Biological Scientist III

The ideal candidate will have broad experience in molecular and cellular biology techniques using early branching marine invertebrates including cnidarians and ctenophores. The ideal candidate will be familiar with methods such as DNA and RNA extraction, in situ hybridization, gene manipulation/editing techniques (RNAi, morpholinos, CRISPR/Cas9), microinjection of embryos, transgenesis, quantitative PCR, Western blotting, epifluorescence and confocal microscopy, and cloning. Experience with cellular proliferation and viability assays is preferred. Experience with maintaining and feeding of marine organisms is required.

The Biological Scientist will oversee all molecular and functional genomic research activity of the PI Dr. Mark Q. Martindale. It is expected that the incumbent will be responsible for the day to day operation of experiments that include the design and execution of experiments, leading research activities related to these topics, performing data analysis, and writing manuscripts and grants.  Additional work includes:

• Prepare requests for proposals or statements of work
• Review reports and proposals for accuracy, adequacy, or adherence to policies, regulations, or scientific standards
• Monitor or operate specialized equipment
• Design or build laboratory equipment needed for special research projects
• Provide routine maintenance on laboratory equipment; verify that equipment and instrumentation are maintained in working condition to ensure accuracy and quality of experimental results
• Evaluate/recommend new supplies, technologies, and equipment to ensure operability in specific laboratory settings for enhancing or complementing research
• Confer with vendors to evaluate new equipment or reagents or to discuss the customization of product lines to meet user requirements
• Maintain accurate laboratory records that record research methods, procedures, and results; prepare and maintain research findings, summaries, logs, and notes
• Program and use computers to store, process, and analyze data

Perform research as part of a team, as well as train and mentor other lab members on established or new protocols that are established.  This position will also lead and assist with the care and maintenance of the lab’s breeding colonies of Mnemiopsis leidyi and Nematostella vectensis.

The proposed incumbent will also have the following responsibilities:

• Create standard protocols for all laboratory operations/equipment to PI’s standards; Insure Standard Operating Procedures and protocols are maintained and applied,
• Maintain detailed record keeping and data collection of all experiments,
• Maintain the laboratory equipment and laboratory physical area,
• Coordinate the developmental safety program for all laboratory settings, or specialized scientific or hazardous materials stores,
• Outline experimental protocols,
• Review papers and abstracts,
• Be able to relay information to public, students, and fellow scientists,
• Ensure compliance with federal regulations for hazardous waste disposal,
• Develop laboratory procedures,
• Prepare and monitor operating budget. Recommend purchases,
• Aid in selection of methodology and techniques and develop a research budget that fits within the scope of grant opportunities,
• Perform basic statistical evaluation and assistance with preparation of manuscripts and grant proposals, literature searches, retrieval of material, data processing and entry for research duties,
• Define goals for a given research project in conjunction with PI and/or staff, students
• Help students/PI analyze existing methodologies, formulates hypotheses, and develops new procedures, strong experimental design techniques and understanding

commensurate with experience

Bachelor’s degree in biology or a closely related field and seven years of relevant experience; or a Master’s degree in biology or a closely related field and five years of relevant experience; Doctoral degree in biology or a closely related field and two years of relevant experience.

Candidates should have at least 5 years of post-Ph.D. degree training, evidence of publication in the leading journals within the field and working experience by the time of employment. Postdoctoral experience in the mentioned fields is highly desired. The candidate should be familiar with university purchasing and data management systems.

Application must be submitted by 11:55 p.m. (ET) of the posting end date.