Biologist Postdoctoral Fellow (Joint BioEnergy Institute)

~ Berkeley Lab addresses the world's most urgent scientific challenges by advancing sustainable energy, protecting human health, creating new materials, and revealing the origin and fate of the universe. Founded in 1931, Berkeley Lab's scientific expertise has been recognized with 13 Nobel prizes. The University of California manages Berkeley Lab for the U.S. Department of Energy's Office of Science. ~

Berkeley Lab is Bringing Science Solutions to the World, and YOU can be a part of it!

In the world of science, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (LBNL) is synonymous with "excellence." That's why we hire the best - whether in research, science or operations. This is a great opportunity to bring your top-notch skills to bear in support of world-class scientific research that addresses national and global challenges!

Berkeley Lab understands the postdoctoral experience in a research environment is unique. We are committed to the growth and development of early career researchers in pursuit of becoming next generation scientists and engineers. Check out our website to read about the excellent postdoctoral benefits at Berkeley Lab. 

Position Overview 

Berkeley Lab's Biological and Systems Engineering (BSE) Division has an exciting opportunity for an Biologist Postdoctoral Fellow at the at the Joint BioEnergy Institute (JBEI). The work will focus on metabolic engineering of bacteria to convert one carbon substrates (CH4, CO, CO2) to biosurfactants for applications in energy and agriculture. This project will require pathway design, strain optimization and development of gas fermentation strategies in collaboration with other members of BSE.

Notes: 

• This is a 1 year postdoctoral appointment with the possibility of renewal based upon satisfactory job performance, continuing availability of funds and ongoing operational needs.
• You must have less than 3 of years paid postdoctoral experience. 
• This position requires completion of a background check.  

Specific Responsibilities 

• Develop and optimize pathways for biosurfactant production in gas-utilizing bacteria.
• Improve substrate utilization and fatty acid production pathways using metabolic engineering.
• Build techniques for gas fermentation.
• Assist with the development of funding proposals.
• Help Principal Investigator with training and oversight of the workflow of other technical staff, Graduate Student Research Associates and Student Assistants.
• Participate in group meetings and seminars.
• Maintain an accurate and detailed computerized scientific logbook of all experiments performed. Ensure that others could duplicate results. 

Required Qualifications 

• Recent Ph.D in Chemical/Biochemical Engineering, Microbiology, Chemistry, Biochemistry or related field.
• Expertise in metabolic engineering.
• Background in designing synthetic metabolic pathways.
• Excellent computer skills.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills with ability to write grant proposals and establish independent funding.
• Experience with scientific journal writing submissions and ability to write above average reviews and articles for submission. 

Compensation: Salary will be predetermined based on postdoctoral step rates. 

To Apply 

• Please click below: "Apply Now Online!" to email your resume and a cover letter. Be sure to indicate: "Biologist Postdoctoral Fellow (Joint BioEnergy Institute) -82913". 
• The posting shall remain open until the position is filled, however for full consideration, please apply by close of business on September 26, 2016. 

~ Berkeley Lab is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, or protected veteran status. Berkeley Lab is in compliance with the Pay Transparency Nondiscrimination Provision under 41 CFR 60-1.4. ~