Assistant Researcher - 24636BR

Assistant Researcher

Department: 
Higuchi Biosciences Center
Location/Division: 
University of Kansas Lawrence Campus
Work Location Assignment: 
On-Site
Reg/Temp: 
Regular
Employee Class: 
U-Unclassified Professional Staff

Position Overview

An assistant researcher position is available in the Macdonald lab in the Department of Molecular Biosciences at the University of Kansas. 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 and been authors on research publications from the lab. The position is funded through a new multi-year NIH grant and has an anticipated start date of June 5, 2023 (although this is negotiable).

Job Description

50%
  • Generate, maintain and use Drosophila strains/populations for genetics 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 regular present data/results to Dr. Macdonald.

Position Requirements

Physical Requirements (with or without accommodation):
  • Standing or walking for more than a combined total of four hours/day in order to do bench work in various labs.
  • Lifting of up to 20 pounds, with frequent lifting and carrying of up to 10 pounds of lab supplies.
  • Use of both hands to perform experiments in the lab.

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.

Additional Candidate Instructions

A complete online application includes:
  • Cover letter outlining relevant experience and interest in the position
  • CV/resume highlighting pertinent experience relative to the required and preferred qualifications
  • 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).

Review of applications will begin on April 3, 2023 and will continue until the position is filled. To ensure first consideration, please apply by April 2, 2023.

Contact Information to Applicants

Dr. Stuart Macdonald
sjmac@ku.edu
785-864-5362

Advertised Salary Range

Minimum 37,000.00 Commensurate with qualifications and experience

Work Schedule

Monday - Friday 8am - 5pm

Application Review Begins

03-Apr-2023

Anticipated Start Date

05-Jun-2023

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Posting Information
Posting ID:
24636BR
Department:
Higuchi Biosciences Center
Primary Campus:
University of Kansas Lawrence Campus
Work Location Assignment:
On-Site
Reg/Temp:
Regular
Employee Class:
U-Unclassified Professional Staff
Application Review Begins:
03-Apr-2023