FELLOW, POST DOCTORAL

The University of Missouri-Columbia, Bond Life Sciences Center (https://bondlsc.missouri.edu/) invites applications for a Post-Doctoral Research Associate position in plant single-cell computational biology in the Libault Lab: https://bondlsc.missouri.edu/person/marc-libault/. This 12-month (calendar year), full-time (1.0 FTE) special appointment will focus on expertise bioinformatics, computational biology, machine learning, and plant genomics. The apportionment is 100% research. This position will be located in Columbia, Missouri. 
The Libault lab seeks to explore and understand the network of plant genes, and their regulation in response to environmental stress at the single-cell level. These discoveries will lead to the development of new strategies to improve crop characteristics and performance. Therefore, using single-cell-omics datasets, the postdoctoral associate will work on genomics, epigenetics, and/or bioinformatics/computational biology to characterize and functionally validate plant cell-type-specific transcriptional programs, their regulation in response to environmental stresses, and their differential regulation between plant species.
The selected postdoctoral researcher will have opportunities to work and develop computational resources to conduct:
•           Comparative analyses of gene expression between crop species.
•           Analyses of plant single-cell-omics datasets, integration of multiomic datasets, transcriptomic trajectories, and prediction of gene networks.

In addition to the above-described duties, the individual will be expected to accept committee assignments, reporting responsibilities, and other special ad hoc assignments as requested at the administrative unit, college, and/or university level.
 

A PhD in plant computational biology/genomics, bioinformatics, machine learning, or a related field is required at the time of hiring.

Candidates will be evaluated on:

• prior knowledge and demonstrated expertise in next-generation sequencing data analysis, computational systems biology, and/or data integration, excellent oral and written communication skills, and the ability to work in a team environment
• A solid knowledge of plant genomics, evolution, gene expression/regulation, and biological networks
• Persuasive communicators with exceptional organizational and time management skills
• Durable skills such as leadership, character, collaboration, communication, creativity, critical thinking, metacognition, mindfulness, growth mindset, and fortitude as well as customer service, confidentiality, integrity, and a commitment to the University's values

Please provide your curriculum vitae and a letter of interest that describes your qualifications for the job, anticipated contributions and your experience fostering equitable environments.

Review of applications will begin November 15, 2023 and continue until the position is filled.

This project presents opportunities to work in a collaborative and very dynamic environment with computational and molecular biologists. The University of Missouri provides a stimulating atmosphere with excellent facilities Cores & centers | Research, Innovation & Impact (missouri.edu), and colleagues for high-quality research in agricultural and plant sciences.

Columbia, Mo., is known as an ideal college town, combining small-town comforts, community spirit and low cost of living with big-city culture, activities and resources.  Home to nationally renowned public schools and other colleges and educational centers, Columbia is packed with restaurants and entertainment venues and hosts more than a dozen annual cultural festivals.

This position is eligible for University benefits.  The University offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental and vision plans, retirement, and educational fee discounts.  For additional information on University benefits, please visit the Faculty & Staff Benefits website at http://www.umsystem.edu/totalrewards/benefits

Values Commitment
 
We value the uniqueness of every individual and strive to ensure each person’s success. Contributions from individuals with diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives promote intellectual pluralism and enable us to achieve the excellence that we seek in learning, research and engagement.  This commitment makes our university a better place to work, learn and innovate.

In your application materials, please discuss your experiences and expertise that support these values and enrich our missions of teaching, research and engagement.

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