Postdoctoral Fellow: metabolism of microbes and microbial communities in soils and sediments, USA

Another job opportunity.

Contact person:
Trent Northen
Principle Investigator, Berkeley Lab
1 Cyclotron Rd.
Berkeley Ca, 94720
website: ms.lbl.gov

Postdoc: 78083 - https://lbl.taleo.net/careersection/2/jo...ng=en&job=78083

Metabolomics Postdoctoral Fellow-78083
Organization
:LS-Life Sciences
Description

We seek to understand the metabolism of microbes and microbial communities in soils and sediments. This understanding will enable the development of models that can for example predict and mitigate the effects of climate change. Our group works as part of multidisciplinary teams to apply mass spectrometry based approaches to study microbial community metabolism. This includes using metabolomics approaches to study microbial community soil carbon transformations and dissecting these processes using analysis of isolate and consortia using metabolomics and metabolite imaging. This position will play a critical role in developing and applying state-of-the-art metabolomics workflows to improve our understanding of carbon cycling in soils.

SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES:
Under the general supervision of the Principal Investigator:
· Design experiments to understand microbial carbon cycling in soils
· Develop sample preparation approaches for complex microbial community samples
· Develop and apply state-of-the-art LC MS/MS methods for metabolite profiling
· Analyze and integrate results as part of a cross-disciplinary team.
· Publish scientific papers in peer-reviewed journals and present findings at seminars and conferences.
· Participate in development of grant proposals for new research directions and preparation of competing renewals of current research grants.
· Collaborate with other members of the program project research team both internal and external to Berkeley Lab and develop new collaborations as appropriate to further the scientific goals of the Program

Additional responsibilities:
· Collect field samples
· Perform mass spectrometry imaging to investigate microbial interactions

KEY SUCCESS FACTORS:
· Ph.D. within the last four years in soil science, microbial ecology, engineering, chemistry, biochemistry or related field
· Strong background in instrumentation
· A successful candidate must demonstrate one or more of the following:
· LC-MS/MS based metabolite analysis experience
· Outstanding experience in microbiology/microbial ecology
· Outstanding experience in soil microbiology or biochemistry
· Proven ability to perform independent research
· Proven ability to analyze data complex data
· Proven ability to organize results for publication and presentations.
· Outstanding technical writing skills.
· Excellent interpersonal skills including ability to interact effectively with technical and scientific staff.
· Ability to work independently and in a team environment.
· Demonstrated ability to creatively address complex problems.

Additional desired qualifications:
· LC-MS/MS based metabolite analysis experience
· Outstanding experience in microbiology/microbial ecology
· Outstanding experience in soil microbiology or biochemistry
· Soils and microbial ecology experience
· Matlab or related programming experienceMicrobiology experience
· Strong publication record.

NOTES: Berkeley Lab understands the postdoctoral experience in a research environment is unique. We are committed to the growth and development of early career researchers in pursuit of becoming next generation scientists and engineers.

This is a 1-year term appointment with the possibility of renewal for up to 5 years based upon satisfactory job performance, continuing availability of funds, and ongoing operational needs. Salary for post-doctoral positions depends on years of experience post-degree.

This position requires completion of a background check.

Berkeley Lab is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, age or protected veteran status.

TJS

Research Soil Scientist
USDA-ARS
National Laboratory for Agriculture and the Environment
2110 University Boulevard
Ames, IA 50011-3120
Voice (515)294-3416