Research Associate-Fixed Term

Position Summary

The Rowe lab (http://electromicrobiology.org) at Michigan State University is seeking a Research Associate (Post-Doc) in the area of microbial physiology and genetics, with a special focus on non-model systems. This position will primarily focus on a funded project aimed at characterizing the genetic basis of extracellular electron transfer in Methanosarcina, and uncovering physiologic basis of this process using coupled electrochemistry, microscopy and molecular biology approaches. This will also include opportunities to work on developing new genetic tools for Methanosarcina, performing self-directed projects in microbial electrophysiology, and investigating new microbe-electrode technologies with novel microbial electrochemical systems.

This is a full-time, 12-month fixed-term position with reappointment contingent on satisfactory performance and available funding. 

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Required Degree

Doctorate

Minimum Requirements

Ph.D. in Microbiology, Immunology, Genetics, or related field.

Desired Qualifications

Desired qualifications include experience with anaerobic cultivation techniques, including anaerobic chamber. Experience with molecular techniques including genetics in anaerobic microorganism or Archaea. Experience with analytical approaches such as gas chromatography, ion chromatography and high-pressure liquid chromatography. Experience with sequencing and bioinformatics or experience with electrochemistry will be given preference.

Required Application Materials

Please submit a cover letter describing your background, research skills and career goals, as well as a CV and contract information for three references

Review of Applications Begins On

10/21/2024

Summary of Physical Demands

health risks:

Summary of Health Risks

Some duties in this position may include exposure to the following health risks:

- use of toxic chemical compounds (e.g. sulfide)

- use of compressed gas canisters and potentially flammable gasses

- transporting heavy equipment (e.g. gas cylinders)

Website

https://mgi.natsci.msu.edu/

Department Statement

The Department of Microbiology, Genetics, & Immunology at Michigan State University values diversity in our faculty, staff, and students. We will strive for a culture of equity and inclusion in our research, teaching, mentoring, outreach and other activities. To achieve our goals in research, training, education, and outreach, we need a diverse community to provide new perspectives and develop new approaches for generating and disseminating knowledge about the microbial world and the molecular genetic processes of all life on Earth.  
 
To promote these goals, we are committed to increasing the diversity of the department’s faculty, staff, and students to better reflect the populations of our state and our nation. We are dedicated to providing a safe and welcoming environment where all can be nurtured for sharing ideas, growing skills and advancing knowledge. We will strive for an environment that is welcoming and equitable, one that fosters inclusion and facilitates the participation of all individuals who can help advance our department’s various missions. 

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.