A position is available at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, USA for a Post-doctoral Research Associate in the research project: Fungal Redox Mechanisms and Biomedical Pathogenesis.

Job Description

• Applications are invited for a 2-year Postdoctoral Research Associate to study fungal biochemistry/microbiology and how some unique non-enzymatic chemistries may have evolved in saprotrophic fungi to be active in human pathogenesis.
• The appointee is expected to function collaboratively to explore Basidiomycota fungal mechanisms for generation of oxygen radicals through non-enzymatic pathways, and exploration of non-enzymatic pathways in pathogenicity.
• Independent work in the lab is expected, and publication and grant preparation in collaboration with the PI of the Goodell Lab is expected.
• This is a benefited, 2-year, full-time Postdoctoral Research Associate position. Initial appointment is for one year with reappointment contingent upon job performance.

Primary responsibilities will include:

• Maintenance of fungal and mammalian cell cultures.
• Coordinate the safe and organized operation of a small laboratory group.
• Conduct biochemical assays to study redox cycling of isolated fungal compounds.
• Collaborate with UMassMed colleagues on Biomedical studies including work with mouse models and cell cultures.
• Conduct microscopic assays and use analytic instrumentation to assess oxygen radical generation and oxidative damage to cells.
• Training in specific lab techniques/procedures will be provided to the appointee as it is not anticipated that the appointee will have all the desired skills.

Requirements:  

• PhD in Biomedical Sciences, Biochemistry or Microbiology or other appropriate discipline. Chemistry and Biology doctorates are also acceptable with appropriate biochemical and biomedical/pathology background
• Ability to maintain fungal and mammalian cell cultures
• Training/Experience in applied molecular biology

Additional Desired Background/Skills*

• Organometallic chemistry and catalysis background
• Biomedical Sciences training/experience with laboratory animals
• Previous work or training in BSL 2 facilities
• Experience with comparative genomics/transcriptomics
• Analytical chemistry techniques experience (HPLC, Spectroscopy, NMR/EPR)
• Experience with Confocal and Electron Microscopy

*Training in these areas will be available for the appointee as appropriate

Additional Information:

The University of Massachusetts 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, the University of Massachusetts 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 University of Massachusetts to comply with the applicable federal and state statutes, rules, and regulations concerning equal opportunity and affirmative action.

Application Instructions:

Candidates must apply online by submitting a cover letter, CV, summary of research interests, and the contact details of three references willing to provide letters of recommendation. Review of applications will begin 25 October 2017 and continue until the position is filled.