Senior Research Associate

Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory's Molecular Foundry Division is seeking a highly motivated Senior Research Associate to join the Center for Catalysis in Biomimetic Confinement (CCBC).

In this role, you will contribute to research on bacterial microcompartment (BMC) shells - from expression and purification to assembly and characterization - to understand self-assembly principles, engineer synthetic shells for catalytic cargo, and apply structural biology and biochemical techniques to study enzymatic activity inside and outside these compartments. You'll collaborate closely with CCBC scientists on basic and applied studies, assist with experimental design and data interpretation, and troubleshoot experiments. The role offers meaningful opportunities for scientific engagement and growth while working with limited independence.

What You Will Do:

• Perform expression, purification, and characterization of proteins/enzymes, protein complexes, including their self-assembly.
• Assist in the development of new research strategies to measure enzyme loading of shells and enzymatic function.
• Conduct and perform research under the clear guidance of the supervisor.
• Conduct preliminary analysis and maintain a detailed record of completed experiments to ensure the results can be duplicated.

Additional Responsibilities:

• Under direct supervision of the PI, assist in the preparation of manuscripts for publication.

What is Required:

• Minimum of 2 years of relevant experience in biochemistry, molecular biology, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience.
• Hands-on experience in at least one of: synthetic biology or bioengineering, protein design, high-throughput cloning and imaging, enzymology, or biophysical characterization of macromolecular complexes.
• Demonstrated knowledge in one of the following: synthetic biology, protein design, high-throughput approaches to cloning and imaging, or enzymology.
• Demonstrated knowledge in gene cloning, protein expression, purification, and characterization.
• Demonstrated knowledge in biophysical characterization of macromolecular complexes and Dynamic Light Scattering.
• Proven ability to prioritize and manage multiple projects in a fast-paced research environment.
• Strong organization and attention to detail.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Desired Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in biochemistry, molecular biology, or a related field.
• Experience performing enzyme assays.
• Knowledge of protein structural biology.
• Experience summarizing research findings for publications and presentations.

Notes:

• Application Deadline: For full consideration, please apply with a resume or curriculum vitae (CV) and a cover letter describing your interest by November 1, 2025.
• Appointment Type: This is a full time, non-exempt from overtime (hourly paid), 1 year (benefits eligible), Term appointment with the possibility of extension or conversion to Career appointment based upon satisfactory job performance, continuing availability of funds and ongoing operational needs.
• Salary Information: This position is represented by a union for collective bargaining purposes. This position is expected to pay $5,487 - $6,990/month, which fits within the full salary range of $5,487 - $8,492/month for the 381.2 job code. Salary for this position will be commensurate with the final candidate's qualification and experience, including skills, knowledge, relevant education, certifications, and aligned with the internal peer group. It is not typical for an individual to be offered a salary at or near the top of the range for a position.
• Background Check: 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.
• Work Modality: This position will be performed onsite at Lawrence Berkeley National Lab, located at 1 Cyclotron Road, Berkeley, CA 94720. Starting May 7, a REAL ID or other acceptable form of identification is required to access Berkeley Lab sites (for more information click here).

Want to learn more about working at Berkeley Lab? Please visit: careers.lbl.gov

Equal Employment Opportunity Employer: The foundation of Berkeley Lab is our Stewardship Values: Team Science, Service, Trust, Innovation, and Respect; and we strive to build community with these shared values and commitments. Berkeley Lab is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We heartily welcome applications from all who could contribute to the Lab's mission of leading scientific discovery, excellence, and professionalism. In support of our rich 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, protected veteran status, or other protected categories under State and Federal law.

Berkeley Lab is a University of California employer. It is the policy of the University of California to undertake affirmative action and anti-discrimination efforts, consistent with its obligations as a Federal and State contractor.

Misconduct Disclosure Requirement: As a condition of employment, the finalist will be required to disclose if they are subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct, are currently being investigated for misconduct, left a position during an investigation for alleged misconduct, or have filed an appeal with a previous employer.