Research Associate - Mellon College of Science - Biological Sciences

Carnegie Mellon University is a private, global research university that stands among the world’s most renowned education institutions. With ground-breaking brain science, path-breaking performances, creative start-ups, big data, big ambitions, hands-on learning, and a whole lot of robots, CMU doesn’t imagine the future, we invent it. If you’re passionate about joining a community that challenges the curious to deliver work that matters, your journey starts here!

The Mellon College of Science (MCS) is home to four departments and many programs and research centers that cross disciplines. We approach scientific problems from fresh angles using creative interdisciplinary approaches while drawing on our departmental strengths in the core sciences. MCS faculty members are nationally and internationally recognized for their research in a variety of fields, including polymer science, cosmology, mathematical finance, and neuroscience.

The Zhao Biophotonics Lab within our Biological Sciences department is seeking a motivated Research Associate to support two active molecular biology projects: (1) engineering and screening fluorescent proteins with improved photostability for advanced imaging applications, and (2) developing a single-component capsid-based gene delivery system optimized for scalable production in E. coli. The successful candidate will work closely with graduate students, postdoctoral researchers, and the PI to design experiments, execute molecular biology protocols, and analyze data. This is a full-time, fixed-term staff position based at the Pittsburgh campus.

Core Responsibilities

• Design, clone, express, and purify fluorescent protein variants in bacterial and mammalian expression systems
• Screen fluorescent protein libraries for improved photostability using high-throughput fluorescence microscopy and plate-reader assays
• Engineer and characterize single-component capsid constructs for gene delivery; optimize yield and solubility in E. coli
• Perform standard molecular biology techniques: PCR, site-directed mutagenesis, Gibson assembly, transformation, DNA/protein gel electrophoresis
• Maintain detailed electronic lab notebooks; analyze imaging and biochemical data using standard software (ImageJ, Python, MATLAB as applicable)
• Assist with expansion microscopy (Magnify) experiments including sample preparation, immunostaining, and confocal imaging
• Contribute to preparation of figures, reports, and manuscript sections as directed
• Maintain lab equipment, reagent stocks, and plasmid/cell line inventories

Adaptability, excellence, and passion are vital qualities within Carnegie Mellon University.  We are in search of a team member who can effectively interact with a varied population of internal and external partners at a high level of integrity. We are looking for someone who shares our values and who will support the mission of the university through their work.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Bioengineering, or a related field
• Hands-on experience with standard molecular biology techniques (cloning, PCR, protein expression)
• Familiarity with fluorescence microscopy and/or fluorescent protein biology
• Strong attention to detail; ability to maintain thorough laboratory records
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced research environment
• A combination of education and proven experience from which comparable knowledge is demonstrated may be considered.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with fluorescent protein engineering or directed evolution
• Experience with viral capsid proteins, VLPs, or gene delivery systems
• Familiarity with E. coli protein expression and purification (IPTG induction, affinity chromatography)
• Experience with confocal or widefield fluorescence imaging and quantitative image analysis
• Proficiency in Python, MATLAB, or R for data analysis and visualization
• Prior experience in an academic research lab; authorship on publications or preprints is a plus

Requirements:

• Successful completion of a pre-employment background check

Joining the CMU team opens the door to an array of exceptional benefits.

Benefits eligible employees enjoy a wide array of benefits including comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance as well as a generous retirement savings program with employer contributions. Unlock your potential with tuition benefits, take well-deserved breaks with ample paid time off and observed holidays, and rest easy with life and accidental death and disability insurance. 

Additional perks include a free Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus pass, access to our Family Concierge Team to help navigate childcare needs, fitness center access, and much more!

For a comprehensive overview of the benefits available, explore our Benefits page.

At Carnegie Mellon, we value the whole package when extending offers of employment. Beyond credentials, we evaluate the role and responsibilities, your valuable work experience, and the knowledge gained through education and training. We appreciate your unique skills and the perspective you bring. Your journey with us is about more than just a job; it’s about finding the perfect fit for your professional growth and personal aspirations.

Are you interested in an exciting opportunity with an exceptional organization?! Apply today!

Location

Pittsburgh, PA

Job Function

Researchers

Position Type

Staff – Fixed Term (Fixed Term)

Full Time/Part time

Full time

Pay Basis

Hourly

More Information: