Research Assistant I

Position Summary

This position is a joint appointment between the Lundquist research lab and the graduate training program, Plant Biotechnology for Health and Sustainability.

The Lundquist lab group is a part of the Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology and the Plant Resilience Institute, both at Michigan State University. The group seeks to develop a fundamental understanding of the ubiquitous plastoglobule lipid droplets of plant chloroplasts and employ them as a novel tool for crop improvement and metabolic engineering.

The Plant Biotechnology for Health and Sustainability (PBHS) program is a NIH-supported training program for graduate students at Michigan State. The specific mission of the PBHS training program is to leverage the strengths of MSU’s vibrant plant biology research community while supplementing graduate student training with a structured environment for graduate education, professional development, and student leadership. PBHS seeks to enrich the training of doctoral students and help prepare the next generation of interdisciplinary scientists who will assume leadership roles in biotechnology-related careers across diverse positions in industry, government, academia, and policy.

We are seeking a motivated and organized team member to fulfill a role in support of the research goals of the Lundquist lab and administration of PBHS activities. This full-time position is essential to the smooth operation of PBHS’s key activities and the Lundquist lab research program, which include:

• Transient transformation of tobacco plant tissue and various bacterial/algal species for recombinant protein expression.
• Isolation of sub-cellular and sub-chloroplast fractions.
• Immunoblotting of sub-cellular fractions and whole leaf extracts.
• Confocal/fluorescence microscopic investigation of plant/alga/bacterial tissue.
• Data analysis and communication in oral and written format.
• Coordinate meetings and activities for the PBHS program, including logistical planning and communication with graduate student trainees.
• Assist with compiling and submitting formal reports to the NIH and other stakeholders.
• Maintain program records, including tracking student progress and accomplishments.
• Update and manage the program’s website and other communication platforms.
• Support the planning and execution of the annual PBHS student symposium.
• Organize information and facilitate student internship opportunities in plant sciences.
• Gather and summarize student feedback to inform program improvements.

The successful candidate will play a role in planning, organizing, and executing these activities. This position requires effective communication with current students, alumni, and program directors (Dr. Robert Last and Dr. Danny Ducat), as well as a demonstrated ability in the written and oral communication of science. Expertise in laboratory-related responsibilities in the growth and manipulation of bacteria and genetic transformation of algae and plants are especially desired.

Minimum Requirements

Knowledge equivalent to that which normally would be acquired by completing a four-year college degree program in the field related to Natural Sciences or Communication/Administration; one to three years of related and progressively more responsible or expansive work experience in standard laboratory procedures and safety requirements and performing analytical and research techniques in the growth and manipulation of bacteria and genetic transformation of plant and algal species, experience with university structure and general requirements of graduate student programs, demonstrated ability in the written and oral communication of science.

Desired Qualifications

Prior experience in plant sciences, education, or graduate training is strongly preferred but not mandatory.

Experience in administrative roles or event coordination is strongly preferred but not required.

Proven organization and communication skills; 

Experience with office software (e.g., Microsoft Office, Google Workspace) and basic website content management software (e.g., WordPress or similar platforms).

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 Application Materials

Current resume or CV

Brief cover letter outlining your interest in the position and relevant experience.

Names and contact information for 3 professional references.

Special Instructions

For questions please contact Danny Ducat ducatdan@msu.edu 

Work Hours

STANDARD 8-5

Description of End Date

This is an off dated position funded for one year with possible extension contingent upon funding renewal.

Website

https://www.lundquist-lab.net/

Remote Work Statement

MSU strives to provide a flexible work environment and this position has been designated as remote-friendly. Remote-friendly means some or all of the duties can be performed remotely as mutually agreed upon.

Bidding eligibility ends April 22, 2025 at 11:55 P.M.