Two postdoctoral scientist positions are available in the lab of Professor William Gray in the Department of Plant & Microbial Biology at the University of Minnesota. Individuals will conduct research into the mechanisms by which the plant hormone auxin regulates cell expansion during plant growth and development, primarily employing the model plant Arabidopsis thaliana. This research is supported by a new 5-year grant from the National Institutes of Health and will focus on understanding the roles, mechanisms, and signaling networks by which SAUR-PP2C.D control modules regulate auxin-mediated cell expansion. Approaches include gain- and loss-of-function genetics coupled with phenotypic analysis, phosphoproteomics, enzymatic analysis of kinase and phosphatase activities, and identification of protein interaction networks using yeast 2-hybrid and affinity purification-mass spectrometry approaches. This project provides considerable flexibility as to the precise directions and approaches of the research. Consequently, successful candidates will have opportunities to provide significant input into the project and to develop independent aspects of the work that can provide foundations for their future research endeavors. 75% Design and Conduct Experiments
Independently conduct molecular and genetic experiments, including generation and characterization of Arabidopsis mutants, creation of transgenic plants, protein purification, enzyme and protein interaction assays, standard molecular biological manipulations, and analysis of gene/protein expression/regulation. 10% Prepare Results for Presentation and Publication
The results of the project will be published in major journals in the field and presented at national/international meetings as well as local forums. This position will require data compilation and figure preparation that will be incorporated into manuscripts to be written and submitted for publication as well as posters and oral presentations. 5% Archive Data and Materials
Archive all experiments performed in the course of the study, as well as the generated reagents in accordance to lab convention. All strains, DNA constructs and reagents are to be maintained, with a full record of the work. 5% Laboratory Citizenship
Prepare communal reagents and assist with laboratory housekeeping duties to ensure efficient functioning of the lab. Assist with training and supervision of undergraduate researchers and new lab members. 5% Engage with the local science community
Prepare communal reagents and assist with laboratory housekeeping duties to ensure efficient functioning of the lab. Assist with training and supervision of undergraduate researchers and new lab members. Essential Qualifications:
PhD in genetics, cell/molecular biology, biochemistry or related field is required. Candidates should have extensive experience with common molecular techniques such as cloning, PCR, and recombinant protein expression/purification, and possess a demonstrated ability to independently design and carry out research projects resulting in publications. Preferred Qualifications:
Experience with protein purification, mass spectrometry, confocal microscopy, and a broad background in biochemistry and genetics are preferred but not essential. Prior experience in working with plants is not required. About University of Minnesota Twin Cities
The University of Minnesota, founded in the belief that all people are enriched by understanding, is dedicated to the advancement of learning and the search for truth; to the sharing of this knowledge through education for a diverse community; and to the application of this knowledge to benefit the people of the state, the nation, and the world.
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