Assistant Project Scientist

The UCLA Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry (www.chemistry.ucla.edu) is seeking outstanding and highly qualified candidates for Assistant Project Scientist.

The assistant project scientist will be a highly experienced scientist in the laboratory of Dr. Jose Rodriguez. The scientist will be an expert in the field of structural biology and protein design, particularly in the area of single particle cryoEM using innovative imaging scaffolds. The position involves the fully independent planning, design and execution of a wide array of molecular, biochemical and structural biology experiments in the area of structural biology and biomolecular design and evaluation. The position will also involve the training of postdoctoral, graduate and undergraduate students in the methods and analyses used by the Rodriguez lab, bridging both computational, theoretical and experimental aspects of structure determination. The position will also require a high degree of expertise in the use of instruments for structure determination, including x-ray diffractometers and electron microscopes. The scientist will therefore require mastery of the full spectrum of structural biology techniques and applications used in the Rodriguez laboratory. The scientist will work in coordination with Dr. Rodriguez but will be able to independently perform all laboratory and training tasks, procure financial support for laboratory studies, prepare reports, figures and manuscripts, prepare protocols, training and administrative documents, and interface with campus partners to help ensure the success of the laboratory. The position requires a Ph.D. in Biophysics, Structural Biology or related field, and at least 5 years of postdoctoral experience in advanced cryoEM techniques.

QUALIFICATIONS

Basic qualifications (required at the time of application)
Perform the full range of structural biology techniques required for x-ray and EM analysis and ab initio molecular structure determination of exceedingly challenging macromolecular targets.
Perform the full range of molecular biology and biochemistry techniques required for structural analysis of recombinant proteins.
Independently design and plan successful experiments.
Work independently and effectively on several projects and administrative tasks simultaneously.
Independently train and supervise lab personnel.
Collaborate effectively and simultaneously with other laboratories.
Prepare manuscripts, reports, analyses, figures and proposals.
Manage, maintain and procure supplies, equipment and resources, particularly equipment integral for structural analyses.
Maintain and manage safety protocols, practices, training and documentation in the laboratory.
Maintain leadership in the field of structural biology through high impact publications.