Postdoctoral Research Associate I

at  University of Arizona

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• Skills sets based around the development of synthetic biology tools and tool kits
• Deep knowledge of plant stress physiology, molecular genetics, and cell biology
• Proficiency with gene expression techniques (RT-qPCR, RNA-seq)
• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively in casual interactions (within the lab, email) and formal presentations (seminars, manuscripts)
• Ability to read, interpret, and explain scientific literature
• Ability to work with others in the lab and to collaborate with colleagues at U of A and other campuses
• Demonstrated written and oral communication skills and an ability to interact and work collaboratively with others are essential qualifications.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Ph.D. in Plant Sciences, Molecular Biology, or equivalent field upon hire.
• Has first author, peer-reviewed, primary research publication(s)

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Ph.D. and proven experience in plant physiology and a strong background in molecular genetics and/or cell biology.
• Research experience in plant physiology, molecular genetics, metabolism, and biochemistry.
• Experience with the analysis of large data sets (e.g., RNA-Seq, proteomics, metabolomics).
• Experience growing and working with Arabidopsis thaliana, Nicotiana benthamiana, and tomato,
• Experience with microscopy (e.g., confocal microscopy, transmission electron microscopy)

DIVERSITY STATEMENT

At the University of Arizona, we value our inclusive climate because we know that diversity in experiences and perspectives is vital to advancing innovation, critical thinking, solving complex problems, and creating an inclusive academic community. As a Hispanic-serving institution, we translate these values into action by seeking individuals who have experience and expertise working with diverse students, colleagues, and constituencies. Because we seek a workforce with a wide range of perspectives and experiences, we provide equal employment opportunities to applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or genetic information. As an Employer of National Service, we also welcome alumni of AmeriCorps, Peace Corps, and other national service programs and others who will help us advance our Inclusive Excellence initiative aimed at creating a university that values student, staff and faculty engagement in addressing issues of diversity and inclusiveness.

• Engages with the NSF STC CROPPS in the form of bi-weekly meetings, collaborations, and on-site conferences
• Will develop synthetic constructs to be expressed in plants.
• Perform gene expression studies.
• Generation of transgenic plants lines followed by genotyping and phenotyping of these lines.
• Maintaining healthy plant growth and propagation.
• Participates in scientific data collections, reductions and analyses involving routine procedures characterized by moderate use of independent judgement.
• Communicates and coordinates activities of collaborating researchers while accurately logging activities. Assists in the coordination of laboratory personnel.
• Maintains detailed records of studies conducted, organizes data, prepares data for computer input and records computer output.
• Compiles data and generates computerized statistical data for analytical purposes using software packages; makes preliminary analyses and assists researchers in interpreting the data.
• Writes summaries of projects, documenting location, findings, and procedures used and assists in writing reports by conducting literature searches and background research; prepares bibliographies as required.
• Operates laboratory and experimental equipment such as microscopes, thermocyclers, centrifuges, analytical balances, photometers, and spectrometers. Performs minor repairs and plans for major repairs to be performed.
• Assists with maintenance of the laboratory, inventories, and requisitions for supplies.
• Trains students and staff in the operation of equipment and/or in the performance of technical procedures.
• Willingness to travel and present work (both oral and poster presentations) at international conferences.