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Research Associate in Plant and Arthropod Microbiome

Employer
Indiana University
Location
Indiana, United States
Salary
$39,000.00 - $39,000.00
Date posted
Nov 3, 2017

The Keith Clay lab at Indiana University is seeking a highly-motivated Research Associate to use microbiological and molecular tools to assist with two projects: 1) the distribution and prevalence of tick- and mosquito-borne pathogens in the face of environmental change, funded by the IU Grand Challenge Prepared for Environmental Change project, and 2) the identity and function of the fungal microbiome of the invasive grass, Phragmites australis, funded by a grant from the US Geological Survey. The research associate will be screening ticks and mosquitoes for bacterial and viral pathogens, and culturing, sequencing and performing transcriptome analyses of fungi from Phragmites. Clay lab research is described at http://www.indiana.edu/~symbios/Clay_Lab/Home.html.

The successful applicant will spend the majority of their time on processing biological samples under the supervision of the faculty member or postdoctoral fellow. They will keep careful records of sample collections and the identities of their microbial communities. Desirable skills and experience include: PCR, DNA extraction (plant, fungal, bacterial, and arthropod), viral culturing and identification, RNA extraction, gel electrophoresis, sterile technique, fungal and bacterial culturing, high-throughput and Sanger sequencing, data management and analysis and bioinformatics analyses. Responsibilities also include some general lab maintenance, including but not limited to purchasing supplies, coordinating disposal of waste, overseeing equipment maintenance and repair, organizing and maintaining culture collections, and supervising work of undergraduates.

B.S. or B.A. in biology, microbiology, or a related field, and previous lab experience required.  M.S. in biology or related field preferred.  Applicants should have some prior research experience in microbiology and/or molecular biology. Additional training specific to work in the lab will be provided. The initial appointment is for one year, contingent upon satisfactory performance, but can be extended for multiple years.  The successful applicant must be well organized and detail-oriented, with strong analytical and interpersonal skills, and be able to work effectively with minimal supervision as part of a larger research team.  Salary: $39,000 plus benefits included. To apply, please submit 1) a brief cover letter describing your research/educational background, why you're interested in the position and the date you are available to start, 2) a CV, and 3) the names and contact information (including email addresses) of two references to: http://indiana.peopleadmin.com/postings/4856.  For additional questions about the position, please email Dr. Keith Clay (clay@indiana.edu).  For best consideration, please apply before November 30, 2017.

The College of Arts and Sciences is committed to building and supporting a diverse, inclusive, and equitable community of students and scholars.

Indiana University is an equal employment and affirmative action employer and a provider of ADA services.  All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, ethnicity, color, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation or identity, national origin, disability status, or protected veteran status.

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