Job Information
Michigan State University Research Technologist I in East Lansing, Michigan
Job postings
Research Technologist I
Back to search results Apply now Job no: 942457
Work type: Support Staff
Pay Grade:08
Major Administrative Unit / College:Research And Innovation
Department:Great Lakes Bioenergy Researc Ctr Vprgs 10059425
Sub Area:CT- Clerical Tech.
Salary:Salary Commensurate with Experience
Location: East Lansing
Categories: Agriculture, Research/Scientific, Clerical Technical- CT, Full Time (90-100%), Union
Position Summary
The Great Lakes Bioenergy Research Center (GLBRC) at Michigan State University is seeking to hire a Research Technologist I to work on a large collaborative project studying adaptation to abiotic and biotic stresses in the bioenergy feedstock switchgrass (Panicum virgatum), in the Lowry Lab. The successful candidate will participate in research focused on understanding the mechanisms of abiotic and biotic stress tolerance in switchgrass and how those stresses impact feedstock deconstruction and bioenergy conversion. The research will be primarily located at the Kellogg Biological Station in western Michigan until December 2024. At that point, the job will be relocated to the main Michigan State University Campus in East Lansing, MI. The work will be primarily field-based in warmer months and primarily laboratory-based in colder months. The technician will be expected to organize data collection efforts and coordinate these efforts with a larger team across MSU and at other research universities and USDA field stations. The position will begin as early as May 2024, but the start date is negotiable. For more information, please contact David Lowry atdlowry@msu.edu.
Basic Function:
Conducts research experiments under the direction of a researcher to generate data for support of research projects.
Duties and Responsibilities:
Collect data from field experiments at the Kellogg Biological Station and on the main MSU campus.
Organize and execute the annual switchgrass harvest every fall in collaboration with other personnel.
Organize equipment and supplies.
Conduct basic molecular and biochemical assays.
Conduct plant physiology research.
Follow established procedures for performing tests and assays.
Generate and record data for later analysis by other researchers.
Assist in compiling test results for future composition of reports, publications, and presentation by other researchers.
Operate, maintain, and monitor research instruments and equipment.
Order supplies and equipment to build and maintain inventories.
Supervise and instruct students in the performance of basic techniques.
Monitor and control hazardous and other materials used in laboratory procedures.
Work Environment
Work will possibly involve potentially dangerous chemical hazards. Mildly disagreeable working conditions are possible involving standing and extended walking under adverse environmental conditions with unlevel footing outdoors. Repetitive measurements, sometimes involving crouching and kneeling will be required.
Unit Specific Education/Experience/Skills
Knowledge equivalent to that which normally would be acquired by completing a four-year college degree program in the biological sciences or other related field; up to six months of related and progressively more responsible or expansive work experience in basic research techniques in working with plant or related field; word processing, spreadsheet; database and/or desktop publishing software; presentation software; or an equivalent combination of education and experience. The job may require the appropriate pesticide applicator's registration/certification and/or experience working with potentially dangerous research animals.
Desired Qualifications
Desired Skills and Abilities
Previous experience working with plants.
Basic knowledge of plant biology, evolution, ecology, and genetics.
Basic knowledge of and comfort with working on university research farms.
Comfort with driving pickup trucks.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.
Required Application Materials
Please provide a cover letter explaining your interest in the position, a current resume, and a list of at least 2 professional references with their contact information.
Special Instructions
This position is a support staff position and does not qualify for a Work Visa. All applicants must be eligible to work in the United States.
Work Hours
STANDARD 8-5
Description of End Date
This is a limited term position funded for one year from date of hire with possible extension contingent upon funding renewal.
Website
https://www.glbrc.org/
Bidding eligibility ends on 4/30/2024 at 11:55 PM
Advertised: Apr 24, 2024 Eastern Daylight Time