The Department of Genetics is seeking an experimental or hybrid experimental/computational research associate in genomics (Life Science Research Professional 1) to join the Engreitz Laboratory to map the regulatory wiring of the human genome to discover genetic mechanisms of heart diseases. The Engreitz Lab is part of the Stanford University Department of Genetics and Children’s Heart Center.
Lab overview: DNA regulatory elements in the human genome, which harbor thousands of genetic risk variants for common and rare diseases and could reveal targets for therapeutics that aim to precisely tune cellular functions — if only we could map the complex regulatory wiring that connects 2 million regulatory elements with 21,000 genes in thousands of cell types in the human body. We have recently developed new approaches that could enable mapping this regulatory wiring at massive scale (see Fulco et al. Science 2016, Fulco et al. Nat Genet 2019, Nasser et al. Nature 2021). We invent new tools combining experimental and computational genomics, biochemistry, molecular biology, and human genetics to assemble regulatory maps of the human genome and uncover biological mechanisms of heart disease.
We are looking for creative and passionate people at any stage in their careers, including research scientists and research associates. Candidates will train to lead and design experimental/computational projects that push the boundaries of genomic technology and reveal the functions of genetic variants associated with human diseases.
Specific projects include: to develop CRISPR-based tools to map the functions of thousands of noncoding variants and enhancers; chart enhancer-promoter regulation in every cell type and state in the developing heart using single-cell CRISPR and epigenomic tools; understand enhancer-promoter biochemical specificity by synthetic DNA engineering of millions of enhancer-promoter combinations; and develop novel computational models to understand genetic regulation of heart disease by noncoding variants. For more information and recent work, see www.engreitzlab.org.
Because the fields of biology and genomics are becoming increasingly data-driven, we train experimentalists in the computational tools needed to process and analyze their own data, as desired.
The Engreitz Laboratory is a dynamic, interdisciplinary workplace that will provide unique access to cutting edge technologies and scientific thought, with the potential for widespread recognition of scientific contributions. We value a diversity of values, backgrounds, and approaches to solving problems.
The candidate for this position should have experience with standard molecular biology techniques and mammalian cell culture; a strong technical knowledge and experience with molecular biology; a high level of initiative and motivation, the ability to work independently and with a team; excellent communication, organization, and time management skills; and the ability to think creatively to solve problems.
In addition to submitting your application via the Stanford web portal, please email your CV and cover letter directly to Prof. Jesse Engreitz at engreitz@stanford.edu.
Duties include:
- Optimize and apply functional genomics technologies, including epigenomics, single-cell, and CRISPR-based assays in human cells and/or in vivo models of disease
- Evaluate and recommend new emerging technologies, approaches, and problems
- Work with team members to develop, design, and carry out experiments that are essential to the group’s collective success
- Interpret experimental results; document, summarize and present findings in individual and group meetings
- Consult with team leader on priorities, methods, and timelines
- Maintain a detailed organizational plan and record to ensure successful and timely completion of required tasks
- Contribute to generation of protocols, publications, and intellectual property
- Contribute to establishing laboratory protocols, setup, and standards for Engreitz Lab
*- Other duties may also be assigned.
DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
- Degree in biology or related field. Highly motivated candidates of all levels are encouraged to apply.
- 2+ years of experience in a research laboratory
- Experience with standard molecular biology techniques and mammalian cell culture
- Strong technical knowledge and experience with molecular biology
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE (REQUIRED):
Bachelor's degree in related scientific field.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (REQUIRED):
- General understanding of scientific principles. Demonstrated performance to use knowledge and skills when needed.
- Demonstrated ability to apply theoretical knowledge of science principals to problem solve work.
- Ability to maintain detailed records of experiments and outcomes.
- General computer skills and ability to quickly learn and master computer programs, databases, and scientific applications.
- Ability to work under deadlines with general guidance.
- Excellent organizational skills and demonstrated ability to accurately complete detailed work.
CERTIFICATIONS & LICENSES:
None.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS*:
- Frequently stand, walk, twist, bend, stoop, squat, grasp lightly, use fine manipulation, grasp forcefully, perform desk-based computer tasks, use telephone, write by hand, lift, carry, push and pull objects weighing over 40 pounds.
- Occasionally sit, kneel, crawl, reach and work above shoulders, sort and file paperwork or parts.
- Rarely climb, scrub, sweep, mop, chop and mix or operate hand and foot controls.
- Must have correctible vision to perform duties of the job.
- Ability to bend, squat, kneel, stand, reach above shoulder level, and move on hard surfaces for up to eight hours.
- Ability to lift heavy objects weighing up to 50 pounds.
- Ability to work in a dusty, dirty, and odorous environment.
- Position may require repetitive motion.
*- Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodation to any employee with a disability who requires accommodation to perform the essential functions of his or her job.
WORKING CONDITIONS:
- May require working in close proximity to blood borne pathogens.
- May require work in an environment where animals are used for teaching and research.
- Position may at times require the employee to work with or be in areas where hazardous materials and/or infectious diseases are present.
- Employee must perform tasks that require the use of personal protective equipment, such as safety glasses and shoes, protective clothing and gloves, and possibly a respirator.
- May require extended or unusual work hours based on research requirements and business needs.
WORK STANDARDS (from JDL):
- Interpersonal Skills: Demonstrates the ability to work well with Stanford colleagues and clients and with external organizations.
- Promote Culture of Safety: Demonstrates commitment to personal responsibility and value for safety; communicates safety concerns; uses and promotes safe behaviors bases on training and lessons learned.
- Subject to and expected to comply with all applicable University policies and procedures, including but not limited to the personnel policies and other policies found in the University’s Administrative Guide.
