The laboratory seeks a full-time Research Specialist I/II who will join a vibrant team that aims to understand the structure and function of pyrenoid, the algal CO2-concentrating organelle, and to engineer a minimal functional pyrenoid into plants to increase yields. Photosynthetic organisms, our planet's greatest chemists, form the foundations for human health by providing us with food, fuel, materials and drugs. Yet, our understanding of these organisms is in its infancy. The Jonikas laboratory aims to enable advances in sustainability by developing transformative tools and resources for photosynthetic organisms.
Work collaboratively with a postdoc on engineering algal CO2-concentrating mechanism components into the model plant Nicotiana benthamiana.
This will include:
*Growth of plants under different conditions.
*Transient and stable expression of algal genes in plants.
*Characterization of transgenic plants using genetic and molecular assays, like PCR and Western Blots.
*Contribute to the project intellectually.
Essential
• Highly motivated, dedicated, tenacious, problem solving attitude.
• 1 year of molecular biology laboratory experience.
• Must have great attention to detail.
• Excellent oral and written English communication skills.
• Must be able to manage own time and prioritize tasks.
• Must be able to lift at least 30 lbs and occasionally use a ladder.
Preferred
• Outstanding academic record with a Bachelor’s degree in molecular biology or a related field.
• Ability to independently troubleshoot experiments.
• Experience with sterile technique, PCR, gel electrophoresis, cloning or Western blotting.
• Experience with Chlamydomonas, E. coli or yeast
• Expertise in photosynthesis or carbon concentrating mechanisms
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