The Department of Genome Sciences (GS) is part of the University of Washington School of Medicine and is comprised of 30 labs addressing leading edge questions in biology and medicine by developing and applying genome, proteomic and computational approaches. GS is making major contributions in the application of genomics and proteomics to understand the fundamentals of biology and to improve human health and wellbeing. GS is a collaborative department supported by very different academic disciplines. The department has gone through significant expansion since its beginning in 2001 with annual grant awards of $54.7M for FY22.

The Department of Genome Sciences at the University of Washington has an outstanding opportunity for a Postdoctoral Scholar. They develop and apply cutting-edge proteomics analyses to interrogate dynamic cellular systems using high-throughput mass spectrometry based analytical approaches. Projects include: dissecting host-pathogen landscapes, determining drug-protein interactions, building new methods for proteomics methods, and establishing informatics workflows to analyze diverse sets of integrated data. The successful candidate will develop projects, carry out experiments, examine large datasets, and present their work at national and international meetings.

Position Purpose

The Postdoctoral Scholar will lead multiple projects in the lab to improve and apply high-throughput proteomics to understand complex biological systems in a mass spectrometry lab.

Dimensions and Impact to the University

This Postdoctoral Scholar will work in a cutting-edge mass spectrometry laboratory whose work impacts other researchers worldwide. The research conducted will be reflected in even greater funding opportunities and enhancement of the reputation of the University as a biomedical research powerhouse.

Responsibilities

• Develop, design, and implement new proteomic methods towards understanding cellular signaling and intercellular interactions
• Actively prepare, write, and publish papers on your work.
• Present findings at departmental, institutional, national, and international meetings.
• Participate in research-related discussion during weekly lab meetings.
• Analyze peptides and proteins using mass spectrometers.
• Run and maintain high-end mass spectrometers.
• Perform sample preparation and isobaric sample barcoding for quantitative proteomics.
• Maintain prokaryotic/eukaryotic cell cultures and perform cell biological, genetic, and biochemical experiments.
• Maintain data, scripts, and software for publication and presentation.
• Execute data analysis using internal/external software (e.g. Web apps, Linux, Windows).
• Train and supervise research scientists, undergraduate and graduate students.
• Advise and collaborate with other members of the lab on related projects.
• Accurate record keeping and version control of all aspects of lab experiments.

Position Complexities
The position demands organization, commitment, the ability to work with others, the ability to maintain a laboratory notebook, and experience in laboratory protocols.

Diversity is a core value of University of Washington.  We believe the power of diversity enriches all of us by exposing us to a range of ways to understand and engage with the world, identify challenges, and to discover, design and deliver solutions.  More information on the group’s research can be found at www.schweppelab.org/. University of Washington Department of Genome Sciences (https://www.gs.washington.edu/) is ranked 5th in the nation for molecular biology and genetics and located near downtown Seattle.

Postdoctoral scholars are represented by UAW 4121 and are subject to the collective bargaining agreement, unless agreed exclusion criteria apply. For more information, please visit the University of Washington Labor Relations website.

This is a full-time position on an annual 12-month service period appointment.

The base salary range for this position will be $5,459 - $6,250 per month, commensurate with experience and qualifications, or as mandated by a U.S. Department of Labor prevailing wage determination.

Minimum Qualifications

• Ph.D. or foreign equivalent in Biochemistry, Chemistry, Biology, or related field.
• At least 2 years of experience in proteomics, proteomics sample preparation (e.g. HPLC separations), mass spectrometry technical development, or related work.
• Must be able to perform repetitive but delicate work with care and exact attention to procedural detail.
• Must be self-motivated with the ability to take initiative and work independently.
• Must have a strong grasp of current literature in their field and a willingness to continually stay up to date on modern proteomics and cell biology methods.
• Must be able to work in a team and have a willingness to collaborate in the lab and with external groups.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills and meticulous record-keeping skills.
• Strong organizational abilities.
• Basic computational and bioinformatic skills (R, Python, MS Word, MS Excel, Adobe Illustrator).

Equivalent education/experience will substitute for all minimum qualifications except when there are legal requirements, such as a license/certification/registration.

Desired Qualifications

• Experience with a programming or scripting language (e.g. R, Python, C#, C , etc.).
• Experience independently running a mass spectrometer.
• Experience with Orbitrap mass spectrometers.

Working Conditions

• Occasionally lifts and/or carries objects weighing up to 30 pounds.
• Occasionally stoops and bends.
• Occasionally reaches and grasps with arms and hands.

Screening of applicants will be considered until position is filled.  Applications must be submitted electronically through Interfolio.  

Applications should include: 

• Curriculum vitae
• Two letters of recommendation 
• One page personal statement highlighting research experience and career goals