Postdoctoral Research Associate

Job Summary

Agriculture Research Development Program (ARDP) in the College of Engineering, Science, Technology and Agriculture (CESTA) at Central State University (1890 Land Grant Institution and HBCU) is seeking a postdoctoral scientist to fulfill obligations for USDA 1890 Land Grant research performing field and lab research experiments. The position is for a 12-month appointment at the beginning. If the performance is satisfactory based on the evaluation, the funding is up to 3 years. The salary is competitive with full benefits as a full-time employee. The research is focused on genetics and genomics to study genes, brain, and social behavior of bees.

The candidate should have experience with pollinator ecology and genomics. The postdoctoral scientist is expected to design and perform procedures/techniques using standard molecular methods for sequencing analysis, physiological assays, behavioral experiments, and advanced knowledge in RNA biology. The incumbent is willing to learn new technologies and is expected to supervise and mentor student researchers (under-represented minority) and assist with routine calibration and maintenance of laboratory equipment.

DUTIES and RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Perform complex field and laboratory experiments for behavioral genetics and epigenetics.
2. Prepare samples for single-cell seq or next-gene sequencing.
3. Follow QA/QC protocols and design SOPs that comply with Standard Methods.
4. Use LIMS for documentation of QA/QC/Standards/Research/Other samples.
5. Direct routine molecular biology procedures.
6. Direct preparation of equipment, samples, reagents, media, and solutions for use in the laboratory.
7. Prepare and submit all necessary reports and related research manuscripts to faculty/PI.
8. Data entry, management, and summarization.
9. Perform bioinformatic analysis using programming skills in computational biology.
10. Assist researchers with statistically valid data analysis and interpretation.
11. Assistance with preparing research findings for presentations and publications.
12. Meet with research faculty/PI weekly to discuss work projects and outputs and assign priorities.
13. Mentor and work with undergraduate students for research.
14. Facilitate the operation of the lab and assist the faculty/students.
15. Other duties and responsibilities as assigned by the supervisor.

Minimum Qualifications

1. Ph.D. in Entomology, Genomics, Evolution, Ecology, Physiology, or related STEM field.
2. Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
3. Knowledgeable of data entry management and presentation skills.
4. Science-driven and highly motivated for research and publications.

Preferred Qualifications

1. Knowledge and skills in bee genomics, molecular/cellular, or physiological biology for at least 2 years.
2. Evidence of peer-reviewed publications in insect genomics/ecology/physiology.
3. Experience and interest in mentoring/teaching students from diverse cultural and ethnic backgrounds.
4. Must be organized and detail-oriented with the ability to work under limited supervision.
5. Ability to produce outcomes under strict deadlines.
6. Experience using Single-cell sequencing, Nanopore direct-seq, or Illumina sequencing.
7. Knowledge and skills in bioinformatics, data science, programming, or computational biology for at least 2 years.

Application Instructions

Applications should be uploaded to the Central State Job Board Posting with a CV, research statement including research experience and future goals, and contact information of three professional references. The review of applications will start on June 1st, 2024, or until the position is filled. The expected start date is December of 2024.