Postdoctoral Research Associate - Microbial Synthetic Biologist

Oak Ridge National Laboratory • Oak Ridge, TN

2d • Onsite

About The Position

Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate to join the Microbial Engineering Group within the Biosciences Division. This role focuses on developing next-generation genetic tools for non-model microorganisms to enable precise genome engineering for the bioeconomy. The goal is to accelerate the understanding of genotype-phenotype relationships, microbial physiology, and the engineering of microbes for energy and environmental applications. The position involves multidisciplinary research, collaborating with experts across biology, engineering, computing, and environmental sciences. The associate will develop genetic engineering platforms for diverse microbes, including those capable of converting waste plastics and lignocellulosic biomass into fuels and chemicals. Research activities include creating transformation methods, constructing gene-expression parts, and developing CRISPR-Cas and recombineering systems for targeted genome manipulation. The role also involves gene deletions, overexpression studies, validating engineered genotypes, characterizing physiological impacts, and linking genotypes to phenotypes using advanced techniques like next-generation sequencing and systems biology. Close collaboration with technical support staff and scientific experts is expected, along with designing and executing experiments, analyzing data, and communicating results through publications and presentations.

Requirements

• A PhD in Microbiology, Bioengineering, Chemical Engineering, Molecular Biology, Genetics, or a related field completed within the last 5 years or expected to be completed within the next 6 months at the time of application.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with microbiology, synthetic biology, and molecular genetics, preferably including non-model bacteria
• Experience developing or using CRISPR editing and/or CRISPR inhibition in diverse microorganisms
• Experience growing and genetically modifying anaerobic bacteria is desirable
• Experience analyzing large datasets, including sequencing and ‘omics data
• Proven publication record
• Excellent written and oral communication skills
• Motivated self-starter with the ability to work independently and to participate creatively in collaborative teams across the laboratory
• Ability to function well in a fast-paced research environment, set priorities to accomplish multiple tasks within deadlines, and adapt to ever changing needs

Responsibilities

• Perform molecular genetics, synthetic biology, and related experiments
• Work with a diverse team of scientists
• Interface directly with internal and external partners in various disciplines
• Present research results at national scientific meetings
• Publish scientific results in peer-reviewed journals in a timely manner
• Participate in project planning and execution
• Maintain detailed and accurate records
• Acquire and analyze data in keeping with project scheduling
• Take a position of leadership for day-to-day laboratory operations while addressing all of ORNL’s environmental health and safety requirements
• Self-assess experimental research skill set and identify weakness and secure learning resources to address these issues
• Ensure compliance with environmental, safety, health and quality program requirements
• Maintain strong dedication to the implementation and perpetuation of values and ethics

Benefits

• medical and retirement plans
• flexible work hours
• on-site fitness
• banking
• cafeteria facilities
• Prescription Drug Plan
• Dental Plan
• Vision Plan
• 401(k) Retirement Plan
• Contributory Pension Plan
• Life Insurance
• Disability Benefits
• Generous Vacation and Holidays
• Parental Leave
• Legal Insurance with Identity Theft Protection
• Employee Assistance Plan
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Health Savings Accounts
• Wellness Programs
• Educational Assistance
• Relocation Assistance
• Employee Discounts

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree