: The Center for Agricultural Synthetic Biology (CASB) at the University of Tennessee is seeking two full-time post-doctoral research associates to work on bioengineering plants as a chassis to achieve a variety of functions, including biosensing, pharmaceutical production, nutrient biofortification, and remediation of environmental chemicals. The goals of these projects will be to reimagine plants as engineered devices capable of achieving complex non-native functions. Direct experience in plant bioengineering or biotechnology is not required; however, competitive applicants will have experience in bioengineering at least one chassis organism. Yeast and bacterial systems are commonly used to validate components or assemble constructs prior to final installation in plants. Applicants should have strong experience in cloning, circuit design, and bioengineering with relevant publications to demonstrate their expertise.

CASB is a dynamic, multi-disciplinary research facility with > 30 researchers working on a variety of projects. CASB maintains a large portfolio of high-throughput instrumentation, including 4 automated liquid handling systems, a cell-sorter, a flow cytometer, a complete sequencing hub, microscopy facility, and LC/MS. While US Citizenship is not required for some projects, other projects do require US Citizenship due to the requirements of the sponsor. As the projects are high-risk, high-reward, and focused on achieving aggressive milestones, applicants must be capable of thinking ‘outside the box’ and meeting designated deadlines.

Positions are full-time with benefits and available immediately for one-to-two years (depending on the immediate best-fit project) with a possibility of renewal for up to four years based on performance and continued funding. Salary is based on experience and qualifications according to UT policy.

Qualifications:

Applicants must have a PhD in molecular biology, cell biology, biotechnology, bioengineering or a related-field. Candidates who are in process of obtaining the degree may be considered but degree must be conferred by Summer 2024 with official transcript provided as verification prior to date of hire. Applicants must have demonstrated experience (publications) in molecular biology, cell biology, biotechnology, bioengineering or a related field to be considered for these positions. Preference will be given to applicants with strong publication records, considerable drive and motivation, and excellent problem-solving skills.

How to apply:

Interested applicants should apply at https://hr.utk.edu/staff-positions/. Applicants should include: 1) a cover letter stating the applicant’s research experience, interests and possible starting date; 2) a CV; and 3) the names, telephone numbers and e-mail addresses of three professional references.