The Meers Lab located in the Department of Biochemistry at Vanderbilt University is seeking a highly motivated and enthusiastic research technician who will have the opportunity to gain expertise in molecular biology and biochemistry. The labs primary focus is on discovering novel enzymes that can rearrange DNA with a particular emphasis on transposable elements. Our goal is not only to uncover the mechanisms by which transposase genes mobilize genetic information but also to harness these processes for biotechnological addition we investigate how life has repurposed these enzymes for host functions such as CRISPR (Meers et al. Nature 2023) and snoRNA-guided RNA modification (Vayesset & Meers et al. Nature Microbiology 2025). For further examples illustrating the scope of our research please see (edaveinyt et al. Science 2024; Wiegand et al. Nature 2024).

The Meers lab isa newly established research facility that is currently seeking a research technician who will be primarily responsible for conducting research with some time dedicated to maintaining the labs infrastructure. The research technician will work closely with Dr. Meers receiving direct mentorship in planning conducting and presenting research while also collaborating with other technicians graduate students and postdoctoral researchers. As a brand-new lab we are excited to build a collaborative and supportive atmosphere where people enjoy the science and feel part of the team. Overall this is an excellent opportunity for recent college graduates who are seeking to gain research experience before applying to graduate school or medical school.

KeyFunctionsandExpectedPerformances:

Assists in Research and Development:

• RNA DNA and protein extractions

• Cloning design synthesis of plasmid constructs

• qPCR

• Western blotting

• Protein biochemistry

• Microbial genetics and culture

• NGS sample preparation

• Functional genomics and proteomics

Performs general lab and administrative duties:

• Prepare buffers and reagents

• Order supplies

• Receive packages

• Other tasks as directed by supervisor

SupervisoryRelationships:

• No supervisory responsibilities

• The position reports administratively and functionally to the PI.

EducationandCertifications:

• A Bachelors degree in genetics molecular biology biochemistry or a related field from an accredited institution of higher education is necessary.

ExperienceandSkills:

• Ability to perform all basic calculations related to buffer composition (molarity dilution factor etc.) is necessary.

• Strong organizational and time-management skills are required

  • Including the ability to prioritize and manage parallel experiments and maintain accurate documentation.