activated cell sorting (FACS)
- Perform tissue culture to maintain, propagate and transfect mammalian cell lines
- Perform recombinant protein expression and purification by immobilized metal affinity (IMAC) and size exclusion chromatography (SEC)
- Prepare buffers, plates, and media for bacterial and yeast cultures
- Perform ordering responsibilities for the laboratory, including taking inventory, restocking, submitting orders, managing samples and coordinating with other lab members regarding their specific research needs
- Perform other laboratory or data management duties, including laboratory maintenance tasks, as requested by the Principal Investigator
Required Qualifications at this Level
- Education/Training: Work generally requires a bachelor's degree in botany, biology, zoology, psychology or other directly related scientific field.
- Experience: None required above education/training requirement. OR AN EQUIVALENT COMBINATION OF RELEVANT EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE