Research Assistant

Berkeley Lab’s (LBNL ) Biological Systems and Engineering (BSE ) Division has an opening for a Research Assistant to join Principal Investigator (PI) Dr. Taek Soon Lee at the Joint BioEnergy Institute (JBEI ).
In this role, you will work on a project that seeks to address the important and challenging task of engineering yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) for biofuel production. You will assist in engineering yeast strains that produce advanced biofuels by applying synthetic biology tools to improve precursor supplies and pathway optimization for future scaled-up applications.

This position has an anticipated start date of February 1, 2024.

What You Will Do:

• Assist with DNA design, manipulation, and cloning.
• Assist with DNA sequence analysis. 
• Assist with PCR and cloning. 
• Assist with functional expression of candidate genes in yeast.
• Assist with growing, manipulating, and archiving E. coli and yeast cultures.
• Assist with metabolite sample preparation for chromatographic analysis including liquid chromatography (LC) and gas chromatography (GC).

What is Required:

• A Bachelor’s Degree (or equivalent knowledge/training) in Biological Sciences or a related discipline and experience applying molecular biology research techniques or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Familiarity with recent cloning methods including Gibson Assembly.
• Familiarity with preparing samples for analytical measurements and experience with gas chromatography (GC).
• Strong oral and written communication skills including the ability to organize, manage, and document accurate records.
• Demonstrated interpersonal skills including the ability to work in a diverse and collaborative interdisciplinary team environment.

Desired Qualifications:

• Experience with PCR, DNA sequence analysis, gene cloning and expression, genetic manipulation, and cultivation of E. coli and yeast.

Notes:

• For full consideration, please apply by January 26, 2024.
• This is a temporary 100% time, non-exempt from overtime pay (hourly paid), limited appointment that will operate Monday-Friday for 5.5 months that cannot exceed 900 hours.
• This position is represented by a union for collective bargaining purposes.
• This position is expected to pay $21.79 – $26.75 per hour for job code 588.1, which fits within the full salary range of $21.79 – $31.69 per hour. Salary for this position will be commensurate with the final candidate’s qualification and experience, including skills, knowledge, relevant education, certifications, plus also aligned with the internal peer group. 
• This position may be subject to a background check. Any convictions will be evaluated to determine if they directly relate to the responsibilities and requirements of the position. Having a conviction history will not automatically disqualify an applicant from being considered for employment.
• Work will be primarily performed onsite at the Joint BioEnergy Institute (JBEI) / Emeryville Station East (ESE) — Bldg. 978, 5885 Hollis Street Emeryville, CA 94608.
• This position is not eligible for relocation assistance.
• This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship.

Learn About Us:

Berkeley Lab (LBNL) addresses the world’s most urgent scientific challenges by advancing sustainable energy, protecting human health, creating new materials, and revealing the origin and fate of the universe. Founded in 1931, Berkeley Lab’s scientific expertise has been recognized with 16 Nobel prizes. The University of California manages Berkeley Lab for the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Science.

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Berkeley Lab is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer. We heartily welcome applications from women, minorities, veterans, and all who would contribute to the Lab’s mission of leading scientific discovery, inclusion, and professionalism. In support of our diverse global community, all qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, or protected veteran status. 

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