Berkeley Lab’s (LBNL ) Joint Genome Institute (JGI) has an opening for a talented Biological Sciences Postdoctoral Fellow to join the team.

In this exciting role, you will perform research focused on determining the function of conserved cis-regulatory elements (CREs) in grasses using comparative genomics to identify putative CREs that are conserved among diverse grass species. A subset of these putative CREs will be functionally characterized in the model grass Brachypodium distachyon . Using multiple data types and polyploid genomes as a natural experimental system to select candidates for validation, you will then use reporter constructs to characterize expression patterns conferred by the CREs in B. distachyon . Techniques used will include gene expression analysis, designing reporter constructs, plant transformation, and microscopy to determine gene expression at the cellular level.  You will store and organize results for presentation and viewing by project team members, the wider scientific community, and prepare results for publication in scientific journals.

The JGI ’s mission is to provide the global research community with access to the most advanced integrative genome science capabilities in support of the DOEs research mission to solve the world’s evolving energy and environmental challenges. The JGI supports projects in genome sequencing, synthesis, transcriptomics, metabolomics, and natural products in plants, fungi, algae, and microorganisms. This position is headquartered on the Lab’s main site at the Integrative Genomics Building (IGB) (Virtual Tour ).

This position has an anticipated start date of October 1, 2023.

What You Will Do:

• Identify and prioritize a set of putative enhancers that are conserved among grasses.
• Create transgenic plants to test specific hypotheses.
• Characterize the expression patterns conferred by the conserved enhancers in Brachypodium distachyon.
• Store and organize results for presentation and viewing by project team members, collaborators, and the wider scientific community.
• Interact with a multi-institution project team to ensure efficient communication and completion of analysis projects.
• Present findings at group meetings, conferences, and publish results in peer review journals.

What is Required:

• A recent Ph.D. (within the last 1-3 years) in Biological Sciences, Life Sciences, or a related field including relevant research experience.
• A strong background including laboratory experience in Molecular Biology, Plant Biology and/or Microbiology.
• Strong organizational skills including the ability to accurately record results and analyze data. 
• Excellent oral and written communication skills including the ability to organize/present technical reports and provide a proven track record of recent or pending scientific publications.
• Demonstrated interpersonal skills including experience collaborating with a diverse interdisciplinary research team.

Desired Qualifications:

• Experience using Bioinformatics tools such as Linux command lines, Python, and R.
• Experience with gene editing and plant transformation. 

Notes:

• For first consideration, please apply with a curriculum vitae (CV) or resume by July 30, 2023.
• This is a full time, exempt from overtime pay (monthly paid), 2 year (benefits eligible), Postdoctoral Fellow appointment with the possibility of renewal based upon satisfactory job performance, continuing availability of funds, and ongoing operational needs. You must have less than 3 years of paid postdoctoral experience.
• The monthly salary range for this position is $5,374 - $6,444 and is expected to start at $5,374 or above. Postdoctoral positions are paid on a step schedule per union contract and salaries are predetermined based on postdoctoral step rates. Each step represents one full year of completed post-Ph.D. postdoctoral and/or related research experience.
• This position is represented by a union for collective bargaining purposes.
• This position may be subject to a background check. Any convictions will be evaluated to determine if they directly relate to the responsibilities and requirements of the position. Having a conviction history will not automatically disqualify an applicant from being considered for employment.
• This position will be performed at Lawrence Berkeley National Lab, 1 Cyclotron Road, Berkeley, CA.

Learn About Us:

Berkeley Lab (LBNL) addresses the world’s most urgent scientific challenges by advancing sustainable energy, protecting human health, creating new materials, and revealing the origin and fate of the universe. Founded in 1931, Berkeley Lab’s scientific expertise has been recognized with 16 Nobel prizes. The University of California manages Berkeley Lab for the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Science.

Berkeley Lab’s Postdoc Program is committed to providing Postdoctoral Researchers and Visiting scholars with a positive and impactful experience to jump-start their career through premium research and career development, networking opportunities, mentoring programs, and a strong community.  For more information, please visit our Berkeley Lab Postdoc Resources site and our Berkeley Lab Postdoc Association site.

Berkeley Lab is committed to Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Accountability (IDEA) and strives to continue building community with these shared values and commitments.

Berkeley Lab is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer. We heartily welcome applications from women, minorities, veterans, and all who would contribute to the Lab’s mission of leading scientific discovery, inclusion, and professionalism. In support of our diverse global community, all qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, or protected veteran status. 

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