Job: Junior Research Associate/Lab Manager

Department: DPB – Plant Biology

Salary: $70,000 – $80,000

Location: Stanford, CA

The Burlacot Lab in the Biosphere Sciences and Engineering Division at the Carnegie Institution for Science is seeking a Junior Research Associate. We are a dynamic and close-knit team that leads research on photosynthetic CO2 fixation to build a more sustainable future. The laboratory uses genetic and biophysical tools to understand the energy balance of photosynthetic algae and how to optimize it.

Under the supervision of Adrien Burlacot, and in collaboration with all laboratory members, you will play a central role in studying the effects of light fluctuations on the energetic balance of microalgae, contributing both intellectually and experimentally to it and contributing to making decisions on the steps to be taken. You will also be responsible for various tasks that ensure the smooth functioning of the lab, including lab management, be responsible for purchasing lab supplies, and managing lab stocks for consumables and algal strains, which should take about 20% of your time. You will assist with orientation and training of new staff or students on lab procedures or techniques and may be required to supervise trainees and students in the lab. 

The scientific project focuses on using specific mutant strains of microalgae already available in the Burlacot Lab to establish how dynamic restructuration of photosynthesis allows algae to acclimate to varying energy levels. 

The position is based in Dr. Adrien Burlacot’s lab and will involve collaboration with all lab members as well as researchers at the Biosphere, Science, and Engineering Division, offering excellent opportunities for joint mentoring and career development. Members of the Burlacot lab are all supported in their career development and you will be mentored on a regular basis in this aspect. The position is fully funded and comes with competitive benefits including healthcare support and retirement benefits.

Requirements:

  • Bachelor degree in microbiology, or a related field
  • Proficiency in MS Word, Excel, and PowerPoint required.
  • Programming skills: ability to develop and implement simple codes in Python or R.
  • Willingness to take responsibilities in a small team and to actively contribute to developing the lab organization and projects.
  • Willingness to take part in building a dynamic, inclusive, and interactive lab atmosphere.
  • Willingness to foster synergistic interactions with other labs from the Carnegie Institution for Science and Stanford University.
  • Full mastership of microbiology and molecular biology is a plus.

Informal inquiries about this position can be made by emailing Adrien Burlacot at aburlacot@carnegiescience.edu. Formal applications for employment must be submitted by clicking on the bar below, including a cover letter, CV, and list of at least three references.

The review of applications will begin immediately, and the position will remain open until it is filled. 

Carnegie is an equal-opportunity employer.  In accordance with applicable laws, all qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, religion, colour, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected status.