Research Associate-Fixed Term

Position Summary

The laboratory of Dr. Robert Quinn at Michigan State University in collaboration with the Coral Resilience Lab (PI: Drury) at the Hawaiʻi Institute of Marine Biology are looking for a postdoctoral scholar to study the microbiome and metabolome of coral reefs. This project is a fully funded position from the National Science Foundation under its Organismal Response to Climate Change program that aims to understand the biochemistry and microbiology of coral bleaching. Recent research from our group has shown that unique lipids in the coral’s dinoflagellate symbiont reflect its tolerance to thermal stress. This project will integrate multi-omics analysis in the Quinn Lab with field sampling experiments in Kāneʻohe Bay, Oʻahu, Hawaiʻi to further understand the dynamics of coral biochemical and microbiological response to temperature stress. Methods used will include mass spectrometry-based metabolomics and high-throughput nucleic acid sequencing. Experiments are designed to mimic future climate conditions and include direct restoration of reefs in Hawaii as part of the program. The position is based in East Lansing, Michigan, USA but will include field trips and experiments in Kāneʻohe Bay, Hawaiʻi.

Description of work/duties: Extraction of metabolites for LC-MS/MS metabolomics and nucleic acids for high-throughput nucleic acid sequencing from samples collected at field sites in Hawaiʻi. Classic molecular biology techniques and bio/cheminformatic data analysis methods will be performed in the Quinn Lab. Growing corals in aquaria for experimentation in Michigan and Hawaii are also planned as part of the project. Opportunities to contribute to field sampling and restoration on coral reefs using snorkeling and SCUBA are also available, but training in these techniques is not required for this project.

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 -Biochemistry, Microbiology, Ecology, related field

Minimum Requirements

PhD in Biochemistry, Microbiology, Ecology, or related field

Experience with mass spectrometry and multi-omics data analysis

Experience analyzing data in R

Desired Qualifications

Field sampling, aquaculture or rearing of marine organisms in their natural environment. Experience with experimental biology. Leadership experience supporting Diversity, Equity and Inclusion initiatives in STEM.

Required Application Materials

Cover letter, curriculum vitae, and contact details of at least three professional references.

Website

https://directory.natsci.msu.edu/Directory/Profiles/Person/100415?org=6&group=63

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.