Research Specialist - Torii Lab

Howard Hughes Medical Institute • Austin, TX

3d • Onsite

About The Position

We are currently seeking a proactive Research Specialist to support the lab of Dr. Keiko Torii at the University of Texas at Austin in Austin, Texas. The Torii lab studies how functional tissue patterns are formed during plant development. We have uncovered key genes, regulatory networks, and signal transduction pathways underpinning the patterning and differentiation of stomata, cellular valves that support our life and sustenance. We are now expanding our research to uncover how environmental stress conditions impact stomatal patterning and differentiation by utilizing transcriptomic and epigenomic, and single cell approaches —work that has broad implications for agricultural sustainability in a changing climate. This role is approximately 80% research-focused and 20% management-focused, offering a unique balance between independent scientific work and lab operations leadership. The successful candidate will conduct high-resolution NGS-based analyses to investigate environmental and hormonal control of plant stem cell differentiation. You should be proficient in bulk and single-cell RNA-seq, ChIP-seq, and/or ATAC-seq analyses and standard bioinformatics pipelines. Experience with plant sample preparation and related molecular techniques is highly desirable. In addition to hands-on research, the Research Specialist will collaborate closely with the PI and lab members to train staff in experimental and computational NGS pipelines, coordinate data management with the Texas Advanced Computing Center, and contribute to a positive, inclusive, and collaborative lab culture.

Requirements

• PhD in Biological Sciences, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Cell Biology, Structural Biology, Plant Biology, or a related discipline
• Proven proficiency in bioinformatics, genomics, transcriptomics, and/or single-cell biology
• At least one first-author or major-contributor research publication in a relevant field demonstrating independence
• Experience training and mentoring lab personnel on protocols and workflows
• Strong ability to supervise, guide, and provide constructive feedback
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and organizational skills, with high attention to detail
• Strong sense of responsibility, ethics, and scientific integrity
• Effective communication, teamwork, and time management skills
• Working knowledge of laboratory safety regulations and best practices
• Remaining in a normal seated or standing position for extended periods of time; reaching and grasping by extending hand(s) or arm(s); dexterity to manipulate objects with fingers, for example using a keyboard; communication skills using the spoken word; ability to see and hear within normal parameters; ability to move about workspace.
• The position requires mobility, including the ability to move materials weighing up to several pounds (such as a laptop computer or tablet).
• Work may involve possible exposure to malodorous vapors, low dose radiation, contamination by toxic chemicals and acids and presence of carcinogenic substances or other hazardous materials.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with plant sample preparation and related molecular techniques is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Lead and support research projects using bulk and single-cell sequencing, ChIP-seq, ATAC-seq, and related genome-wide profiling approaches
• Perform bioinformatic and computational analyses of cell-state transitions, environmental adaptation, and gene regulation using advanced pipelines
• Conduct molecular and biochemical experiments as needed to support ongoing projects
• Organize and manage day-to-day operations of the lab’s plant science research program
• Present findings in lab meetings, and, as appropriate, at regional, national, or international conferences
• Contribute to the preparation of manuscripts and other publications
• Collaborate with the PI to respond to emergent operational needs (e.g., facility or equipment issues)
• Maintain computational pipelines, organize NGS data, and oversee data storage and repository submissions
• Coordinate equipment operation, maintenance, and vendor communications for repairs and training
• Maintain documentation, including SOPs, chemical and stock inventories, and personnel training records
• Ensure data management and NGS submissions meet compliance standards
• Train new lab members in bioinformatics workflows and wet-lab protocols related to transcriptomic and epigenomic studies

Benefits

• A competitive compensation package with comprehensive health and welfare benefits
• The opportunity to work at a premier research institution as part of HHMI’s national network of scientists
• Hands-on experience that builds management and leadership skills within a high-performing research group
• The chance to develop and refine administrative and operational skills, including coordination with HHMI and UT Austin research support teams
• The opportunity to present research at lab meetings and conferences
• The potential, when applicable, to contribute to authorship on scientific manuscripts

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees