1

Enzyme Purification Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Biochemistry Tutor

Nashville, TN · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

... enzyme inhibition mechanisms, and bioenergetics calculations. Guides students through Lineweaver-Burk plot analysis, free energy calculations, protein purification strategies, and interpreting gel ...

Biochemistry Tutor

Kingsport, TN · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

... enzyme inhibition mechanisms, and bioenergetics calculations. Guides students through Lineweaver-Burk plot analysis, free energy calculations, protein purification strategies, and interpreting gel ...

Biochemistry Tutor

Memphis, TN · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

... enzyme inhibition mechanisms, and bioenergetics calculations. Guides students through Lineweaver-Burk plot analysis, free energy calculations, protein purification strategies, and interpreting gel ...

... enzyme inhibition mechanisms, and bioenergetics calculations. Guides students through Lineweaver-Burk plot analysis, free energy calculations, protein purification strategies, and interpreting gel ...

Biochemistry Tutor

Knoxville, TN · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

... enzyme inhibition mechanisms, and bioenergetics calculations. Guides students through Lineweaver-Burk plot analysis, free energy calculations, protein purification strategies, and interpreting gel ...

Biochemistry Tutor

Chattanooga, TN · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

... enzyme inhibition mechanisms, and bioenergetics calculations. Guides students through Lineweaver-Burk plot analysis, free energy calculations, protein purification strategies, and interpreting gel ...

Enzyme Purification information

What is enzyme purification?

Enzyme purification is the process of isolating a specific enzyme from a complex mixture, such as a cell extract, to obtain it in a highly pure form. This typically involves a series of steps like centrifugation, filtration, precipitation, and chromatography to separate the enzyme from other proteins and contaminants. Purified enzymes are essential for research, industrial applications, and the development of diagnostic or therapeutic products.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an enzyme purification specialist?

To thrive as an Enzyme Purification Specialist, you need a solid background in biochemistry or molecular biology, experience with protein purification techniques, and often a relevant bachelor's or advanced degree. Familiarity with chromatography systems (such as HPLC or FPLC), spectrophotometers, and analytical software is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are soft skills that help ensure accuracy and collaboration. These skills are crucial for producing high-purity enzymes efficiently, ensuring reproducible results, and supporting research or manufacturing objectives.

What are some common challenges faced in enzyme purification roles, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in enzyme purification often encounter challenges such as maintaining enzyme stability during extraction and purification, optimizing yield without compromising activity, and troubleshooting issues like protein aggregation or contamination. These challenges can be addressed by staying current with the latest techniques, regularly calibrating equipment, and collaborating closely with analytical and upstream processing teams. Effective communication and documentation are also crucial for resolving issues quickly and ensuring reproducibility in large-scale or GMP environments.

What is the difference between Enzyme Purification vs Protein Purification?

AspectEnzyme PurificationProtein Purification
CredentialsBiochemist, Molecular BiologistBiochemist, Molecular Biologist
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, biotech companiesLaboratories, biotech companies
Industry UsageEnzyme isolation for research and industrial useGeneral protein isolation for various applications
FocusIsolating and characterizing specific enzymesIsolating and analyzing diverse proteins

Enzyme Purification specifically involves isolating enzymes for research or industrial purposes, focusing on their activity and function. Protein Purification covers a broader range of proteins, including enzymes, structural proteins, and antibodies. While both roles require similar skills and work environments, enzyme purification emphasizes enzyme activity assays, whereas protein purification involves diverse techniques for different protein types.

What are popular job titles related to Enzyme Purification jobs in Tennessee?

For Enzyme Purification jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Enzyme Purification jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Enzyme Purification job openings:

UT Student Assistant-Pharmaceutical Sciences

Memphis, TN • On-site

The University of Tennessee
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 1 - 5K employees

Part-time

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description


The Pharmacy Student Researcher provides support for ongoing research projects in the Hevener Laboratory, focusing on molecular biology, protein biochemistry, enzymology, and structural biology. Under direct supervision, the student will assist with experimental procedures such as molecular cloning, bacterial culture, protein expression and purification, enzyme assays, and related laboratory operations. Additional responsibilities include laboratory maintenance, preparation of reagents, documentation of results, and participation in laboratory meetings. This position is designed to offer pharmacy students meaningful exposure to biomedical research, strengthen foundational laboratory skills, and support the mission, vision, and values of the UTHSC College of Pharmacy.
Responsibilities
Laboratory Research (Primary Duties)
  • Assist in the planning and execution of experiments related to recombinant DNA, bacterial culture, protein purification, and enzyme characterization.
  • Prepare reagents, buffers, solutions, stock supplies, media, and other laboratory materials needed for experiments.
  • Maintain detailed records of procedures, data, and results, including scientific calculations, graphing, and basic statistical summaries.
  • Use and maintain laboratory instrumentation, which may include spectrophotometers, chromatography systems, centrifuges, thermocyclers, plate readers, pH meters, biosafety hoods, incubators, gel documentation systems, and light microscopes.

Scientific Communication & Engagement
  • Prepare figures or short summaries of results for internal lab meetings.
  • Attend and participate in weekly laboratory meetings, journal clubs, or collaborative sessions.
  • Conduct background literature searches relevant to assigned projects.

Laboratory Operations
  • Assist in maintaining laboratory supplies and inventory; notify the supervisor when stock levels need replenishment.
  • Help maintain a clean and organized laboratory space consistent with safety and compliance standards.
  • Follow standard operating procedures for equipment handling, biological safety, and chemical hygiene.

Qualifications
Required
  • Enrollment as a Pharmacy (PharmD) student at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center.
  • Interest in biomedical, biochemical, or pharmaceutical sciences.

Preferred
  • Prior laboratory coursework or lab experience in biology, chemistry, microbiology, or related fields.
  • Familiarity with basic laboratory techniques (pipetting, solution preparation, sterile technique).

KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES:
  • Knowledge of basic scientific principles in biology, chemistry, or biochemistry consistent with entry-level laboratory coursework.
  • Skill in standard laboratory techniques (pipetting, measuring, solution prep).
  • Ability to follow written and verbal instructions accurately.
  • Ability to maintain clear, organized laboratory records.
  • Skill in reading, reviewing, and interpreting scientific literature at a fundamental level.
  • Ability to communicate effectively with laboratory personnel and other members of the research team.
  • Ability to manage time efficiently and complete tasks in an organized, timely manner.

SUPERVISION PROVIDED BY THIS POSITION:
Supervision Received:
  • Work is closely monitored by the supervisor (Dr. Kirk Hevener or designated senior lab personnel). Tasks follow established protocols and procedures.

Supervision Provided:
  • This position does not include supervisory responsibilities, but the student may assist in mentoring visiting students on basic lab tasks if directed.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS/CONDITIONS:
  • Standing, walking, talking, hearing, and use of hands for laboratory tasks are frequently required.
  • Work may involve a typical laboratory environment, including exposure to:
    • biohazardous materials (BSL 1 and BSL 2 organisms)
    • laboratory chemicals
    • mechanical equipment
  • Personal protective equipment (PPE) such as lab coat, safety glasses, and gloves is required.
  • No heavy lifting beyond 25 lbs is expected.

WORK SCHEDULE:
  • 4 to 8 hours per week during academic semesters.
  • 20 hours per week during summers.
  • First shift, flexible scheduling based on class obligations.
  • Occasional extended hours may be permitted for experiments requiring time-dependent steps (optional, not required).

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
This position is designed to support student professional development and provide a hands-on research experience contributing to ongoing projects within the Hevener Lab. Students may have opportunities to contribute to abstracts, posters, or publications if their work supports such outcomes.