Research specialist

Job Summary:

The Kacar Lab ( ancientbiology.org ) at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Department of Bacteriology is looking to hire a Research Specialist to join our origins of life and early life evolution research group. Our lab works at the interface of molecular evolution, synthetic biology, genome engineering, biochemistry, molecular biology and origins of life and is host to one of the NASA centers dedicated to understanding early Earth biology and evolution. The successful candidate will assist in on-going laboratory experiments to engineer microbial genomes, develop high-throughput screening methods, recombinantly express, purify and characterize proteins. Work will include modifying plasmid DNAs, working with Escherichia coli, Azotobacteria as well as Cyanobacteria. Protein characterizations will include gel electrophoresis, plate-based assays, HPLC and FPLC characterizations. This position entails both bench work and lab administration and management. Position involves laboratory management such as placing orders, updating inventory and training students. The College of Agricultural and Life Sciences (CALS) is committed to maintaining and growing a culture that embraces diversity, inclusion, and equity, believing that these values are foundational elements of our excellence and fundamental components of a positive and enriching learning and working environment for all students, faculty, and staff. At CALS, we acknowledge that bias, prejudice, racism, and hate have historically occurred in many forms that cause significant and lasting harm to members of our community. We commit to taking actions each day toward a college that is inclusive and welcoming to all. We encourage applications from candidates who can demonstrate a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. 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.

• 20% Conducts research experiments according to established research protocols with moderate impact to the project(s). Collects data and monitors test results
• 20% Operates, cleans, and maintains organization of research equipment and research area. Tracks inventory levels and places replenishment orders
• 20% Reviews, analyzes, and interprets data and/or documents results for presentations and/or reporting to internal and external audiences
• 20% Participates in the development, interpretation, and implementation of research methodology and materials
• 10% Provides operational guidance on day-to-day activities of unit or program staff and/or student workers
• 10% Performs literature reviews and writes reports

Institutional Statement on Diversity:

Diversity is a source of strength, creativity, and innovation for UW-Madison. We value the contributions of each person and respect the profound ways their identity, culture, background, experience, status, abilities, and opinion enrich the university community. We commit ourselves to the pursuit of excellence in teaching, research, outreach, and diversity as inextricably linked goals. The University of Wisconsin-Madison fulfills its public mission by creating a welcoming and inclusive community for people from every background - people who as students, faculty, and staff serve Wisconsin and the world. For more information on diversity and inclusion on campus, please visit: Diversity and Inclusion Education:

Required
Bachelor's Degree
Molecular Biology, Microbiology or related discipline. Preferred
Master's Degree
Molecular Biology, Microbiology or related discipline. Qualifications:

Minimum one year of demonstrated laboratory research experience in molecular biology, or related field, required. Demonstrable hands-on experience in any of the following research techniques is particularly favorable: bacterial growth measurements, protein expression and purification, protein biochemistry and/or biophysics. Familiarity with computational tools is a plus. 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 $39,400 ANNUAL (12 months)
Depending on Qualifications
Starting salary will be based on relevant experience and qualifications. Employees in this position can expect to receive benefits such as generous vacation, holidays, and paid time off; competitive insurances and savings accounts; retirement benefits. Benefits information can be found at:

Additional Information:

The selected candidate will have:
* Strong communication skills, both oral and written.
* Commitment to contributing a large, dynamic research group with an equitable, inclusive and diverse working environment.
* Demonstrated high standards of professionalism, efficiency, discretion, initiative and independent judgment.
* Experience working with diverse teams and working independently, as needed.
* Excellent organization and project management skills are a must.
* Ability to prioritize a wide range of issues and set deadlines.
* Proficiency with computer software such as Microsoft Word and Excel. Must be able to use internet browsers, e-mail, electronic calendaring, and be familiar with e-commerce vendors and online ordering systems. A criminal background check is required. A 12-month evaluation period will be required. The successful candidate will be responsible for ensuring eligibility for employment in the United States on or before the effective date of the appointment. University sponsorship is not available for this position. How to Apply:

Please click on the "Apply Now" button to begin the application process. The applicant tracking system will require that you either log in or create an account. Be prepared to upload a cover letter, resume and 3 professional references in one PDF document. References will not be contacted without prior notice.
* Resume (required) - Detail your educational and professional background
* Cover letter (required) - Refer to your related work experience
* References (required) - List contact information for three (3) references, including your current/most recent supervisor. It's important that your cover letter and resume reflect your experience for this position related to the Qualifications section. Your application materials will be used during our evaluation to determine your qualifications as they relate to the job. The most qualified applicants will be invited to participate in the next step of the selection process. Contact:

Betul Kacar


Relay Access (WTRS): 7-1-1. See RELAY_SERVICE for further information.

Official Title:

Research Specialist(RE047)

Department(s):

A07-COL OF AG & LIFE SCIENCES/BACTERIOLOGY

Employment Class:

Academic Staff-Renewable

Job Number:

295013-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. If you need to request an accommodation because of a disability, you can find information about how to make a request at the following website: Employment will require a criminal background check. It will also require you and your references to answer questions regarding sexual violence and sexual harassment. The University of Wisconsin System will not reveal the identities of applicants who request confidentiality in writing, except that the identity of the successful candidate will be released. See Wis. Stat. sec. 19.36(7). The Annual Security and Fire Safety Report contains current campus safety and disciplinary policies, crime statistics for the previous 3 calendar years, and on-campus student housing fire safety policies and fire statistics for the previous 3 calendar years. UW-Madison will provide a paper copy upon request; please contact the University of Wisconsin Police Department .