Research Fellow - Fritz-Laylin Lab

About UMass Amherst UMass Amherst, the Commonwealth's flagship campus, is a nationally ranked public research university offering a full range of undergraduate, graduate and professional degrees. The University sits on nearly 1,450-acres in the scenic Pioneer Valley of Western Massachusetts, and offers a rich cultural environment in a bucolic setting close to major urban centers. In addition, the University is part of the Five Colleges (including Amherst College, Hampshire College, Mount Holyoke College, and Smith College), which adds to the intellectual energy of the region. Job Summary The Fritz-Laylin Lab (www.fritzlaylinlab.org) at the University of Massachusetts Amherst is recruiting a Research Fellow with molecular biology experience. The Fritz-Laylin lab works at the interface of evolutionary and quantitative cell biology to explore the specification and diversification of cytoskeletal phenotypes. These efforts require developing molecular tools for little studied organisms with unique evolutionary relationships and cell behaviors. The successful candidate will initially focus on developing and adapting methods for genetic manipulation of microbial eukaryotes. Experience working with non-model organisms is NOT required but the successful candidate will be able to quickly learn how to apply their knowledge of common experimental techniques to new systems. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to work closely with the PI but is also expected to be proactive and independent, and able to work both individually and collaboratively. Dr. Fritz-Laylin is committed to helping all lab members build the skills needed to achieve their long-term career goals. Such skills include biological knowledge, technical and analytical methods, project management, as well as science communication in the form of oral presentations, scientific publication, and grant writing. Dr. Fritz-Laylin meets with lab members weekly to discuss research progress and training needs. Enthusiastic applicants with diverse perspectives who wish to join a dynamic research group are encouraged to apply! Essential Functions Examples of duties: * Molecular cloning. * Translating gene expression technologies to non-model organisms. * Measuring gene expression. * Active participation in laboratory meetings is required of all lab members. Other Functions * Work collaboratively and effectively to promote teamwork, diversity, equality and inclusiveness. * Work in partnership with colleagues within the CNS community and across the campus to support the Dean's strategic priorities. * Perform other duties as assigned in support of the mission and goals of the College of Natural Sciences. Minimum Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, Education, Experience, Certifications, Licensure) * Bachelor's degree in Biology or related discipline. * A minimum of 3 years hands-on laboratory experience. Preferred Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, Education, Experience, Certifications, Licensure) * Working knowledge of molecular biology techniques such as: Southern/Western blotting, Advanced molecular cloning (e.g. Gibson, GoldenGate, Ligation independent cloning), RNA handling, Genetic transformation (e.g. Agrobacterium-mediated, biolistics, electroporation, transduction), and/or Gene editing (e.g. CRISPR/Cas9). * Candidates with previous experience developing molecular genetic tools for fungi, algae, or emerging model systems would be highly competitive. Work Schedule Monday - Friday 9:00am - 5:00pm, 40 hours/week, 100% FTE. Salary Information Salary will be commensurate with experience. Special Instructions to Applicants Submit a cover letter, CV, and the contact details of three references willing to provide letters of recommendation. Apply by July 1, 2021 in order to ensure priority consideration. Search may remain open until a suitable candidate pool has been identified. As part of a commitment to their own multicultural community, CNS seeks an individual with a demonstrated commitment to diversity and one who will understand and embrace university initiatives and aspirations. (https://www.cns.umass.edu/diversity-equity-inclusion) UMass Amherst is committed to a policy of equal opportunity without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, age, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, disability, military status, or genetic information in employment, admission to and participation in academic programs, activities, and services, and the selection of vendors who provide services or products to the University. To fulfill that policy, UMass Amherst is further committed to a program of affirmative action to eliminate or mitigate artificial barriers and to increase opportunities for the recruitment and advancement of qualified minorities, women, persons with disabilities, and covered veterans. It is the policy of the UMass Amherst to comply with the applicable federal and state statutes, rules, and regulations concerning equal opportunity and affirmative action. Advertised: Jun 1 2021 Eastern Daylight Time Applications close:

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