Update: the position is filled! Please check back in January 2021…
The DeAngelis Lab is seeking an undergraduate research assistant to collaborate on research investigating microbial evolution in response to environmental warming. The goal of this project is to describe adaptation of soil bacteria to long-term warming using computational (e.g. comparative genomics) and laboratory approaches (e.g. microbial physiology). The ideal candidate has a passion for microbiology/microbial ecology & evolution, strong problem and critical thinking skills, and a desire to learn new techniques. While lab experience (including coursework) is desirable, previous experience is not required. Training will be provided for all required tasks. The candidate is expected to contribute to on-going projects and design and execute independent work.
***Underrepresented and minoritized students are highly encouraged to apply.
Job Description
- 6-8 hours per week (negotiable, but between 9AM-5PM Monday-Friday). Hourly at $XX/hr or Independent Study credits required.
- Start date Summer or Fall semester 2020, negotiable. The ideal candidate is willing and available to commit at least 2 full semesters to the team. Due to COVID-19, initial work will be remote, with the intention of transitioning to on-campus lab work when that is reasonable and safe.
- Computational duties include data entry, QC, organization. Analyze microbial growth assay data and generate summary figures and reports. Analyze whole genome sequence data and perform comparative genomics and phylogenetic analyses with guidance.
- Lab duties include cultivation of soil bacteria and extraction of high-quality genomic DNA for sequencing. Develop, perform, and analyze microbial growth assays designed to identify adaptive traits.
- Contribute to publications or scientific presentations through data or figure generation. Authorship or co-authorship is highly encouraged. In addition, Independent Study students will write a scientific report each semester, or a thesis.
Required Qualifications
- Academic coursework in Biology, Microbiology, or Plant & Soil Science or similar field.
- Excellent written and oral communication skills.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
- Contribute to a positive and supportive team environment that promotes inclusion and equity.
- Familiarity with programing languages such as R or python (preferred, not required).
- Experience with laboratory methods including sterile technique, microbial cultivation, molecular biology (e.g. DNA extraction) (preferred, not required).
Kristen DeAngelis 