Research Scientist/Engineer I (RSE1) — RNA Polymerase Engineering & Functional Assays 

We are hiring an early-career experimental scientist to help build optogenetically controlled RNA polymerases and related protein-binder systems. You will work on molecular cloning, protein expression/purification, in vitro functional assays, optogenetic characterization, sequencing-linked readouts, and phage-display workflows that support next-generation synthetic biology and molecular engineering projects.

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.

Priority review begins: April 15, 2026 (open until filled).

About the Gu Lab

The Gu Lab at the University of Washington develops new molecular technologies at the interface of synthetic biology, protein engineering, sequencing, and spatial biology. Current lab directions include programmable RNA/DNA polymerase systems, protein sensors, large-library screening, and sequencing-based functional readouts.

The role

This is a staff Research Scientist/Engineer I (RSE1) position focused on hands-on experimental work. You will work closely with Dr. Liangcai Gu and lab members to build and test engineered polymerases and protein components, establish robust in vitro assays, and generate reproducible datasets that support active and near-term sponsored research.

This role is a strong fit for someone with a background in biochemistry, molecular biology, bioengineering, synthetic biology, or chemical biology who enjoys both bench work and method development.

Example projects (examples)

• Construct and test engineered T7 RNA polymerase variants and polymerase–sensor fusion constructs

• Express and purify RNA polymerases, protein binders, and optogenetic domains

• Develop cell-free transcription assays to quantify light-dependent polymerase behavior

• Run fluorescence-based and modified-base incorporation assays (for example, fluorescently labeled or biotinylated nucleotide analogs)

• Build and optimize optogenetic protein assays for dark/light-state characterization, dose response, and recovery kinetics

• Support phage display workflows for binder discovery, enrichment, and validation

• Prepare sequencing-ready samples for sequencing-linked functional readouts and assist with sample QC/documentation

What you’ll do

• Perform molecular cloning and construct generation for engineered polymerases, binders, and related protein components

• Carry out protein expression, purification, and QC (for example, bacterial expression, affinity purification, gel-based QC, yield tracking)

• Develop and execute in vitro transcription assays and related biochemical/fluorescence assays

• Perform optogenetic characterization, including light/dark comparisons, dose-response measurements, and kinetic assays

• Help establish and run phage-display selection / screening workflows and downstream clone validation

• Prepare samples for sequencing-based readouts and maintain organized experimental metadata and sample tracking

• Document protocols, generate reproducible SOPs, and contribute to method development across projects

• Work closely with the PI and lab members to interpret results and refine experimental priorities

Required qualifications

• BS or MS in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Bioengineering, Chemical Biology, Synthetic Biology, or a closely related field (or equivalent experience)

• Hands-on experience with molecular cloning and standard molecular biology techniques

• Experience with protein expression and purification

• Experience with biochemical or functional assays and careful experimental documentation

• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple constructs/samples/workflows carefully

• Willingness to learn new assays and contribute to a collaborative research environment

Preferred qualifications

• Experience working with RNA polymerases, DNA polymerases, or nucleic acid enzymes

• Experience with phage display, yeast display, or binder/sensor screening workflows

• Familiarity with optogenetic proteins / photosensory domains

• Experience with fluorescence assays, plate-reader assays, gel-based nucleic acid readouts, or affinity-based detection methods

• Experience with in vitro transcription or enzymology-style assays

• Experience preparing samples for NGS or other sequencing-linked readouts

• Familiarity with FPLC or related protein purification workflows

• Basic data handling/plotting skills in Excel, Python, or R

What we offer

• Hands-on experience with cutting-edge polymerase engineering and synthetic biology technologies

• Real ownership of experimental workflows used for active research projects

• Mentorship and training in protein engineering, molecular assay development, and rigorous experimental practice

• Opportunities to contribute to manuscripts, figures, protocols, and method development (with co-authorship where appropriate)

• An inclusive, collaborative environment that values rigor, openness, and trainee development

Appointment details

• Location: Seattle, WA (University of Washington)

• Start date: Flexible (mutually agreed)

• International applicants are welcome; work authorization/visa sponsorship and appointment terms follow UW policy.

Compensation & benefits

Salary range: $55,000–$65,000/year (commensurate with qualifications) plus UW benefits.

How to apply

Email Dr. Liangcai Gu at gulc (at) uw.edu with subject line:

“RSE1 — Polymerase Engineering”

Please include:

1. CV or resume

2. A brief cover letter (≤1 page) describing your background, interests, and availability

3. A short summary of your relevant experimental experience (for example: cloning, purification, in vitro assays, phage display, sequencing prep)

4. Contact information for 2 references

Equal Opportunity

The University of Washington is an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates.