Sr. Research Associate

Overview

Posting Number: S14659P

Working Title:

Sr. Research Associate

Department: VPR-Complex Carbohyd Rsch Ctr

Location of Vacancy:
Athens Area

Advertised Salary:
Commensurate with experience

Open until filled:
Yes

Proposed Starting Date: 07/01/2026

Full/Part time:
Full Time

Employment Type:

Employee

Benefits Eligibility:
Benefits Eligible

Normal schedule is Monday – Friday 8am – 5pm but hours and days could vary based on research.

The Weiss Lab at The University of Georgia’s Complex Carbohydrate Research Center is looking to recruit a motivated Senior Research Scientist to work on research projects focusing on the regulation of glycosaminoglycan biosynthesis in human diseases. The role involves developing genomic and chemical biology tools to investigate the regulatory mechanisms of glycosylation.

Generating and characterizing CRISPR-mediated knock-out and knock-in cell lines for downstream screening assays and analysis of glycosylation pathways

• Lead the design, execution, and optimization of CRISPR/Cas9-based genome engineering strategies, including knock-out, knock-in, and endogenous tagging approaches in mammalian cell lines.
• Independently design guide RNAs, donor templates, and cloning strategies for precise genome editing of glycosylation-related genes and pathways.
• Oversee and execute clonal isolation, genotyping, and molecular validation of edited cell lines using PCR, sequencing, immunoblotting, and functional assays.
• Develop and implement quality control workflows to ensure genetic integrity, reproducibility, and functional validation of engineered cell lines.
• Train and mentor graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, and technical staff in CRISPR genome editing methodologies and best practices.
• Serve as a technical and intellectual lead for complex genome engineering projects that support multiple ongoing research initiatives in the laboratory.

Developing high-throughput screening methods to investigate the regulation of glycosylation in mammalian cell lines

• Independently develop, optimize, and implement high-throughput, cell-based screening assays to interrogate glycosylation pathways and regulatory mechanisms.
• Design experimental pipelines integrating genome editing, phenotypic screening, and downstream biochemical and molecular analyses.
• Assay development, including optimization of reagents, detection methods, controls, and statistical rigor to ensure robust, reproducible datasets.
• Analyze and interpret genomic screening data and provide scientific direction on follow-up experiments and prioritization of targets.
• Supervise and coordinate screening-related efforts involving students and collaborators, ensuring proper training, execution, and documentation.
• Contribute intellectual leadership in experimental design and strategy development for grant-supported research projects.

Prepare written and oral communication of research output. Ordering chemicals and consumables for the experiments as needed. Lab related activities, including meetings and collaborative projects

• Lead preparation of figures, written summaries, and experimental documentation for manuscripts, grant applications, and progress reports.
• Present research findings in lab meetings, collaborative meetings, and internal and external scientific forums.
• Coordinate ordering, inventory management, and procurement of specialized reagents and consumables critical to advanced genome engineering and screening workflows.
• Participate in and help lead lab meetings, project planning discussions, and collaborative research initiatives.
• Provide mentorship and day-to-day scientific guidance to trainees, assisting with experimental troubleshooting, project development, and professional development.

Master’s degree in a related field of science and 5 years of professional experience

PhD in biochemistry, genetics, cell biology or a related discipline.

Is driving a responsibility of this position?:
No

Is this a Position of Trust?:
Yes

Does this position have operation, access, or control of financial resources?:
No

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