Plant-Microbe-Soil Interactions Postdoctoral Scholar

Berkeley Lab’s Climate & Ecosystems Division has an opening for a Plant-Microbe-Soil Interactions Postdoctoral Scholar with expertise in plant biology, biogeochemistry, biochemistry and microbiology and a focus on understanding the role of microbial adaptation to local environmental niches in rhizosphere and consequent feedbacks to plant. The position will emphasize making the link between highly controlled laboratory systems and reliable field observations with the goal to develop understanding and tools to recreate rhizosphere model systems within fabricated ecosystems in the laboratory to test hypotheses about functions of community members. The successful candidate will work with an interdisciplinary team performing field experiments, developing model laboratory ecosystems using defined microbial communities or reduced complexity consortia. 

What You Will Do:

• Perform field experiments and develop model laboratory ecosystems to test hypotheses about functions of community members.

• Analyze genomic data and perform basic chemical analysis and spectroscopy techniques.

• Collaborate with other researchers on this project in order to facilitate progress toward program goals. Assist in writing project reports and updates

• Publish research results in peer-reviewed journals.

• Present research results to internal groups and at national and international meetings. 

Additionally, the Postdoc Scholar may:

• Mentor undergraduates and junior scientists.

• Assist with day to day lab maintenance.

What is Required:

• Ph.D in Environmental Microbiology, Biogeochemistry, Soil Science, Biochemistry, Plant and microbial biology or a closely related field. Significant laboratory and analytical experience.

• Experience  in computational skills for analysis of genomic data.

• Experience in growing different plants from seeds.

• Experience with cultivating diverse soil/rhizosphere microbes.

• Experience with basic chemical analysis and spectroscopic techniques.

• Knowledge of working with analytical instruments to monitor microbial metabolites.

• Ability to work effectively with scientists of different disciplinary backgrounds and serve as a communication nexus.

• Ability to work carefully but efficiently in order to meet project goals in a timely manner

Desired Qualifications:

• Modeling experience.

• Field work experience.

• Experience with latest and analytical spectroscopic approaches.

• Laboratory experience with microcosm/microfluidic design, construction, and operation.

The posting shall remain open until the position is filled.

Notes:

• This is a full time, 18 month, postdoctoral appointment with the possibility of renewal based upon satisfactory job performance, continuing availability of funds and ongoing operational needs. You must have less than 3 years paid postdoctoral experience. Salary for Postdoctoral positions depends on years of experience post-degree.

• This position is represented by a union for collective bargaining purposes.

• Salary will be predetermined based on postdoctoral step rates.

• This position may be subject to a background check. Any convictions will be evaluated to determine if they directly relate to the responsibilities and requirements of the position. Having a conviction history will not automatically disqualify an applicant from being considered for employment.

• Work will be primarily performed at: West Berkeley Biocenter (Potter St.) — Bldg. 977, 717 Potter St., Berkeley, CA.

Learn About Us:

Working at Berkeley Lab has many rewards including a competitive compensation program, excellent health and welfare programs, a retirement program that is second to none, and outstanding development opportunities.  To view information about the many rewards that are offered at Berkeley Lab- Click Here.

Berkeley Lab (LBNL) addresses the world’s most urgent scientific challenges by advancing sustainable energy, protecting human health, creating new materials, and revealing the origin and fate of the universe. Founded in 1931, Berkeley Lab’s scientific expertise has been recognized with 13 Nobel prizes. The University of California manages Berkeley Lab for the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Science.

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