Assistant Researcher
Position Overview
A full-time research assistant position is available at the University of Kansas to work on a federally funded project to explore the genomics of male fitness variation in the model fruit fly system, Drosophila melanogaster. The project is led by Drs. John Kelly, Stuart Macdonald, and Rob Unckless. The successful candidate will assist with both fly work (maintaining stocks, crossing flies, executing fitness assays) and with molecular biology and genomics work (isolating DNA, generating next-generation sequencing libraries), and will have the opportunity to learn a range of new skills. We are looking for an enthusiastic and organized individual who wants to learn new experimental skills in the broad areas of evolution and genetics, and has excellent oral and written communication skills. Previous research assistants in our groups have been authors of research publications, and have leveraged their experiences with us to further their careers in academia and/or industry. This position is funded through a multi-year NSF (National Science Foundation) research grant and has an anticipated start date of Jan 2, 2025, although this is flexible/negotiable.
Job Description
50% - Maintain and use Drosophila strains/populations/individuals for genetic analysis. Examples of the work include stock maintenance, preparing media, carrying out crosses, and assaying strains/populations for variation.
30% - Carry out a range of molecular biology procedures. Examples of the work include DNA isolation and next-generation sequencing library construction (e.g., for whole-genome sequencing).
10% - Perform general lab tasks, including inventory and ordering of supplies.
10% - Keep accurate and detailed records. Maintain an up-to-date and accurate physical/digital lab notebook, keep detailed records of all experimental results, and regularly present data/results to the rest of the team.
30% - Carry out a range of molecular biology procedures. Examples of the work include DNA isolation and next-generation sequencing library construction (e.g., for whole-genome sequencing).
10% - Perform general lab tasks, including inventory and ordering of supplies.
10% - Keep accurate and detailed records. Maintain an up-to-date and accurate physical/digital lab notebook, keep detailed records of all experimental results, and regularly present data/results to the rest of the team.
Position Requirements
Work Location: On-site Haworth Hall, Rm 5005, 785-864-3706
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in biology or a related field by start date.
- Experience with molecular biology techniques (e.g., PCR), as evidenced by the application materials.
- Effective written communication skills as evidenced by the application materials.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with Drosophila husbandry.
- Laboratory experience, including troubleshooting and optimizing protocols.
- Experience making next generation sequencing libraries
- Experience managing large scientific projects, including managing undergraduate assistants.
Additional Candidate Instructions
A complete online application includes the following materials:
Questions about the position are welcome and can be directed to John Kelly (jkk@ku.edu).
Application review begins Monday, August 19, 2024 and continues until a qualified pool of applicants is received. To ensure consideration, apply before the application review date.
- CV/resume,
- Cover letter describing how you meet the required and preferred qualifications as well as relevant experience and interest in the position
- Contact information for three referees (phone/email)
Questions about the position are welcome and can be directed to John Kelly (jkk@ku.edu).
Application review begins Monday, August 19, 2024 and continues until a qualified pool of applicants is received. To ensure consideration, apply before the application review date.
Contact Information to Applicants
John Kelly; jkk@ku.edu, (785) 864-3706
Advertised Salary Range
$46,000 commensuarate with qualifications and experience
Work Schedule
M-F; 8-5
Application Review Begins
Monday August 19, 2024
Anticipated Start Date
Thursday January 2, 2025