Job Summary:
Research Specialist to assist in chemical studies of the origins of life and astrobiology.
About the research project: This NSF-funded project is entitled "From ecological dynamics to adaptive evolution during the origin of life." The overall aim is to use theoretical and laboratory studies to better understand how chemical systems on the early earth transitioned from ecological to evolutionary dynamics and how this can explain the origin of life. The Research Specialist hired would focus primarily on conducting laboratory experiments and providing technical support for other experiments conducted by other members of the team. The bulk of the work will involve assembling chemical mixtures pertinent to origins of life, conducting serial transfer experiments, and tracking changes using diverse chemical analysis methods, but especially liquid chromatography - mass-spectrometry. This research is broadly interdisciplinary and addresses one of the most significant unanswered scientific questions: How does life emerge?
About Wisconsin Institute for Discovery (WID): Our mission is to discover and inspire through interdisciplinary research conducted in a dynamic, collaborative community. WID advances frontiers of knowledge, accelerates development of solutions, and engages the State of Wisconsin through interdisciplinary research. The Baum lab uses a combination of theoretical and computational research bridging chemistry, physics, ecology, and evolutionary biology with laboratory research on the emergence of ecological and evolutionary dynamics in simple chemical systems.
Responsibilities:
Develops, designs, and conducts one or more research projects and organizes daily operation of projects and specialized research areas to ensure work meets established objectives under moderate supervision.
• 50% Conducts research experiments according to established research protocols with moderate impact to the project(s). Collects data and monitors test results
• 25% Operates, cleans, and maintains organization of research equipment and research area. Tracks inventory levels and places replenishment orders
• 10% Reviews, analyzes, and interprets data and/or documents results for presentations and/or reporting to internal and external audiences
• 5% Participates in the development, interpretation, and implementation of research methodology and materials
• 5% Provides operational guidance on day-to-day activities of unit or program staff and/or student workers
• 5% Performs literature reviews and writes reports
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Education:
Preferred
Bachelor's Degree in science, preferably in the chemical or biological sciences
Qualifications:
Required:
1. At least one year of experience working in a wet-lab environment.
2. Experience with at least one kind of relevant analytical chemistry method e.g., (LC-MS, NMR).
3. Coursework or research experience in either analytical chemistry, evolutionary biology, or both.
Preferred:
1. Experience in metabolomic or proteomic analysis and/or exposure to origins of life or astrobiology research.
Work Type:
Full Time: 100%
It is anticipated this position requires work be performed in-person, onsite, at a designated campus work location.
Appointment Type, Duration:
Ongoing/Renewable
Salary:
Minimum $46,000 ANNUAL (12 months)
Depending on Qualifications
The typical starting salary for this position is $46,000 to $63,697 depending on qualifications and experience. The full salary range for this position is $46,000 to $82,851.
Employees in this position can expect to receive benefits such as generous vacation, holidays and paid time off; competitive insurances and saving accounts; and retirement benefits.
Additional Information:
It may be possible to work remotely (20 or 40%) if you have sufficient expertise with mass-spectrometry analysis and can do that work without being on site.
How to Apply:
To apply for this position, please click on the "Apply Now" button.
You will be asked to upload a current resume/CV and a cover letter briefly describing how you meet the minimum and preferred qualifications for the position. You will also be asked to provide contact information for three (3) references, including your current/most recent supervisor during the application process. References will not be contacted without prior notice.
Contact:
Johnny Wertz
johnny.wertz@wisc.edu
608-316-4496
Relay Access (WTRS): 7-1-1. See RELAY_SERVICE for further information.
Official Title:
Research Specialist(RE047)
Department(s):
A34-OVCR/WID/WI INST DISC
Employment Class:
Academic Staff-Renewable
Job Number:
304073-AS
The University of Wisconsin-Madison is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer.
Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to, including but not limited to, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, pregnancy, disability, or status as a protected veteran and other bases as defined by federal regulations and UW System policies. We promote excellence through diversity and encourage all qualified individuals to apply. For more information regarding applicant and employee rights and to view federal and state required postings, click here
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Madison WI United States