Full-time Associate Positions – Dr. Randy King’s Lab

Harvard Medical School

Department of Cell Biology

Position Descriptions

The King Laboratory in the Cell Biology Department at Harvard Medical School is seeking two highly qualified individuals to join our research team as Associates focused on the problem of how protein degradation controls cell division, and how this process is perturbed in cancer. Our lab integrates cutting-edge approaches including live cell imaging, biochemistry, chemical biology and quantitative proteomics to understand how the activity of the ubiquitin-proteasome system is regulated during cell division.          

Each associate would have their own research project, collaborating with laboratory members and interacting directly with the PI, Dr. King, much like a graduate student, on a daily basis. These are ideal positions for students aiming to enter graduate and/or medical school programs following their tenure in the laboratory. We ask candidates to commit to no less than 2 years in the lab to allow for maximum experience and contributions.

General Qualifications

Successful candidates will have a BA or BS degree in the biological or chemical sciences (Biology, Chemistry, Cell Biology, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Genetics, Neuroscience, Immunology, Pharmacology). Candidates must be self-motivated, able to work independently as well as part of a team, have excellent communication and interpersonal skills, pay attention to detail, and be highly organized.

Position 1: Cell-Based Analysis of the Ubiquitin-Proteasome System in Cell Division

Working with the PI, this associate will design and execute experiments to study the role of protein degradation in the control of cell division. The associate will develop and maintain human cell lines that will be the focus of analysis. Long-term time-lapse microscopy will be used to analyze the effects of different chemical and genetic perturbations on cell division. The associate will also prepare cellular samples for analysis by quantitative mass spectrometry and western blotting. Specific qualifications include:

·     Laboratory experience with cell culture is essential

·     Experience with genetic manipulation of cultured cells (CRISPR-based gene editing, expression of reporter genes, or siRNA-mediated knockdown) is preferred

·     Experience with microscopy is preferred

·     Familiarity with molecular biology techiques (cloning, PCR) is preferred

Position 2: Biochemical and Mechanistic Analysis of the Ubiquitin-Proteasome System

Working with the PI, this associate will design and execute experiments to study the mechanism of action of ubiquitin ligases and deubiquitylating enzymes using Xenopus cell cycle extracts. The associate will prepare extracts from Xenopus eggs and express recombinant proteins for functional characterization. Experiments will be analyzed by autoradiography, western blotting and quantitative proteomics.

·     Experience with general biochemical lab techniques is essential (preparation of buffers, SDS-gel electrophoresis, western blotting)

·     Experience with expression and purification of recombinant proteins is preferred

·     Familiarity with molecular biology techiques (cloning, PCR) is preferred

Application Instructions

Commitment to Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging

Harvard University views equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging as the pathway to achieving inclusive excellence and fostering a campus culture where everyone can thrive. We strive to create a community that draws upon the widest possible pool of talent to unify excellence and diversity while fully embracing individuals from varied backgrounds, cultures, races, identities, life experiences, perspectives, beliefs, and values.

EEO Statement

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions, or any other characteristic protected by law.