Research Associate 1 - Biology

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The University of Miami's College of Arts and Sciences has an exciting opportunity for a full time Research Associate 1 to work in Coral Gables, FL.  

The Wilson Lab seeks a Research Associate for an NSF-funded project testing the hypothesis that mTORC1 acts as a master regulator of the aphid/Buchnera endosymbiosis. Aphids house Buchnera in specialized bacteriocytes and must coordinate bacterial population growth with their own development and reproduction across generations. We are asking whether a conserved nutrient-sensing pathway is the mechanism that makes that coordination possible — a question at the intersection of cell biology and the evolution of symbiosis that has not been addressed directly in any insect system.

This is a laboratory-based position carried out as part of a collaborative research team. The Research Associate will contribute to experiments across the project, with a central focus on microinjection and microdissection of aphids, and will share responsibility for maintaining the lab’s aphid colonies and host plants, which requires reliable attention on a regular schedule, including some weekends.

This position is well suited for someone preparing for graduate school or developing a technical research career.

Prior work on insects or symbiosis is not expected. What matters is curiosity about how endosymbioses are regulated and a willingness to work in a system where some of the tools are still being built. The successful candidate will join the Wilson Lab within the Host-Microbe Interactions (HoMI) Laboratory, part of the Symbiosis@UM cluster in the Department of Biology, on the Coral Gables Campus of the University of Miami.

What the position offers:
The Research Associate will receive hands-on training in confocal microscopy, digital droplet PCR, and the microinjection and microdissection of insects, contribute to publications as a co-author, and work alongside undergraduate researchers in the lab. Candidates intending to pursue graduate training will be supported with mentoring and letters of recommendation. The University of Miami provides institutional access to career development resources for all employees.

To apply:
Please submit a CV and a cover letter describing your fit for the position and your career goals, including the names and contact information for two references. A full list of Wilson Lab publications is available on Google Scholar under Alex C C Wilson.

Core responsibilities:

• Understands and interprets research protocols and procedures.
• Participates in the publication of significant results.
• Maintains an overview of relevant research findings.
• Ensures all research is undertaken according to good research practice.
• Keeps abreast of current publications relative to methods, techniques, and developments within the area of research.
• Collects, prepares, analyzes, dissects, and evaluates specimens or tissue cultures.
• Operates and maintains laboratory equipment.
• Performs a variety of routine assays, tests, and studies.
• Performs calculations to complete research test results, collects data, and performs statistical analysis of laboratory results.
• Adheres to University and unit-level policies and procedures and safeguards University assets.

This list of duties and responsibilities is not intended to be all-inclusive and may be expanded to include other duties or responsibilities as necessary.

Core Qualifications:

• B.S. in biology, biochemistry, microbiology, or a related life science at time of hire.
• Careful, consistent bench technique and accurate record-keeping.
• The ability to work with limited day-to-day supervision as part of a multidisciplinary team.
•  At least one year of undergraduate research experience in a laboratory setting, or equivalent preferred.
• Standard molecular biology methods (nucleic acid extraction, PCR, gel electrophoresis) preferred.
• Light or fluorescence microscopy preferred.
• Rearing or handling of insects or other invertebrates preferred.
• Basic quantitative skills preferred.
• Learning Agility: Ability to learn new procedures, technologies, and protocols, and adapt to changing priorities and work demands.
• Teamwork: Ability to work collaboratively with others and contribute to a team environment.
• Technical Proficiency: Skilled in using office software, technology, and relevant computer applications.
• Communication: Strong and clear written and verbal communication skills for interacting with colleagues and stakeholders.

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