Research Assistant – Food Protein Biophysics Lab

About the role

This position provides technical support to the Food Protein Biophysics Lab for a research project on the common potato (Solanum tuberosum) plant‑specific insert (StPSI). The Research Assistant reports to the Principal Investigator, Dr. Rickey Y. Yada, and Dr. Derek Dee, and works closely with the research associate on microbiological challenge testing, in‑vitro structure comparison and in‑silico analysis.

Key responsibilities

• Express and purify StPSI proteins using established protocols for antifungal assays, circular dichroism and NMR, escalating non‑routine issues to the Research Associate.
• Assist with data analysis and draft manuscripts for publication.
• Provide regular updates to collaborators and present findings at laboratory meetings.
• Perform additional duties as required to support the project.

Required profile

• High school graduation with at least two years of related experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Demonstrated commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion, and willingness to respect diverse perspectives.

Required skills

• Protein expression and purification.
• Antifungal assay execution.
• Circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy.
• Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) techniques.
• Data analysis and documentation.