Research Scientist/Engineer 3

Job Description

Field of research this position:

The Institute for Protein Design (IPD) at the University of Washington is a world-leading research center focused on creating new proteins that solve challenges in medicine, technology, and sustainability. Founded by Nobel laureate David Baker, the IPD fosters a collaborative, interdisciplinary environment, bringing together expertise in computational design, biochemistry, genome sciences, and structural biology. Current projects include the development of novel therapeutics, vaccines, enzymes, and protein-based nanomaterials. Learn more at ipd.uw.edu.

Purpose of the research project(s):

The Research Scientist/Engineer 3 will play a critical role in supporting and advancing structural characterization efforts at the IPD. By meeting the growing demand for negative-stain and cryo-EM structural characterization, this position directly impacts the success of multiple research projects and collaborative initiatives, contributing to the IPD’s mission to design proteins to address global challenges.

Major Duties and responsibilities:

Cryo-EM and ns-EM Structural Characterization (60%)
1. Conduct structural studies of computationally designed proteins and protein nanomaterials using negative-stain EM and cryo-EM single-particle analysis (with an emphasis on sub-100 kDa protein structure determination).
2. Process and analyze EM data, perform 3D reconstructions, and build and validate structural models.
3. Collaborate with internal and external researchers to provide structural insights into protein design projects.
4. Prepare manuscripts, generate publication-quality figures, and contribute to the communication of research findings through presentations and written documentation.

Mentorship and Training (25%)
1. Train and mentor junior researchers, including postdoctoral fellows, graduate students, and staff, in negative-stain EM and cryo-EM methodologies.
2. Develop and maintain standard operating procedures for negative-stain and cryo-EM workflows.

Instrumentation Oversight (15%)
1. Manage and maintain IPD-specific EM equipment, including three Talos L120C microscopes, a negative-stain sample preparation station, and a cryo-EM sample preparation station which includes a Vitrobot Mark IV.
2. Coordinate service and maintenance schedules for IPD-specific instruments and ensure optimal performance.
3. Work with department-owned instrumentation, including the on-site 200 kV Glacios, 300 kV Krios, 120 kV T-12 Spirit, and Aquilos for FIB-milling, as as needed to support IPD research and collaborative efforts.
4. Coordinate the scheduling, operation, and remote utilization of Cryo-EM instruments at national centers, ensuring efficient use of IPD-allocated resources and overseeing the shipment of samples to support research objectives.

Required Qualifications

To be considered for this opportunity your application must demonstrate you meet both the minimum qualifications and additional qualifications listed below. Equivalent education and/or experience may substitute for minimum qualifications except when there are legal requirements, such as a license,
certification, and/or registration.”

Minimum Requirements:

Applicants who do not meet these qualifications WILL NOT be forwarded to the Hiring Department.

Bachelor's Degree in Biochemistry, Biology, Physics or related field and 4 years of relevant experience with electron microscopy-based sample characterization.

Additional Requirements:
● Expertise in single-particle analysis workflows for cryo-EM.
● Proficiency in cryo-EM data processing software such as cryoSPARC, Relion, EMAN, Dynamo, and/or IMOD, including experience with tools commonly used for tomography data processing.
● Proficiency in structural modeling and validation software such as Phenix, Rosetta, Chimera, ISOLDE, Namdinator, and COOT.
● Strong experience working in command-line environments (Linux/Unix terminals)
● Proven experience mentoring and training researchers in cryo-EM and ns-EM techniques.
● Strong technical and scientific problem-solving skills.
● Exceptional ability to multitask and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
● A collaborative mindset with a strong desire to work as part of a multidisciplinary team.

Desire:

● Doctorate degree in biochemistry, biology, or any other relevant field preferred.

● At least 4 years of hands-on experience in cryo-electron microscopy, including sample preparation, data collection, image processing, and structure building.
● Experience with cryoEM structure determination of small (sub-100 kDa) protein structures.
● Familiarity with managing and maintaining cryo-EM instrumentation.
● Experience with protein expression, purification, and cryo-EM sample optimization.
● Strong understanding of structural biology principles and their application to protein design and analysis.
● Experience with grant writing or securing funding for scientific projects.
● Ability to publish high-quality research in peer-reviewed journals and present findings at conferences.
● Experience implementing or contributing to automated data collection workflows for cryo-EM.
● Familiarity with high-performance computing environments for large-scale data processing.

Compensation, Benefits and Position Details

Pay Range Minimum:

Pay Range Maximum:

Other Compensation:

Benefits:

Shift:

Temporary or Regular?

FTE (Full-Time Equivalent):

Union/Bargaining Unit:

About the UW 

Working at the University of Washington provides a unique opportunity to change lives – on our campuses, in our state and around the world.  

UW employees bring their boundless energy, creative problem-solving skills and dedication to building stronger minds and a healthier world. In return, they enjoy outstanding benefits, opportunities for professional growth and the chance to work in an environment known for its diversity, intellectual excitement, artistic pursuits and natural beauty. 

Our Commitment 

The University of Washington is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful and welcoming community for all. As an equal opportunity employer, the University considers applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, citizenship, sex, pregnancy, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, disability, or veteran status consistent with UW Executive Order No. 81.

To request disability accommodation in the application process, contact the Disability Services Office at 206-543-6450 or dso@uw.edu. 

Applicants considered for this position will be required to disclose if they are the subject of any substantiated findings or current investigations related to sexual misconduct at their current employment and past employment. Disclosure is required under Washington state law.