Student Research Assistant

Berkeley’s Lab Molecular Biophysics and Integrated Bioimaging (MBIB) is looking for a Student Assistant to join the team. 

In this position, you will work on ​​the cultivation of cyanobacteria for the isolation of photosynthetic proteins and the preparation of purified photosynthetic proteins for the subsequent use in X-ray diffraction experiments. 

Important Notes:

• For full consideration please apply with the following application materials by September 18, 2024:
• Resume
• Cover Letter
• Position: This is a part time, non-exempt from overtime pay (hourly paid), 6-month Student appointment with the possibility of renewal based upon satisfactory job performance, continuing availability of funds and ongoing operational needs. You must be enrolled in a full time undergraduate academic program to qualify for this position.
• Hours: This position can operate up to 40 hours per week during the summer months and up to 20 hours per week during the academic school year (September-May). Hours/Days of the week are flexible however hours worked must be within standard business hours (M-F 8am to 5pm).
• Location: Work will be performed onsite at Lawrence Berkeley National Lab, 1 Cyclotron Road, Berkeley, CA.
• Transportation: Berkeley Lab Shuttles are available at no cost. 
• Salary: Salary for this position is predetermined based on student step rates.
• Undergrad Year 1 (Freshman) = $18.67 hourly
• Undergrad Year 2-3 (Sophomore & Junior) = $19.91 hourly
• Undergrad Year 4 (Senior) = $23.42 hourly
• 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.
• This position is not eligible for relocation assistance.

What You Will Do: 

• Cultivation and harvest of cyanobacteria cells from two photobioreactors (PBR) involving maintenance of the PBR and isolation of photosystem protein samples. 
• Assist with purifying photosystem II samples (in different intermediate states).
• Assist with qualitative analysis of protein sample activities and purity using different biochemical and biophysical techniques.  
• Work closely with senior members of the group to prepare samples for X-ray measurements at different light sources, including Advanced Light Source (ALS), Standford Synchrotron Radiation Laboratory (SSRL), and Linac Coherent Light Source (LCLS).
• Participate in group meetings and seminars.
• Work with other members of the group and collaborators under the direct supervision of senior members of the group and the Principal Investigator.
• Maintain an accurate and detailed scientific logbook of all experiments performed; ensure that others could duplicate results.

What is Required:

• Must be an undergraduate student enrolled in a full-time academic program with a background in Biochemistry, Chemistry or Biology.
• Ability to follow written laboratory protocols.
• Adhere to deadlines and safety protocols.
• Must be able and willing to learn and implement new experimental techniques.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and verbal and written communications skills.

What We Prefer:

• Experience in using equipment such as pH meters, centrifuge, ultracentrifuge, UV-vis spectrophotometer, etc.
• Experience in cell culture and protein purification techniques.

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.

Berkeley Lab is committed to Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Accountability (IDEA) and strives to continue building community with these shared values and commitments.

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. 

Equal Opportunity and IDEA Information Links:

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