Berkeley Lab’s (LBNL ) Environmental Genomics and Systems Biology (EGSB ) Division is looking for a Postdoctoral Fellow with expertise in Microbial Ecology, Genomics, Biochemistry, and a focus on understanding of the molecular basis of Plant-Microbe Interactions, Carbon, and Nitrogen cycles.
In this role, you will use highly controlled laboratory ecosystems (EcoPODs ), Microbial Genomics, Transcriptomics, Metabolomics, Synthetic Biology, and model microbial communities to identify relationships between rhizosphere microorganisms, plant chemistry, greenhouse gas emissions and biogeochemical cycles. The main goal of this project is to dissect factors defining Plant-Microbe Interactions and their role in nutrient cycling in the rhizosphere.

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

What You Will Do:

• Design and execute laboratory and greenhouse experiments with plants and microorganisms.
• Analyze Microbial Genomics, Transcriptomics and Metabolomics Data.
• Measure greenhouse gasses in Plant-Microbe systems.
• Develop and perform biochemical assays.
• Keep precise and detailed laboratory notebooks, maintain and manage all resources generated throughout the project.
• Publish research results in peer-reviewed journals.
• Present results to internal groups and at national meetings.

What is Required:

• A recent Ph.D. (within the last 1-3 years) in Microbiology, Biochemistry, Genomics, Molecular Biology, or a related field. 
• Experience culturing and characterizing environmental microorganisms and model microbial communities. 
• Experience with basic molecular biology techniques such as DNA/RNA extraction, qPCR, and sample preparation for sequencing. 
• Experience in computational skills for the analysis of genomics and transcriptomics data. 
• Experience in monitoring greenhouse gasses in plant-microbe systems. 
• 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:

• Strong data analysis skills using Python and/or R.
• Experience with imaging of fluorescently labeled microbial communities (e.g., recombinant fluorescent protein expression, FISH).
• Understanding of rhizosphere biology and plant-microbe interactions.

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.
• Work will be performed onsite at West Berkeley Biocenter (Potter St.) — Bldg. 977, 717 Potter St., Berkeley, CA 94710.

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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