Postdoctoral Scholar - Research Associate

School: Keck School of Medicine - Dean's Research Services, Kay Lab

Position: Postdoctoral Scholar Research Associate

This is a full-time, fixed term position.

The Steve Kay laboratory studies the construction and dynamics of complex genetic networks that underlie circadian rhythms in humans, animals, and plants. We also develop and use cutting-edge technologies for measuring transcription in live cells, tissues and intact organisms. We use large scale datasets of gene expression or protein content combined with genetics, bioinformatics and computational tools (mathematical modeling), chemical screens and more conventional biochemical approaches. Ultimately our aim is to scale our understanding of the dynamics of circadian clocks from the systems level down to atomic resolution mechanism. We have a strong commitment to translation of our research, in the case of humans for novel cancer drug discovery, and in crop plants we are pursuing agricultural biotechnology applications of clock biology. More information about the lab can be found on the website.  Dr. Steve Kay is seeking a Postdoctoral Scholar Research Associate to conduct research for his lab. 

Responsibilities include: 

1.    Manage research endeavors
2.    Coordinate all aspects of project implementation, evaluation/analysis, and dissemination of study findings, specifically for grant projects
3.    Synthesize existing data and generate manuscript proposals
4.    Draft study results, including tables, graphs, and figures
5.    Be active in grant-writing and design of new studies
6.    Provide supervision and mentorship for staff and undergraduate research assistants

Qualifications: 

•    Research experience in cell and molecular biology to study the circadian clock using molecular, genetic and genomic approaches in cancer cell models
•    Conventional biochemistry and molecular biology skill sets
•    Understanding of mammalian genetics, and bioinformatics
•    Comfortable use of high throughput technologies and computational tools
•    Experience with gene manipulation and microscopy

The annual base salary for this position is $70,000. When extending an offer of employment, the University of Southern California considers factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate’s work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, federal, state, and local laws, contractual stipulations, grant funding, as well as external market and organizational considerations.

Minimum Education: Ph.D. or equivalent doctorate within previous five years Minimum Experience: 0-1 year Minimum Field of Expertise: Directly related education in research specialization with advanced knowledge of equipment, procedures and analysis methods