Responsibilities

The Microbial Molecular Phenotyping Group in the Environmental Molecular Sciences Division at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory is seeking a versatile Biologist 2 to carry out research in the area of single-cell biology that moves beyond species-resolved bulk analyses by improving the sensitivity and specificity of multi-omics platforms. Using new cell separation, molecular labelling and signal amplification strategies, the efforts will focus on quantitative and dynamic measurements of specific biological outputs (i.e., mRNA, protein, and metabolites) in single cells to understand how individual phenotypes give rise to the behavior of cell populations, microbial communities, and tissues. The work will integrate single-cell RNA sequencing with activity-based proteomics and mapping of metabolic signatures to identify mechanisms of cell signaling and communication. Areas of contribution include development of novel approaches to uncover structure-function relationships in multi-species assemblages and application of these techniques to study lab-based model systems as well as natural microbial communities. The selected applicant will initially work on funded projects from government sponsors but is expected to build extramurally funded research program and, as a principle investigator, demonstrate leadership skills.

Researches the basic principles of microbial, plant, and animal life, including origin, anatomy, and function. Collects and studies biological data that show how organisms interact with their environments, focusing on structure, function, and behavior. May specialize in: Microbiology: Investigates the growth, structure, development, and other characteristics of microscopic organisms at both the molecular and cellular level, as well as their ecology and function as mixed communities. Plant/Science: Studies the breeding, physiology, production, yield, and management of crops and agricultural plants or trees. Genetics/Molecular/Biology: Studies and redesigns the genetic system of organisms. Understanding and engineering the function of an organism at the genetic level including the expression of those genes into functioning RNAs and proteins and response to intracellular and extracellular stimuli. Field/Biology/Ecology: Conducts research on land, in air, and water, studying plant, animal, and bird behavior in natural Ecosystems.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications:

BS/BA and 2 years of relevant experience -OR- MS/MA -OR- PhD

Preferred Qualifications:

Candidates with a PhD or who are obtaining their PhD within the next 3 months from an accredited college or university or candidates who have received a master’s degree and who have experience in research and development in an industrial or academic environment. PhD or Master's in chemical biology, molecular biology, systems biology, biochemistry, microbiology, or a related biological field. Knowledge of single cell sequencing and molecular based activity studies applicable to prokaryotic systems. Previous research experience in microbiome studies and molecular ecology as demonstrated by a solid publication record is highly desirable. Demonstrated ability to develop, lead, and safely execute research projects. Substantial record of independent contributions to research programs and extensive experience in technical and project leadership roles. The successful candidate will interact with other staff and participate in team-based collaborative research within PNNL as well as with external organizations. Strong written, oral and inter-personal communication skills are essential to independently carry out initial analysis of experimental data, and present summaries to project managers and staff.
Hazardous Working Conditions/Environment

None

Additional Information

Not applicable

Testing Designated Position

This is not a Testing Designated Position (TDP)

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