The research technician will work in Dr. Stephanie Wankowicz’s lab (wankowiczlab.com) within the Molecular Physiology and Biophysics department, Center for AI for Protein Dynamics, and Center for Structural Biology at Vanderbilt University. This position requires knowledge of basic laboratory procedures and experience in cloning, protein expression, and protein purification. The research technician will support ongoing research into protein structure, dynamics, and function. Additional responsibilities include laboratory maintenance. The Wankowicz lab (wankowiczlab.com) aims to elucidate the role of entropy in substrate specificity and catalysis, striving to provide a comprehensive thermodynamic understanding of enzyme function. The lab develops innovative computational structural modeling methods combined with biophysical measurements and machine learning to explore how proteins utilize entropy for binding. This position focuses on the wet lab aspects, employing X-ray crystallography and cryo-EM alongside biophysical techniques like surface plasmon resonance (SPR) and isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC) to study how different genetic variants or ligands impact protein dynamics and binding thermodynamics. Duties and Responsibilities + Manage, order, and maintain key lab reagents and equipment + Perform cloning and assembly of recombinant proteins + Execute expression and purification of recombinant proteins + Opportunity to learn structural biology or biophysical techniques + Opportunity to conduct independent research projects Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in a related field (biology, chemistry, physics, or related field) is necessary. Experience and Skills: + Experience in molecular biology and protein expression is strongly preferred + Experience in structural biology is preferred Commitment to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion At Vanderbilt University, we are intentional about and assume accountability for fostering advancement and respect for equity, diversity, and inclusion for all students, faculty, and staff. Our commitment to diversity makes us who we are. We have created a community that celebrates differences and lets individuality thrive. As part of this commitment, we actively value diversity in our workplace and learning environments as we seek to take advantage of the rich backgrounds and abilities of everyone. The diverse voices of Vanderbilt represent an invaluable resource for the University in its efforts to fulfill its mission and strive to be an example of excellence in higher education. Vanderbilt University is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer. Women, minorities, people with disabilities, and protected veterans are encouraged to apply.