Research Associate

Support research in an externally funded program investigating the functions of the newly identified regulators in stomatal development and patterning in Arabidopsis. The Dong laboratory within the Waksman Institute, joint with the Department of Plant Biology at Rutgers, conducts molecular, genetic, cell biological, and biochemical research on questions related to cell polarity and asymmetric cell division in plants. An individual is needed who can conduct research on questions related to the initiation and maintenance of cell polarity, asymmetric cell fate specification in the stomatal lineage cells in Arabidopsis. By using genetic and biochemical methods, an individual will also look for new regulators in the regulation of these processes. The individual will report directly to the laboratory Principle Investigator (PI).

Applicants must have a Ph.D. in biology or subfield thereof (e.g., genetics, biochemistry, biotechnology, molecular biology, cell biology, neurobiology), multiple years of relevant research experience in academia, and experience mentoring and teaching students. Must have excellent interpersonal and communication skills, and should be able to effectively communicate science to a variety of audiences.

An education in genetics and molecular biology is required in order for the individual to effectively mentor genetics and molecular biology on undergraduates. The research projects cover a large span of life science topics and technical approaches, including genetics, biochemistry, cell and molecular biology.

Experience with Arabidopsis genetics, experience studying proteomics, protein phosphorylation and dephosphorylation, experience using confocal microscopy imaging, experience with training undergraduates in a laboratory setting.

Must be familiar with Microsoft Office and Adobe Photoshop. Must be familiar with epifluorescence microscopes, gel electrophoresis, RNA isolation systems, PCR machines, autoclaves, Apple computers, Windows PC's, electrophoresis equipment, protein purification systems and proteomics in plants.

Able to stand, lift, bend. Able to occasionally lift and/or carry objects weighing up to 25 pounds. Able to reach and grasp with arms and hands. Work involves possible exposure to malodorous vapors and toxic chemicals. Long periods of standing and/or sitting.