Postdoctoral Research Associate - Skellam Lab

University of North Texas System • Denton, TX

1d • Onsite

About The Position

The Skellam lab at the University of North Texas is seeking a highly motivated and determined Postdoctoral Research Associate with experience in the isolation and structural elucidation of natural products from complex crude extracts. This position will investigate the biosynthetic repertoire of filamentous fungi demonstrating potential as biocontrol agents by systematically developing culture conditions, extraction procedures, LCMS-based isolation methods, and molecular structure elucidation using spectroscopic techniques. This project provides opportunities to learn additional techniques such as genome mining, biosynthetic pathway elucidation, and synthetic biology approaches for accessing silent natural products. Additional responsibilities include the day-to-day management of the project, manuscript and proposal writing, presenting original research internally and externally at meetings and conferences, and mentoring students at the undergraduate and graduate level. The successful candidate will join a team consisting of postdocs, research assistants, graduate and undergraduate students, in a highly collaborative environment.

Requirements

• Completed PhD in Chemistry (i.e. coursework and defense) by the time they resume the position.
• Significant experience with small molecule isolation from complex crude extracts using LCMS including method development.
• Substantial structural elucidation experience using advanced HRMS and 1D /2D NMR techniques.
• Ability to work independently.

Nice To Haves

• Experience and interest in the biotechnological production of natural products.
• Experience with MS2 fragmentation analysis.
• Knowledge of fungal natural product biosynthesis.
• Good interpersonal skills and a team-working attitude.
• Interest in training and mentoring students.
• Experience with HSI/MSIs and/or who speak Spanish, Vietnamese, American Sign Language, Chinese (Cantonese, Mandarin and other variations), Arabic, Tagalog, Farsi, French, or/and Yoruba.

Responsibilities

• Plan and conduct experiments in consultation with Dr. Skellam.
• Prepare presentations or presentation materials of results in support of projects.
• Prepare manuscripts for publication and scientific reports based on experimental results.
• Make scientific observations, keep records of data and interpretations.
• Conduct experiments in accordance with all regulatory and safety policies.
• Work effectively with others when appropriate.
• Day-to-day management of the project.
• Manuscript and proposal writing.
• Presenting original research internally and externally at meetings and conferences.
• Mentoring students at the undergraduate and graduate level.

Benefits

• Competitive compensation commensurate with qualifications, experience, and discipline, in accordance with university guidelines and available funding.
• ORP Eligible Retirement Plan

What This Job Offers

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