Postdoctoral Research Associate I

A postdoctoral research position is available in the Beilstein lab in the School of Plant Sciences at the University of Arizona to participate in a research project that focuses on understanding the molecular mechanisms behind long distance stress signaling in Arabidopsis thaliana, Solanum lycopersicum (tomato), and other economically important crop species. The overall goal is to elucidate how small-peptide signaling coordinates whole plant responses to environmental conditions. This project is part of an NSF-funded Science and Technology Center (STC), Center for Research on Programmable Plant Systems (https://cropps.cornell.edu). As such, this project is part of a collaborative effort across five academic institutes (U. Arizona, U. Illinois, Cornell U., Boyce Thompson Institute, and Tuskegee University).

The candidate will have the primary responsibility of the biochemical, molecular, and genetic characterization of small peptide signaling. The candidate will perform molecular biology and biochemical analyses to understand and reengineer native local and long-distance plants use to coordinate process across tissues. The candidate will generate transgenic plant lines and will be responsible for their cultivation. They will direct and mentor undergraduate and graduate research associates. The candidate will also be expected to engage in collaborations (both large and small) within the NSF STC and the Beilstein lab. The candidate will be required to work with potentially hazardous materials such as toxic chemicals.

Outstanding UA benefits include health, dental, vision, and life insurance; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; UA/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; access to UA recreation and cultural activities; and more!

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• Engage with the NSF STC CROPPS in the form of bi-weekly meetings, collaborations, and on-site conferences
• Perform molecular biology and biochemical assays to detect and analyze long distance signaling in response to soil nitrogen availability.
• Perform gene expression studies.
• Generate transgenic plants lines followed by genotyping and phenotyping of these lines.
• Maintain healthy plant growth and propagation.
• Participate in scientific data collections, reductions and analyses involving routine procedures characterized by moderate use of independent judgement.
• Communicate and coordinate activities of collaborating researchers while accurately logging activities. Assist in the coordination of laboratory personnel.
• Maintain detailed records of studies conducted, organize data, prepare data for computer input and record computer output. 
• Compile data and generate computerized statistical data for analytical purposes using software packages; make preliminary analyses and assists researchers in interpreting the data. 
• Write summaries of projects, documenting location, findings, and procedures used and assist in writing reports by conducting literature searches and background research; prepares bibliographies as required. 
• Operate laboratory and experimental equipment such as microscopes, thermocyclers, centrifuges, analytical balances, photometers, and spectrometers. Performs minor repairs and plans for major repairs to be performed. 
• Assist with maintenance of the laboratory, inventories, and requisitions for supplies. 
• Train students and staff in the operation of equipment and/or in the performance of technical procedures.
• Willingness to travel and present work (both oral and poster presentations) at international conferences.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• Deep knowledge of plant peptide signaling, molecular genetics, and cell biology
• Proficiency with gene expression techniques (RT-qPCR, RNA-seq)
• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively in casual interactions (within the lab, email) and formal presentations (seminars, manuscripts)
• Ability to read, interpret, and explain scientific literature
• Ability to work with others in the lab and to collaborate with colleagues at U of A and other campuses
• Possesses the willingness to work with scientists from different backgrounds and to appreciate the role that diversity brings to research
• Demonstrated written and oral communication skills and an ability to interact and work collaboratively with others are essential qualifications.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• The candidate will be required to work with potentially hazardous materials such as toxic chemicals.

• Ph.D. in Plant Sciences, Molecular Biology, or equivalent field upon hire.
  

• Research experience in plant peptide signaling, molecular genetics, and biochemistry.
• Experience with microscopy (e.g., confocal microscopy, transmission electron microscopy).
• Experience with the analysis of morphological phenotyping data, particularly of root.
• Experience growing and working with Arabidopsis thaliana and tomato.
• Preference will be given to a highly motivated, enthusiastic, and independent candidate with a Ph.D. and proven experience in plant peptide signaling and a strong background in molecular genetics and/or cell biology.