TTU Post Doctoral Research Associate in Plant Genetic Engineering

at  Texas Tech University

Performs specialized Post Doctoral work in the planning, conducting and/or supervision of original research. Responsible for participating in a research project associated with PhD studies and the interpretation of the results of publication. Work is performed under supervision of graduate faculty members with evaluation based on accomplishment of assigned objectives and overall effectiveness of project. May supervise research and student assistants.

ABOUT THE DEPARTMENT AND/OR COLLEGE

The Janga lab research focuses on the improvement of crop plants using genetic engineering and genomics technologies. The lab is seeking a postdoctoral candidate with a strong experience in plant tissue culture, molecular biology, and bioinformatics. The ideal candidate will have a track record of success in research, a high motivation to work on the project, experience working with recalcitrant crops for genetic transformation, cloning techniques, and good communication skills. The postdoc will lead the efforts to improve the crop plants by applying NGS based genetic approaches, functional screening, and genetic transformation of several crops.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

PhD in area of project specialization. Knowledge of modern research practices, the methods, resources, and standards thereof. Ability to organize work effectively, conceptualize and prioritize objectives and exercise independent judgment based on an understanding of organizational policies and activities. Ability to integrate resources, policies, and information for the determination of procedures, solutions and other outcomes. Ability to establish and maintain effective work relationships with other employees and the public. Ability to plan and allocate the workload of employees, providing direct training and supervision as needed.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Ph.D. in plant biotechnology, genetics, molecular biology or plant biology with strong experience and interest in plant tissue culture, and genetic engineering.
• Ability to generate transgenic plants in one or two crop plants, generating plant transformation vectors, developing peer reviewed publications, and draft project reports.

• Independently perform plant transformation and regeneration of transgenic events for several species as needed including cotton, sorghum, maize, soybean, peanut and rice.
• Demonstrated ability to follow defined protocols and work in a team environment.
• Support the transformation pipeline by developing and optimizing improved transformation methods, testing, and validating novel transformation technologies and continuously improving the overall process to increase scale and efficiency
• Generating plant transformation vectors and molecular characterization of the developed transgenic events.
• Work with PTF staff to execute experiments, troubleshoot and develop effective solutions when problems occur
• Involve actively in data analysis, interpretation and developing peer reviewed publications, draft project reports and participate in developing proposals
• Maintain and clean greenhouses, laboratory equipment and growth chambers.
• Helping with teaching and training of students, responsibility will be under 2%.