Microbiologist

University of Connecticut Biotechnology/Bioservices Center

Position Summary

The University of Connecticut seeks a Microbiologist primarily to serve the University of Connecticut community interested in microbiome analysis and small genome sequencing in the Microbial Analysis, Resources and Services Facility (MARS) of the Biotechnology/Bioservices Center. The Facility consists of an Illumina MiSeq, an EpMotion5075, QIAgility, QIAxcel, BioMicroLab XL200, a workstation for data analysis and other accessory equipment. The successful candidate will provide consultation to faculty and graduate students on microbiome analysis and genome sequencing, process and analyze samples, teach training courses and have an excellent command of verbal and written communication skills (and use them effectively). Extensive experience is required in the study of microbiomes and use of QIIME or an equivalent bioinformatics package for community analysis. Long-range efforts will be to continue development of microbial analyses to serve a diverse research community.

Minimum Qualifications: Qualified applicants must have either a M.S. or Ph.D. in microbiology or a related area, and experience or the equivalent skills to process microbiome samples and characterize the microbiome using QIIME or an equivalent bioinformatics package. Individuals with a Master’s degree and some experience will be appointed at the Academic Assistant II level. Individuals with a Master’s degree and extensive experience or a Ph.D. will be appointed at the Academic Assistant III level.

Preferred Qualifications: Highly desirable are two or more years post M.S. work experience, experience in sequencing, assembling and annotating bacterial genomes; and a strong background in microbial ecology or microbiome science. Also desirable is an ability to consult with faculty and graduate students, possess excellent verbal and written communication skills, and experience in automated liquid handling systems.

Appointment Terms

The appointment will be as an Academic Assistant II or III and is a non-tenure track annual 11-month appointment. Salary will be commensurate with qualifications. After an initial year, candidates with a Ph.D. and a strong publication record may be considered for an Assistant Research Professor position in one of several academic departments. This would provide opportunities for collaborative research activities supported by external grant funding.

To Apply

Interested applicants should apply using Academic Jobs Online, https://academicjobsonline.org/ajo/job/4049. Please submit the following: a cover letter, curriculum vitae, and a list of three professional references. Additionally, please follow the instructions in Academic Jobs On line to direct three reference writers to submit letters of reference on your behalf. Screening of candidates will begin immediately.

Employment of the successful candidate will be contingent upon the successful completion of a pre-employment criminal background check. For questions regarding this position, prospective applicants should email david.whall@uconn.edu, University of Connecticut, Biotechnology/Bioservices, Unit 3149, 91 N. Eagleville Road, Storrs, CT 06269-3149. All applications must be submitted by no later than June 20, 2014

This job posting is scheduled to be removed at 11:59 PM eastern on June 20, 2014.

The University of Connecticut encourages applications from under-represented groups, including minorities, women, and people with disabilities. The University of Connecticut is an EEO/AA employer.