Job Description

Position Summary

The Rhee Lab is seeking applications from talented college graduates for a 2-3 year Research Assistant (RA) position. This position is ideal for post-bacs who want to enter a career in research.

The Rhee Lab’s aim is to uncover the molecular mechanisms of plant adaptation to environmental stresses. Our studies are diverse, ranging from computational modeling of metabolic networks to characterization of novel plant genes with no similarity to any known genes. We work with several organisms (including grasses, cover crops, and desert plants), but much of the lab’s work centers around the model Arabidopsis thaliana. The Rhee Lab recently embarked on characterizing novel proteins and understanding the process of seed dehydration and rehydration, in which the RA would be a key member.

The Rhee Lab believes in the importance of mentorship and scientific storytelling. We believe synergistic interactions are the key to securing funding and publishing exciting papers. Our group is tight-knit, highly interdisciplinary, and fosters a supportive environment where trainees can grow as scientists before taking the next step in their careers. As a member of the Rhee Lab, the RA will be trained in molecular biology techniques, plant-specific transformation techniques, microscopy and computational tools. Rhee Lab RAs will work closely with several lab members, with opportunities to participate in grant writing, publications, reports and presentations. The hired RA will also be responsible for some lab management and maintenance duties. As a full-time member of the Rhee Lab, RAs will meet with Dr. Sue Rhee regularly in a 1-on-1 setting to discuss progress, set targets and receive feedback.

The hired RA will also contribute to the development, coordination, and execution of outreach activities for K-12, undergraduate, and public audiences. The Rhee Lab is a major contributor to Water and Life Interface Institute (WALII), Plant Resilience Institute (PRI), Plant Cell Atlas (PCA), and Plant Metabolic Network (PMN) outreach initiatives.

We are looking for a highly motivated and organized senior student or recent graduate with a BS/BA in biology, biochemistry, or related fields. This position is particularly relevant for students seeking more laboratory research experience before applying to graduate school. Experience in molecular biology or biochemistry is highly desirable, but no previous plant biology experience is needed. Applicants must be motivated to deliver quality work, pay attention to details, have the ability to think critically to solve problems, have excellent communication skills and a team-driven mindset.

Minimum Requirements

Knowledge equivalent to that which normally would be acquired by completing a four-year college degree program in the specific field of research employment or other related science fields; one to three years of related and progressively more responsible or expansive work experience in standard laboratory procedures and safety requirements and performing analytical and research techniques in an area related to research being performed; may require software specific to the area of research; or an equivalent combination of education and experience. The position may require special licensing or certification in the field related to the area of employment.

Desired Qualifications

Experience in molecular biology or biochemistry

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Required Application Materials

Resume/CV

Cover Letter

Names and Contact Information for Three (3) Professional References 

Special Instructions

Contact Dr. Sue Rhee (rheeseu6@msu.edu) for additional questions about the position

Work Hours

STANDARD 8-5

Description of End Date

This is an off-dated position funded for one year from the date of hire with possible extension contingent upon funding renewal.

Website

Bidding eligibility ends October 8, 2024 at 11:55 P.M.

About Michigan State University

Spartans work every day to advance the common good in uncommon ways.Together, we tackle some of the world?s toughest problems to find solutions that make life better?from alternative energy to better food safety to breakthrough medical and environmental applications achieved through rare isotope research.We teach. We explore and we discover. We collaborate and lead. We innovate, inspire, and empower. We achieve our potential and create circumstances that help our students and others achieve theirs.We're good at it, and we've been at it for more than 150 years.The nation?s pioneer land-grant university, MSU began as a bold experiment that democratized higher education and helped bring science and innovation into everyday life. The revolutionary concept became a model for the nation.Today, MSU is one of the top research universities in the world?on one of the biggest, greenest campuses in the nation. Home to nationally ranked and recognized academic, residential college, and service-learning programs, we?re a diverse community of dedicated students and scholars, athletes and artists, scientists and leaders.In ways both practical and profound, we work to create a stronger, more sustainable, and more hopeful future for all.

Connections working at Michigan State University

Job Tags

Full time, Traineeship, Work experience placement,

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