Researcher I

This position is in bioconversion of whey permeate to value added chemicals by means of bio-production (microbial fermentation). The successful candidate will conduct research in microbial fermentation and microbial genome editing. Using CRISPR-Cas9, the candidate will perform gene knockout and/or knock-in experiments in select bacterial species, including strict anaerobes belonging to the genus Clostridium. These genetic modifications may also involve complementary approaches such as homologous recombination. In addition, the candidate will carry out plasmid-based gene expression studies, develop and validate enzymatic assays, and perform fermentations at both bottle and, where applicable, bioreactor scales. Experiments involving Clostridium species will be conducted in an anaerobic chamber. The candidate will also provide training and technical support to undergraduate and graduate students and assist with the procurement, storage, and cataloging of laboratory reagents, materials, and chemicals and general upkeep of the laboratory (including efforts to ensure that health and safety standards maintained).

Additional information:
* A criminal background check may be required
* A 12-month evaluation/probationary period may be required
* Position is fully onsite
* Position requires the ability to lift and transport up to 30 pounds frequently

• Conducts literature reviews, prepares reports and materials, and disseminates information to appropriate entities and assists with publications

• Oversees the procurement of reagents and chemicals, and overall management of laboratory inventory.

• Ensures that health and safety regulations are adhered to.

• Identifies concerns and recommends solutions to leadership

• Provides training and oversight for graduate students

• Trains individuals and groups on equipment operations, research protocols, and techniques within a specialized laboratory or research area

• Assists in developing grant applications and proposals to secure research funding

• Collects and analyzes basic research data, conducts experiments and interviews, and documents results according to established policies and procedures

• Assists with the development of research methodologies and procedures

College of Agricultural and Life Sciences, Department of Food Science, Ujor Research Program

The minimum salary for this position is $50,000. However, actual salary will depend on 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. Additional benefits information can be found at: https://www.wisconsin.edu/ohrwd/benefits/download/fasl.pdf

* Experience with gene cloning and/or gene knock in or knockout in bacteria
* Hands-on fermentation experience

* Experience working with anaerobic bacteria (particularly those belonging to the genus Clostridium)
* Genome editing experience using CRISPR-Cas9 in Clostridium species.
* Bioreactor scale fermentation experience.

A master's degree in applied/molecular microbiology, biochemistry, molecular biology, or related field is required.

To apply for this position, please click on the "I am a current employee" button or "I am not a current employee" button under Apply Now. You will be prompted to upload the following documents.
* Cover Letter
* Resume

Please note, there is only one attachment field. You must upload all your documents into the one attachment field.

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.

University sponsorship is available for this position.

References: Finalists will be asked to provide contact information (phone and email) for three references, one of which must be a current or former supervisor. References will not be contacted without prior notice.

Hong Zhang, hong.zhang@wisc.edu, (608) 265-4473

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

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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.

The University of Wisconsin-Madison is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to, including but not limited to, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, 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 by acknowledging skills and expertise from all backgrounds and encourage all qualified individuals to apply. For more information regarding applicant and employee rights and to view federal and state required postings, visit the Human Resources Workplace Poster website.

To request a disability or pregnancy-related accommodation for any step in the hiring process (e.g., application, interview, pre-employment testing, etc.), please contact the Divisional Disability Representative (DDR) in the division you are applying to. Please make your request as soon as possible to help the university respond most effectively to you.

Employment may require a criminal background check. It may also require your references to answer questions regarding misconduct, including 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).

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