Research Scientist, Biochemistry

This is a 2-year fixed term position, with possible extension based on performance and budget.

Unit Description

Sarafan ChEM-H is an interdisciplinary institute focused on connecting Chemistry, Engineering, and Medicine for Human Health. The institute was founded as a joint venture of the Schools of Medicine, Engineering, and Humanities and Sciences. The proximity of world-class biologists, chemists, engineers, and clinicians at Stanford presents a unique opportunity to study human biology at a molecular level, to translate this knowledge into groundbreaking products and services that promote healthy living, and to educate a new cadre of “physician-scientist-engineers” who will lead a rapidly evolving industry.

Sarafan ChEM-H recently launched the Functional Protein Observatory, a new initiative aimed at developing large datasets of multidimensional quantitative data describing protein function to inform future AI models for protein function prediction. Directed by Dr. Polly Fordyce, the initiative will leverage a suite of high-throughput technologies developed in the Fordyce lab, including hydrogel beads and array-based microfluidic devices, to systematically measure parameters such as expression, binding, specificity, stability, and catalytic efficiency  of proteins of interest. Data generated will be used to develop large databases for use in the evaluation of protein function prediction algorithms.

Our VPDoR Diversity Journey:

• We create a hub of innovation through the power of diversity of disciplines and people.
• We provide equitable access and opportunity to all members of the community in order to do their best work, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
• We listen to and value all colleagues who bring diverse perspectives to the advancement and development of a respectful community. 
• We promote a culture of belonging, equity, and safety.
• We embed these values in excellence of education, research, and operation.

Position Summary

Sarafan ChEM-H is seeking a highly motivated scientist to serve as the Research Scientist, Biochemistry, who will serve as a key member of the Functional Protein Observatory team. The Research Scientist will report to the faculty Director of the Functional Protein Observatory. The Research Scientist will be responsible for testing, validating, refining, and applying high-throughput platforms to measure protein function across libraries. The successful candidate will be an efficient, thorough, and detail-oriented scientist with training in protein biochemistry, molecular biology, and analysis of large datasets. They will be comfortable learning new technologies, excited to develop new skillsets, and driven by a desire to contribute to a defined vision.

Distribution of Responsibilities:

• Approximately 20% time will be spent on biochemical assay validation and molecular biology. This will include cloning, site-directed mutagenesis, and analytical techniques (SDS-PAGE, western blot) to verify the success of protein expression or labeling experiments.
• Approximately 20% time will be spent on microfluidic device operation and fabrication of materials. This will include manufacturally spectrally-encoded beans using microfluidic devices, initially under the guidance of device experts and later independently. 
• Approximately 30% time will be spent conducting high-throughput functional assays. This will include executing large-scale screens using spectrally-encoded beads to measure binding, specificity, stability, and related parameters. 
• Approximately 10% time will be spent on computational analysis and data interpretation, which will include processing next-generation sequencing and flow cytometry data and analyzing raw experimental data to assess data quality and validate workflows.
• Approximately 10% time will be spent on process development and documentation. This will include developing rigorous, detailed, and optimized SOPs for novel workflows for both in-house and external team members that limits experimental variability and ensures the generation of robust, reliable datasets.
• Approximately 10% time will be spent mentoring and collaborating with other researchers, bioinformaticians, and engineers within the Observatory and other tasks as assigned.

General Duties:

• Apply scientific and / or technical skills and functional knowledge to conduct experiments generating large amounts of data related to protein function
• Independently run, monitor, and troubleshoot molecular biology and biochemical assays
• Quickly learn new technical skills and adopt new technologies 
• Document and critically review experimental approaches when necessary, develop best-practice SOPs, and present experimental data in a timely manner.
• Train and mentor, when needed, junior staff and students on established protocols and technologies.