Molecular Engineer Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

The University of Arizona College of Medicine - Phoenix (COM-P) is seeking a highly motivated candidate for the full‑time position of Researcher/Scientist III in Dr. Tobias Jakobi’s laboratory.

The lab focuses on the interplay of different RNA species and their underlying functional networks in the heart. The successful candidate will contribute to research and research‑related service in translational cardiovascular research.

Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

Perform aspects related to cellular and molecular biology research that include, but are not limited to:

Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) & Genomics

• Library Preparation: Execute end‑to‑end DNA and RNA library preparation workflows for both short‑read (Illumina) and long‑read (Oxford Nanopore) platforms.
• Sample Processing: Perform high‑quality RNA/DNA isolation from diverse and challenging biological matrices, including human and mouse tissues and plasma.
• Exosome Analytics: Lead the isolation of exosomes and subsequent purification of exosomal RNA for downstream transcriptomic analysis.

Molecular & Cellular Biology

• Gene Expression Analysis: Conduct precise quantification of nucleic acids using qRT‑PCR and protein expression via immunoblotting.
• Cellular Imaging: Perform immunocytofluorescence and comprehensive histological preparations, including tissue processing and advanced microscopy/imaging.

• Cell Culture Management: Maintain and manipulate primary cells and cell lines, including the culture, expansion, and directed differentiation of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs); execute complex molecular cloning strategies to support functional studies.

Genetic Engineering & Viral Vectors

• Construct Design: Engineer sophisticated DNA expression constructs for functional genomics studies.
• Viral Production: Oversee the development, packaging, and purification of adenoviral and adeno‑associated virus (AAV) vectors for efficient gene transfer and expression modulation.

Performs, and/or oversees data generation in experiments to ensure data integrity, quality control, and compliance.

Collects, analyzes, and interprets data. Prepares statistical and narrative reports.

Develops, plans, designs, and conducts advanced, multi‑disciplinary research. Reviews progress and evaluates results.

Formulates research methods, and develops or collaborates in the development of new techniques, methods, and equipment.

Recommends solutions for research methodology by interpreting principles and analyzing complex facts.

Develops and maintains detailed documentation of software and experiments, analyzing and writing of findings.

Assists with preparation of grants and manuscripts.

Prepares manuscripts for publication and presents research results to scientific conferences and other groups.

Attends regular group meetings; manages, maintains, and orders laboratory computational equipment; responds to administrative requests and procedures.

This job posting reflects the general nature and level of work expected of the selected candidate(s). It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities. The institution reserves the right to amend or update this description as organizational priorities and institutional needs evolve.

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent advanced learning attained through professional level experience required.
• Minimum of 5 years of relevant work experience, or equivalent combination of education and work experience.

• Bachelor’s degree in Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Biotechnology, or a related biomedical field; a Master’s degree is highly preferred.
• Minimum of 3+ years of hands‑on laboratory experience (post‑degree) demonstrating proficiency in the following areas:
• Advanced Molecular Engineering: Proven experience in the design, assembly, and validation of complex DNA expression constructs.
• Cellular Models & Functional Assays: Expertise in mammalian cell culture, specifically in utilizing cell lines or iPSC‑derived models to characterize gene expression and protein function.
• Quantitative Molecular Analytics: Technical mastery of qRT‑PCR (assay design and data analysis) and immunoblotting (Western blot) workflows.
• Imaging: Significant experience in immunocytofluorescence (ICF), including sample preparation, staining optimization, and the use of advanced fluorescence or confocal microscopy.

Greater Phoenix Area, Phoenix, AZ USA