Research Support Openings

Kochian USDA Lab

Plant Molecular Biology Research Specialist

A technician position to provide technical assistance for a research program studying crop resistance to aluminum toxicity, mineral deficiencies, drought and other abiotic stresses.

Responsibilities:

Primary responsibilities are to carry out molecular biology laboratory procedures such as DNA/RNA extractions, PCR and reverse PCR (including real-time PCR), plasmid construction, agarose gel electrophoresis, DNA sequencing, protein expression and isolation, etc. More specifically, the job duties include:

• Carry out lab work focusing on technical aspects of specific research projects.
• Responsibilities emphasize molecular techniques such as plasmid construction, DNA/RNA extractions, PCR and real-time PCR, agarose gel electrophoresis, DNA sequencing, molecular cloning and sample collection and archiving, protein expression and isolation.
• Operate a variety of laboratory equipment including autoclaves, centrifuges, homogenizers, spectrophotometers, thermal cyclers including a real-time PCR thermal cycler.
• Responsible for sample preparation, collection, analyses; uses computer software for recording, tabulating, and maintaining data, methods, and procedures used in data collection.
• Assists with data analyses, report preparation and presentation.
• Maintains inventory of chemicals, prepares solutions and reagents for use in the laboratory, and safely disposes of waste material, both chemical and biological according to established laboratory procedures.
• Will work in support of specific research projects in support of senior scientists and postdoctoral associates in the lab.

Requirements:

B.S. degree in Molecular Biology, Plant Genetics, Plant Biology, or related field. Demonstrated proficiency with some or all of the research methods that will be used is preferable for this position.

To Apply:

To apply or for more information, please contact Leon Kochian, Robert W. Holley Center for Agriculture and Health, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853. Email address: lvk1@cornell.edu. Phone (607) 255-2454; Fax 607 255-2459. Email, mail or fax applications to Dr. Kochian. Applications should include a brief cover letter detailing experience, a curriculum vitae, and names of at least two references. Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled.

This position is employed by the Boyce Thompson Institute for Plant Research supporting a USDA lab.

Job # 2009-33

BTI is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer.