Three Open Positions (move fast they won’t be open forever!)
FOCUS. The Key to our work
Work on Plant Synthetic Biology-THE defining technology for the 21st Century. If you are interested in the Post-doctoral Position or Research Associate: Please email your resume with contact information for three references to: Ashley Brandal (Ashley.Brandal@colostate.edu).
We use synthetic biology to re-design plants with useful traits and understand fundamental question about natural processes. We are expanding plant synthetic biology to broader areas such bioenergy and biological input-output systems. As one example, we provide input with computer designed receptors that activates a plant synthetic signal transduction pathway and a transcriptional response and are using the tools of synthetic biology to further the approach. Because our system is constructed of modular and standardized parts we can re-assemble the system to ask how native molecules work. For details please see: http://wp.natsci.colostate.edu/medfordlab/ . The synthetic signal transduction system or biological input-output pathway is directed to producing a specific output. The output could accumulation of biofuels, flowering or a visual response. Our system is modular and by making chimeric molecules (e.g., synthetic::natural) we are able dissect fundamental processes normally used by plants. We are developing digital controls (positive feedback loops, toggle switches) to allow precise regulation of our synthetic traits.
1. Post-Doctoral Positions:
Experience in Synthetic Biology, Plant Molecular Biology, Bacterial work, cloning, and/or design of synthetic genes and gene circuits desired. Experience in Biochemistry and protein structure function is valued. For post-doctoral positions, a Ph.D. in molecular biology, cell biology plant molecular biology or a related field is required. Ideal applicants will have experience in molecular biology, plant cell biology or gene cloning. Experience with transgenic plants is helpful but not essential. Well-developed skills in written and verbal communication are desirable. The incumbents are expected to interact with other post-docs, graduate students, and undergraduate students. Duties include a variety, molecular biology techniques, cell biology studies, synthetic gene construction, bacterial expression, production and analysis of transgenic plants, planning experimental approaches based on research literature, and interpreting results. The successful individuals will be self-motivated and capable of independent thought and research.
2. Research Associate: A Master’s Degree or Bachelor’s Degree in the Biosciences, Biochemistry, Plant Biology or a related field is required. Experience in lab work with cloning, molecular biology, tissue culture, is highly desired. We’ll help you grow and teach you what you need.
3. Program Aide:
Want to join us in a part time position? We have an opening! Qualifications: Must have Bachelor’s or higher degree in Biology, Molecular Biology or Biochemistry or a related field. Ability to write scientific and technical reports and attention to detail is required. Experience and background in molecular biology or biochemistry or related field is highly desired. Must be proficient in MS applications (Word, Powerpoint, Excel).
Salary is commensurate with experience and includes benefits.
To apply for THIS POSITION ONLY: Upload cover letter, CV, and a list of three references at: http://cns.natsci.colostate.edu/employment/BioPA/ Incomplete applications will not be considered. For full consideration, complete applications must be received by November 12, 2012
The Medford lab is located in the Biology Department at Colorado State University in Fort Collins, Colorado. Fort Collins is a city of 130,000 located at the base of the Rocky Mountains about an hour north of Denver. Colorado boasts 300+ sunny days a year and numerous recreational activities exist from the nearby mountains such as world class skiing and hiking.
Colorado State University is an EO/EA/AA employee.
Colorado State University conducts background checks on all final candidates.