Recruit

The laboratory of Dr. Shabek wishes to employ a Junior Specialist 25% time from June 15, 2023, to May 31, 2025 in order to work on an NSF funded project related to structural and functional analysis of karrikin and hormone-like signaling pathway in plants. The J. Specialist will work directly with the lab PI on the project and is also expected to preform general laboratory tasks and laboratory organization.

a. Performance in Research (60%): This position requires creative contributions to an active research program to isolate and study signaling protein complexes. The candidate will help to determine research goals for defined projects in regular consultation with the Principal Investigator. He/she will design and spearhead specific projects, including the selection of appropriate methods and techniques and to document and organize the results in preparation of scientific publications or grant proposals. The candidate will work directly with the lab PI and help with general laboratory organization tasks include maintaining cells stocks and common enzymes. Experience in standard microbiology protocols, protein expression and purification in bacteria and insect cells, Gel electrophoresis, Agrobacterium inoculation and injection into plants, overexpression of genes using Agrobacterium, data analysis, general greenhouse/growth chamber upkeep, and germinating Arabidopsis, & tobacco, and a strong work ethic are expected.

b. Lab management (30%): Relying on the appointee’s experience in laboratory management and organization including inventory management and ordering. The appointee will order lab supplies, maintain and organize supply inventory. Maintain laboratory equipment. Train undergraduate and high school students; assign and oversee student projects. The appointee will perform lab safety officer duties including overseeing student and staff member safety training requirements, preparing for safety inspections, and enforcing safety standards.

c. Professional Competence & Activity (5%): The candidate will be expected to actively contribute to the weekly lab meeting and will present to that same forum an average of 3 times a year on the research progress made. Separately, the candidate will lead an average of 2 journal club discussions a year, which requires the selection of an appropriate scientific publication and the discussion of its merit. The candidate will attend seminars and may present research results and is encouraged to interact with professional interest groups.

d. University and Public Service (5%): The candidate will engage in public outreach activities that include presenting scientific research results to the general public.

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We are an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity employer, and particularly encourage applications from members of historically underrepresented racial/ethnic groups, women, individuals’ with disabilities, veterans, LGBTQ community members, and others who demonstrate the ability to help us achieve our vision of a diverse and inclusive community. For the complete University of California nondiscrimination and affirmative action policy see: http://policy.ucop.edu/doc/4000376/NondiscrimAffirmAct

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