Careers @ MSU

Position Summary

The Last group at Michigan State University is seeking applicants who seek training at the interface between plant metabolism, evolution and genomics studying tomato and plants across the nightshade family (Solanaceae). The long term goal of this research is to understand how plant specialized (secondary) metabolism evolves to provide protection in an ever-changing world. This project is part of a long-term collaboration between the laboratories of computational biologist Shin-Han Shiu (Plant Biology), molecular plant physiologist Cornelius Barry (Horticulture) and analytical chemist Daniel Jones (Biochemistry and Molecular Biology). An excellent opportunity for researchers considering careers in academia, industry or government.

Experimental duties include planning and implementing experiments involving gene cloning, design and analysis of gene edited CRISPR-Cas lines, protein expression and enzyme assays, small molecule metabolite extraction and mass spectrometry analysis. Data analysis, publication and oral presentations at MSU and international meetings. Mentoring MSU students. Collaboration with members of the project and international scientists.

Required Degree

Doctorate -Biological Science or Chemistry

Minimum Requirements

PhD in an area of Biological Sciences or Chemistry with high quality publications resulting from past research.

Desired Qualifications

Experience in one or more of these area:

Experimental plant biology; metabolomics/analytical chemistry, biochemistry; genetics; evolutionary biology; genomics; molecular biology.

Experience generating and analyzing genomic data.

Experience in scientific writing and oral presentations.

Experience and interest in conducting trans-disciplinary research is desirable.

Experience in plant physiology or plant-insect interactions is desirable.

Required Application Materials

CV; statement of research interest and how working in our group would advance your training; short statement of career aspirations. Three or more letters of reference from individuals familiar with your past work, work ethic, collaborative skills and communication abilities; these letters should include your PhD advisor, at least one member of your PhD advisory committee, while a letter from one or more senior collaborator is desirable.

Special Instructions

Letters of reference should not be from postdoctoral or graduate student collaborators , please.

Review of Applications Begins On

07/21/2020

Website

https://bmb.natsci.msu.edu/

MSU Statement

Michigan State University has been advancing the common good with uncommon will for more than 160 years. One of the top research universities in the world, MSU pushes the boundaries of discovery and forges enduring partnerships to solve the most pressing global challenges while providing life-changing opportunities to a diverse and inclusive academic community through more than 200 programs of study in 17 degree-granting colleges.