Research Associate, Biology

Position Summary

The Department of Biology at Indiana University, Bloomington is seeking a Research Associate to join the Fuqua Lab. The lab focuses on complex bacterial behaviors, particularly biofilm formation and host interactions, using the plant pathogen Agrobacterium tumefaciens as a model. The primary goal is to advance the NIH grant "Mechanisms of pterin-dependent regulation in proteobacterial systems" (Grant number R01 GM160733).

Basic Qualifications

• Learning, conducting, and teaching other lab members key research protocols such as DNA purification, molecular cloning, gel electrophoresis, DNA sequencing, polymerase chain reaction, bacterial transformation, microbiological cultivation, SDS-PAGE, and western blotting.
• Managing pterin grant meetings and material exchanges between collaborating laboratories.
• Laboratory management and ordering.
• Participation in general laboratory task rotations.
• Written summaries of research for annual grant reporting and manuscript preparation, and research presentations.

Required Skills

• Effective time management
• Accurate and organized record keeping
• Ability to work in a team
• Receptivity to training and new techniques
• Proficiency in written and oral communication
• Problem-solving and proactive approach to preventing problems
• Dependability and punctuality
• Flexibility for research tasks and prioritization of experiments

Preferred Skills

• Molecular biology experience
• DNA sequence analysis
• Aseptic technique and microbiology
• Familiarity with data analysis and statistics

Department Contact for Questions

To apply: Please submit (1) a cover letter describing your interests and background, why you are interested in the position, and the date you are able to start, (2) a CV or resume, (3) names and contact information for two references. This can be submitted to the following link: https://indiana.peopleadmin.com/postings/33480. For questions about the position, contact Clay Fuqua (cfuqua@iu.edu).

Working Conditions

Lab research with periods of intense focus and technical clarity. Organization, planning, and record keeping for experiments are crucial, requiring careful and deliberate effort. Effective communication between lab members is critical.