Biologist Postdoctoral Fellow

Berkeley Lab’s Environmental Genomics & Systems Biology (EGSB) Division has an opening to join the Feedstocks Division at the Joint BioEnergy Institute (JBEI) in the Bioenergy Crop Engineering Group led by Aymerick Eudes.

 

The primary focus of this position will be to generate DNA constructs for plant transformation, select transgenic plants, characterize the engineered plant material at the metabolite level, and conduct biomass composition and deconstruction analyses. In this role, you will be involved in two projects: (1) developing metabolic pathways to produce novel lignins and valuable co-products in model plants and crops (Arabidopsis, tobacco, sorghum) and (2) characterizing existing sorghum lines engineered with JBEI-Feedstocks’ technology portfolio. 

 

What You Will Do:

• Cell wall and metabolite analyses from Arabidopsis and sorghum transgenic lines.
• Design DNA constructs for expression of metabolic pathways.
• Plant transformation (Arabidopsis) / molecular characterization / transient expression in tobacco.
• Saccharification assays of engineered biomass.
• Prepare manuscripts for publication.
• Collaborate with other Divisions at JBEI for biomass conversion studies.
• Participate in group meetings and seminars.
• Maintain an accurate and detailed scientific logbook of all experiments performed.
• Archive generated material (Plasmid / seeds/ biomass samples).
• Ensure that others could duplicate results.

 

What is Required:

• A recent PhD in Plant Biology, Molecular Biology, Metabolomics, Biochemistry, or a related field.
• Expert knowledge in DNA manipulation / cloning.
• Demonstrated experience working with plant mutants including culturing, transformation, selection, and genotyping.
• Experience with synthetic biology, metabolite analysis, lignin analysis, and/or biomass deconstruction
• Excellent oral and written communication skills including the ability to organize/present technical reports, maintain an electronic lab notebook, appropriate records, and manage data.
• Demonstrated interpersonal skills including experience collaborating with a diverse interdisciplinary research team.

 

What We Prefer:

• Experience with writing manuscripts for publication in scientific journals.
• Experience with using liquid and gas chromatography instrumentation (HPLC, GC-MS).

 

For full consideration, please apply by October 31, 2022 with the following application materials:

• Cover Letter – Describe your interest in this position and the relevance of your background.
• Curriculum Vitae (CV) or Resume.

 

Notes:

• This is a full time, exempt from overtime pay (monthly paid), 2 year appointment with the possibility of renewal based upon satisfactory job performance, continuing availability of funds, and ongoing operational needs.  You must have less than 3 years of paid postdoctoral experience.
• This position is represented by a union for collective bargaining purposes with predetermined postdoctoral step rates dependent on years of experience post-degree.
• Salary is commensurate with experience.
• This position may be subject to a background check. Any convictions will be evaluated to determine if they directly relate to the responsibilities and requirements of the position. Having a conviction history will not automatically disqualify an applicant from being considered for employment.
• Work will be performed onsite at Joint BioEnergy Institute (JBEI) — Bldg. 978, 5885 Hollis St., 4th floor, Emeryville, CA.

 

Learn About Us:

 

Berkeley Lab (LBNL) addresses the world’s most urgent scientific challenges by advancing sustainable energy, protecting human health, creating new materials, and revealing the origin and fate of the universe. Founded in 1931, Berkeley Lab’s scientific expertise has been recognized with 13 Nobel prizes. The University of California manages Berkeley Lab for the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Science.

 

Berkeley Lab’s Postdoc Program is committed to providing Postdoctoral Researchers and Visiting scholars with a positive and impactful experience to jump-start their career through premium research and career development, networking opportunities, mentoring programs, and a strong community.  For more information, please visit our Berkeley Lab Postdoc Resources site and our Berkeley Lab Postdoc Association site.

 

Based on University of California Policy – SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) Vaccination Program and U.S Federal Government requirements, Berkeley Lab requires that all members of our community obtain the COVID-19 vaccine as soon as they are eligible. As a condition of employment at Berkeley Lab, all Covered Individuals must Participate in the COVID-19 Vaccination Program by providing proof of Full Vaccination or submitting a request for Exception or Deferral. Visit covid.lbl.gov for more information.

 

Berkeley Lab is committed to Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Accountability (IDEA) and strives to continue building community with these shared values and commitments.

 

Berkeley Lab is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer. We heartily welcome applications from women, minorities, veterans, and all who would contribute to the Lab’s mission of leading scientific discovery, inclusion, and professionalism. In support of our diverse global community, all qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, or protected veteran status. 

 

Equal Opportunity and IDEA Information Links:

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