Postdoctoral Research Associate at the Complex Carbohydrate Research Center, University of Georgia

Postdoctoral Research Associate, University of Georgia, Complex Carbohydrate Research Center

All applicants must apply online at https://www.ugajobsearch.com/.  Please see the job posting at:  https://www.ugajobsearch.com/postings/272815

*Note* Applications will only be accepted via the link above.

Position Summary:

The postdoctoral research associate will work on a project  in the Urbanowicz Lab at UGA's Complex Carbohydrate Research Center to functionally characterize plant glycosyltransferases. In vitro and in vivo analyses will be carried out to assign the functions and roles of glycosyltransferase gene products in diverse carbohydrate biosynthetic pathways. The candidate will be leading efforts to determine biocatalytic activities of recombinant enzymes and their saccharide products using high throughput approaches. In addition, training will be provided in the use and implementation of state of the art physical and spectroscopic techniques, including HPLC, MALDI-TOF MS, 1H-NMR, and ESI-MS for functional analysis of carbohydrate products. The research associate will also be responsible for the preparation of oral and written research reports and manuscripts. Some travel may be needed.

Relevant/Preferred Education, Experience, Licensure, Certification in Position:

Ph.D. in chemistry, biochemistry, biology, plant biology or a related discipline. Preference will be given to candidates who have hands-on experience with structural analyses of complex glycans and heterologous expression and purification of recombinant proteins. Previous experience in characterization of enzymes involved in polysaccharide biosynthesis and/or deconstruction is encouraged. Strong communication skills and fluency in written and spoken English are essential as is working in a collaborative scientific environment.

Duties/Responsibilities: 

Prepare oral or written reports, write manuscripts, and maintain concise records of the research carried out as part of this project.  Percentage of time 10%

Design and generate constructs for heterologous expression of glycosyltransferases from duckweed species.  Percentage of time 30%

Perform in vitro analyses to assign the functions and roles of glycosyltransferases in plant carbohydrate biosynthetic pathways.  Percentage of time 30%

Dissect enzymatic microenvironments involved in non-template based polymer synthesis by carrying out affinity biotinylation studies in Arabidopsis and duckweed.  Percentage of time 30%

Advertised Salary: $55,000

Anticipated Start Date:  09/01/2022

Required Documents:

Resume/CV

Cover Letter

List of References with Contact Information