Research Scientist Assistant (Temporary)

Job Title

Research Scientist Assistant (Temporary)

Overview

As a UW employee, you have a unique opportunity to change lives on our campuses, in our state and around the world. UW employees offer their boundless energy, creative problem-solving skills, and dedication to build stronger minds and a healthier world. The Department of Global Health at the University of Washington is seeking a highly motivated individual for a Temporary Research Scientist Assistant. This position will contribute to ongoing research aimed at enhancing diagnostics for sexually transmitted infections, conducting phenotypic and genotypic surveillance of antimicrobial resistance in Neisseria gonorrhoeae, investigating commensal bacteria as potential reservoirs of antimicrobial resistance transferable to Neisseria gonorrhoeae, and investigating host-pathogen interactions underlying gonococcal infections. The position is funded for six months, with possible extension up to three additional months.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Characterization of antimicrobial resistance profiles in Neisseria gonorrhoeae and other clinically important bacterial species
• Conduct bacterial culture and identification using MALDI-TOF and antimicrobial susceptibility testing
• Culture Neisseria gonorrhoeae and perform susceptibility testing by agar dilution and Etest
• Perform species confirmatory tests for Neisseria gonorrhoeae and other species
• Establish models of Neisseria gonorrhoeae infection
• Molecular detection and characterization of STI pathogens using the Hologic Panther System
• Perform PCR, Real-time PCR, qPCR, gel electrophoresis, and nucleic acid amplification tests
• Detect Treponema pallidum from various clinical specimens
• Real-time PCR assays for resistance markers in Neisseria gonorrhoeae and other STI pathogens
• Prepare high molecular weight genomic DNA for Next Generation Sequencing
• Execute standard protocols for molecular characterization of antimicrobial resistance determinants
• Participate in diagnostic test validation and optimization
• Laboratory research support, data analysis, quality assurance and compliance

Minimum Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Microbiology or related field and < 1 year of relevant experience
• Equivalent education and/or experience may substitute for minimum qualifications where allowed

Desired Qualifications

• Excellent molecular biology laboratory skills and research experience
• Willingness to train 3–6 weeks on antimicrobial susceptibility testing and participate in proficiency testing
• Working knowledge of general lab procedures and protocols
• Ability to work independently and communicate progress effectively
• Strong organization and meticulous record-keeping
• Experience with Gram-stain, microscopy, qPCR, nucleic acid amplification testing, cell culture and related techniques
• Experience with PCR, sequencing, and GLP practices
• Experience in clinical or research environments and familiarity with antimicrobial susceptibility testing methods

Conditions of Employment

• Critical/essential staff designation; may be required to report to work in inclement weather

About The Department

The Department of Global Health was established in 2007 to bridge Medicine and Public Health. It focuses on health inequities and collaborates globally with a diverse workforce across UW schools and partners. The department supports diversity and inclusion and has a large international footprint.

Compensation, Benefits and Position Details

• Pay Range Minimum: $51,000 annual
• Pay Range Maximum: $55,692 annual
• Benefits: Information at
• Shift: First Shift
• Temporary position
• FTE: 100%
• Union/Bargaining Unit: Not Applicable

Equal Opportunity

The University of Washington is an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information. Disability accommodation requests can be directed to the Disability Services Office at or Applicants may be asked to disclose findings related to sexual misconduct as required by Washington state law.

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