Visiting Research Technician - Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology at University of Illinois in Urbana, Illinois

Job Description:

Visiting Research Technician - Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology




Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology




Job Summary

The Visiting Research Technician will assist with experiments to develop soybean and cowpea lines with improved light profiles and greater photosynthetic potential.



Duties & Responsibilities

• Maintain field plots (weeding, staking plots, monitoring GMO trials, etc)
• Monitor leaf anatomical characteristics, plant development, biomass and seed weight in field-grown plants
• Physiological measurements of greenhouse/growth chamber and field grown plants (photosynthesis, respiration, chlorophyll fluorescence, and transpiration)
• Assist with molecular measurements of plants (i.e., DNA/RNA/protein extraction and quantification)
• Keep detailed written reports of these experiments, and archive data obtained
• Undertake data entry, processing, and statistical analysis of the gathered data, and provide written summaries of these statistical analyses

Additional Physical Demands

Work is performed in a laboratory and a field setting. Successful candidates must be able to work in agricultural fields in Central Illinois in the summer. You will be a vital part of a team committed to the development of germplasm that will be freely available to and will lead to better seed for poor farmers in sub-Saharan Africa and SE Asia, supported by the Realizing Increased Photosynthetic Efficiency (RIPE) project. We are particularly interested in candidates who will share our commitment to achieving this goal.



Minimum Qualifications



B.S. degree in crop sciences, biology, genetics, molecular biology, natural resources, environmental sciences or other related disciplines; field research experience; and experience working on a research team



Preferred Qualifications



Laboratory research experience including adherence to safety protocols and understanding of current research methodologies.



Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Background in plant sciences.
• Enthusiasm for research in photosynthesis.
• Ability to work independently but also as part of a team.
• Ability to learn standard operating procedures for monitoring plant development, DNA/RNA extraction, nucleotide quantification, gas exchange, chlorophyll fluorescence, canopy light interception and other physiological techniques.
• Well-developed active listening and written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency with computers, especially Excel MSOffice.
• Ability to maintain written records.
• Willingness to learn and in turn train others
• Proactive in problem solving; self-sufficient.
• Preferred knowledge of quantitative genetics.
• Preferred knowledge in statistics and experimental designs and supporting software (R).
• Prior work experience and knowledge with operating plant physiology-related equipment such as infrared gas analyzers and line ceptometers.

This visiting position will be appointed on a yearly basis, and may be renewable annually during the start of the academic year; subject to periodic reviews that include continued participation in theme-related activities, compliance with university policies, and upholding of IGB's commitment to providing an inclusive, diverse, and welcoming environment.



Appointment Information


This is a 100% full-time Visiting Academic Professional position, appointed on a 12-month basis. The expected start date is as soon as possible after 11/7/2024. The budgeted salary range is $42,000 to $48,000 annually. Salary is competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience, while also considering internal equity.



Application Procedures & Deadline Information


Applications must be received by 6:00 pm (Central Time) on December 2, 2024. Apply for this position using the Apply Now button at the top or bottom of this posting. Applications not submitted through https://jobs.illinois.edu will not be considered. For further information about this specific position, please contact Lisa Emerson at lemerson@illinois.edu. For questions regarding the application process, please contact 217-333-2137.


The University of Illinois System is an equal opportunity employer, including but not limited to disability and/or veteran status, and complies with all applicable state and federal employment mandates. Please visit Required Employment Notices and Posters to view our non-discrimination statement and find additional information about required background checks, sexual harassment/misconduct disclosures, and employment eligibility review through E-Verify .

Applicants with disabilities are encouraged to apply and may request a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (2008) to complete the application and/or interview process. Accommodations may also be requested on the basis of pregnancy, childbirth, and related conditions, or religion. Requests may be submitted through the reasonable accommodations portal , or by contacting the Accessibility & Accommodations Division of the Office for Access and Equity at 217-333-0885, or by emailing accessibility@illinois.edu .


Requisition ID: 1027865
Job Category: Research
Apply at: https://jobs.illinois.edu
Apply Now