A research assistant / lab technician position is available in my lab at KU to work on projects examining the genetic analysis of complex traits in flies. The position will involve both fly work and molecular biology (including approaches using high-throughput sequencing). Experience with flies would be a plus, but isn’t required. The formal announcement, and links to the institutional employment website are provided below. Feel free to email me with any questions. Stuart Macdonald (sjmac@ku.edu)
Position Overview:
An assistant researcher position is available in the Macdonald lab in the Department of Molecular Biosciences at the University of Kansas (https://nam10.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fmolecularbiosciences.ku.edu%2Fpeople%2Fstuart-j-macdonald&data=05%7C02%7Cmid14018%40uconn.mail.onmicrosoft.com%7C845e480d677648ab777a08dc4d824d3e%7C17f1a87e2a254eaab9df9d439034b080%7C0%7C0%7C638470469250546300%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=uHuMFL8mqkh2lVgBNWsFzvwU42t%2BxXKCodlAw0mc720%3D&reserved=0). We explore the genetic basis of complex trait variation using the fruit fly Drosophila as a model system. The successful candidate will help maintain fly strains and populations of flies, supervise and carry out large-scale phenotyping screens, and perform various molecular biology tasks, including generating next-generation sequencing libraries for various genomics applications. We are looking for an enthusiastic and organized individual who wants to learn new skills, and has excellent oral and written communication skills. Previous research assistants in the Macdonald group have undertaken independent research projects, been authors on research publications from the lab, and gone onto graduate school or positions in industry. The position is funded through a new multi-year NIH grant and has an anticipated start date of May 27, 2024 (although this is flexible/negotiable).
Job Description:
50% – Generate, maintain and use Drosophila strains/populations for genetic analysis. Examples of the work include stock maintenance, preparing media, carrying out crosses, and assaying strains/populations for phenotypic variation (e.g., stress tolerance).
30% – Carry out a range of molecular biology procedures. Examples of the work include DNA and RNA isolation, PCR, and next generation sequencing library construction (e.g., for RNAseq or whole-genome sequencing).
10% – Perform general lab tasks, including inventory and ordering of supplies, and working with undergraduate students.
10% – Keep accurate and detailed records. Maintain an up-to-date and accurate lab notebook, keep a detailed digital record of all experimental results, and regularly present data/results to Dr. Macdonald.
Required Qualifications:
(1) A Bachelor’s degree in Biology or a related field. (2) Previous experience with molecular biology techniques (e.g., PCR), as evidenced by application materials. (3) Effective written communications skills as evidenced by application materials.
Preferred Qualifications:
(1) Experience with Drosophila husbandry. (2) Significant laboratory experience, including troubleshooting and optimizing protocols. (3) Experience making next generation sequencing libraries (e.g., RNAseq libraries). (4) Prior experience managing large scientific projects, including managing undergraduate assistants.
Application:
For a complete announcement and to apply online, go to employment.ku.edu/staff/27466BR
A complete application includes the following: (1) A cover letter outlining relevant experience and interest in the position, (2) a CV/resume highlighting pertinent experience relative to the required and preferred qualifications, and (3) contact information for three professional references.
Only complete applications will be considered. Informal queries about the position are welcome, and can be directed to Dr. Stuart Macdonald (sjmac@ku.edu, 785-864-5362).
Review of applications will begin on April 8, 2024 and will continue until the position is filled.
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