Research Specialist

Job Profile:

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Max Pay – Depends on experience:

Apply before 11:59 PM Arizona time the day before the posted End Date.

Minimum Qualifications:

Job Description:

Position Salary Range:  $48,600 to $62,400 per year; DOE

We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Research Specialist to join our dynamic scientific team in the Biodesign Center for Applied Structural Discovery at Arizona State University, in Dr. Petra Fromme's laboratory. The ideal candidate will be responsible for conducting complex experiments, operating and maintaining advanced laboratory equipment, including bioreactors and supporting research projects. This role requires a strong technical background, excellent problem-solving skills, and the ability to train and mentor students.

Essential Duties:

Technical & Research Duties:

• Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot large-scale photobioreactor systems for Cyanobacteria cultivation, including programming growth parameters, monitoring cell health via spectroscopy, and performing harvests via tangential flow filtration and centrifugation.
• Prepare and purify proteins for structural and functional studies.
• Perform protein characterization using techniques such as SDS-PAGE.
• Execute ion exchange chromatography.
• Prepare and image protein crystallization experiments.
• Grow nanocrystals for advanced imaging techniques, including X-Ray crystallography.
• Harvest, freeze, and prepare crystals for synchrotron and X-ray free-electron laser (XFEL) experiments.
• Coordinate and conduct experiments at national and international beamtime facilities, including managing logistics, shipping, and travel justifications.

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General Laboratory Responsibilities:

• Perform routine maintenance, calibration, and repair of laboratory equipment (e.g., spectrophotometers, water filtration systems).
• Ensure compliance with Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) standards, particularly in hazardous waste handling.
• Communicate with vendor representatives to procure supplies and negotiate discounts.
• Prepare and deliver clear and concise presentations on research progress and troubleshooting at weekly team meetings.
• Contribute to the scientific community through seminar series presentations.

Desired Qualifications:

• Master's degree in Biochemistry, Biophysics, Molecular Biology, Bioengineering, or a related field.

• Previous hands-on experience with bioreactor operation, protein biochemistry, and chromatographic techniques.

• Previous experience working with Cyanobacteria Cell Culture.

• Strong mechanical aptitude for equipment maintenance and troubleshooting.

• Demonstrated excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.

Working Environment:

• Regular activities require ability to manage multiple tasks at one time, to be able to prioritize tasks; to manage conflict: to interact in a team environment: and to communicate effectively to exchange accurate information.  

• Activities are performed in an environmentally controlled office setting and laboratory subject to extended periods of being in a stationary position, operating computer and other office productivity machinery; required to move a moderate distance to perform work.  

• Frequently moves up to 25 pounds for various needs. 

• Regular activities require ability to quickly change priorities which may include and/or are subject to resolution of conflicts.  

• Ability to clearly communicate and exchange accurate information to perform essential duties. 

• May be required to wear personal protective equipment before entering laboratories such as lab coat, gloves, safety glasses, closed toe shoes and respirator.  

Department Statement:

Each year since 2016, ASU has been named the most innovative school in the nation, recognizing the university's culture of groundbreaking research and partnerships, as well as its commitment to helping students thrive in college and beyond. U.S. News and World Report has named ASU as the most innovative university all nine years the category has existed. 

ASU Knowledge Enterprise advances research, innovation, strategic partnerships, entrepreneurship, and international development. Our success arises from solutions-focused, interdisciplinary research; an entrepreneurial approach that is embedded in every school and department; and a commitment to transform society in a positive way. To learn more about how Knowledge Enterprise is a place for your career to grow, visit   

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• Cover letter
• Resume/CV

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