Post Doctoral Associate (Rongo)

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Support research in an externally funded program investigating neuronal stress responses and the hypoxia-response. The Rongo laboratory within the Waksman Institute, joint with the Department of Genetics, conducts molecular, genetic, cell biological, and biochemical research on questions related to nervous system function and hypoxic stress response. An individual is needed who can conduct research on questions related to how organisms respond to hypoxic stress and nervous system function using the model organism C. elegans. The individual will report directly to the laboratory Principle Investigator (PI).

An education in the life sciences is required in order for the individual to effectively teach genetics, biochemistry, and molecular biology to undergraduates in the lab setting. The research projects cover a large span of life science topics and technical approaches, including genetics, biochemistry, cell biology, neurobiology, and molecular biology.

Support research in an externally funded program investigating neuronal stress responses and the hypoxia-response. The Rongo laboratory within the Waksman Institute, joint with the Department of Genetics, conducts molecular, genetic, cell biological, and biochemical research on questions related to nervous system function and hypoxic stress response. An individual is needed who can conduct research on questions related to how organisms respond to hypoxic stress and nervous system function using the model organism C. elegans. The individual will report directly to the laboratory Principle Investigator (PI).

Must be familiar with Microsoft Office and Adobe Photoshop. Must be familiar with epifluorescence microscopes, gel electrophoresis, RNA isolation systems, PCR machines, autoclaves, Apple computers, Windows PC's, electrophoresis equipment, and protein purification systems (e.g., tissue homogenization and chromatography).

Able to stand, lift, bend. Able to occasionally lift and/or carry objects weighing up to 25 pounds. Able to reach and grasp with arms and hands. Work involves possible exposure to malodorous vapors and toxic chemicals. Long periods of standing and/or sitting.

KEY DUTIES:

85% Conduct grant-funded research as directed by the PI (Dr. Rongo). This research will include performing C. elegans genetic analysis, biochemical experiments, recombinant DNA techniques, phenotypic analysis, epifluorescence microscopy, confocal microscopy, high throughput genomics, high throughput proteomics (e.g., mass spectrometry), and high throughput metabolomics. It is expected that the research findings will be published, with the individual contributing to the writing and production of the resulting manuscript. It is expected that the research findings will be provided as preliminary data for grant proposals, with the individual contributing to the writing and production of such proposals.

15% Train and oversee undergraduate researchers within the lab on related projects. This training will include showing undergraduates the methodologies of C. elegans husbandry and genetics, recombinant DNA techniques, protein biochemistry, microscopy, high throughput genomics and analysis, Powerpoint oral presentation of data, poster presentation of data, proper record and notebook keeping, and basic laboratory techniques. It is expected that trained students will have clear guidance and training on projects, and that they will grow towards independence under this mentorship.

Preferred Qualifications: Experience with C. elegans genetics, experience studying the hypoxia response pathway, experience studying nervous system function and development, experience studying metabolism, experience studying transcriptional and translational responses and regulation, experience with training undergraduates in a laboratory setting.