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Postdoctoral Associate (Biochemist) - Hunter Lab

Employer
Howard Hughes Medical Institute
Location
Davis, CA
Closing date
Aug 6, 2022

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Primary Work Address: One Shields Avenue, Davis, CA, 95616

Current HHMI Employees, click here to apply via your Workday account.

We are currently looking for a collaborative, self-motivated Postdoctoral Associate to work in the laboratory of Dr. Neil Hunter at the University of California, Davis in Davis, CA. The Hunter lab performs world-leading research in reproductivebiology, focused on the process of meiosis. The lab synthesizesbiochemical, moleculargenetics and cell biology approaches, with yeast,mouse and cell/tissue/organ culture models, to understand how chromosomes are accurately distributed intogametes cells. Their major focus is the DNA-repair mechanism called homologous recombination, which is adapted during meiosis to facilitate chromosome pairing and segregation. They strive to understand the molecular mechanisms and regulation of recombination and the influence of genetics and the environment on this essential process, including gender, sexual maturation, aging and chemical contamination. More information about Dr. Hunter and the lab can be found at https://hunterlab.ucdavis.edu/ and https://biology.ucdavis.edu/people/neil-hunter.

The Postdoctoral Associate will conduct research to elucidate the mechanisms and regulation of homologous recombinationduring meiosis. The chosen candidate will also be expected to collaborate with other group members and extramural scientists when appropriate; and actively contribute and participate withinthe laboratory group. The primary worksite location is the Hunter laboratory located in Briggs Hall. The chosen candidate will receive extensive specialized training and be afforded ample opportunity to develop an independent research program.This is an excellent opportunity for someone with specific skills, knowledge, andexperience in one or more of the following areas: biochemistry, proteomics, cell biology, and/or molecular genetics.

UC Davis provides a unique research environmentfor studying homologous recombination and meiosis with over 45 groups working on various aspects of chromosome biology, DNA repair, and reproductive biology with expertise covering the gamut of techniques from single-molecule biophysics through proteomics, genomics, super-resolution imaging, organoid culture, and whole-animal transgenics. The Hunter lab is proud to be part of this diverse and inclusive environment that fosters collaboration and cooperation amongst its members. Quality of life in Davis is unsurpassed with its college-town vibe and easy access to the great outdoors (https://www.ucdavis.edu/campus-life/californias-college-town).

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

RESEARCH AND TRAINING(85%)
Research Activity(70%)

The candidate will make original, creative, and fundamentalcontributions to research projects in meiotic recombination. Thiswill be done in close collaboration and consultation with Dr. Hunter, members of his laboratory, and outside collaborators. The candidate will be responsible for project development and implementation,including experimental design, coordination with collaborators and contractors,data reduction and final report. They will supervise students andtechniciansand guide them ontechniques and methodology, the proper use of equipment, interpretation of results, troubleshooting, and developing future directions.
Specifically, the candidate will work in one or more of the following areas:

a. biochemical and proteomics analysis of protein modification by SUMO, ubiquitin and phosphorylation with a focus on pro-crossover E3 ligases and kinases, and their targets.

b. biochemical analysis of double-Holliday junction formation and resolution.

Publications(10%)
The candidate will publish research results in peer-reviewedjournals, books and other forums either independently or in collaboration withthe P.I. orother members of the research team.

Grant Acquisition(5%)
The candidate will assist in securing project funding byresearching, writing and editing grant requests and progress reports incollaboration with the P.I.

PROFESSIONAL COMPETENCE (10%)
The candidate will participate in relevant conferences, and thereview of research proposals and scientific publications as appropriate. Projectresults willbe presented at seminars, meetings and conferences in universities and other public forums.

UNIVERSITY AND PUBLICSERVICE (5%)
The candidate will engage in universityservice activities such as guest lecturing and committee service. They willalso help the PI supervisejunior researchers.

Qualifications

Education
A Ph.D. in an area related to biochemistry, proteomics, or molecular genetics is required.

Experience
We are looking for candidates with experience managing an independent research project to completion and publication. Experience with a variety of relevant scientific techniques is strongly preferred.

Skills and Abilities
  • Ability to learn quickly and to work well both independently and as part of a team.
  • Ability to work effectively with a wide variety of people from all backgrounds.
  • Ability to train, mentor, and supervise research technicians, students, and other entry-level lab staff.
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills.
  • High level of professionalism and excellent interpersonal skills.
  • Positive attitude with a problem-solving mindset.


Application Instructions
Please include the following items as part of your application (preferably as a single PDF):
  • A cover letter including a summary of your research experience and your interest in this particular role.
  • Your curriculum vitae including list of publications.
  • Names and contact information for three professional references.


Physical Requirements

Remaining in a normal seated or standing position for extended periods of time; reaching and grasping by extending hand(s) or arm(s); dexterity to manipulate objects with fingers, for example using a keyboard; communication skills using the spoken word; ability to see and hear within normal parameters; ability to move about workspace. The position requires mobility, including the ability to move materials weighing up to several pounds (such as a laptop computer or tablet).

Persons with disabilities may be able to perform the essential duties of this position with reasonable accommodation. Requests for reasonable accommodation will be evaluated on an individual basis.

Please Note:

This job description sets forth the job's principal duties, responsibilities, and requirements; it should not be construed as an exhaustive statement, however. Unless they begin with the word "may," the Essential Duties and Responsibilities described above are "essential functions" of the job, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Compensation and Benefits

Our employees are compensated from a total rewards perspective in many ways for their contributions to our mission, including competitive pay, exceptional health benefits, retirement plans, time off, and a range of recognition and wellness programs. Visit our Benefits at HHMI site to learn more.

HHMI is an Equal Opportunity Employer

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