Job Description

Three (3) postdoctoral positions in advanced plant biotechnology and synthetic biology are available starting immediately in the laboratory of C. Neal Stewart, Jr. at the University of Tennessee in the Department of Plant Sciences affiliated with the Center for Agricultural Synthetic Biology. Positions are externally-funded. Postdocs will primarily be responsible for developing novel molecular approaches to alter gene expression and protein production in plants at various developmental stages. The position will also require advanced analytical skills as well as critical thinking. In addition, there will be additional requirements for maintaining secure data and other information. Strictly following established rules and protocols is a requirement for employment throughout the appointment. Postdocs will supervise staff and prepare monthly progress reports to the funder. Collaborations will include work with a national laboratory and a company.

The initial appointment is for two years with a mandatory 6-month probationary period, with a possibility of renewal for up to four years based on performance and continued external funding.

Salary will be based on experience and qualifications according to UT policy. In addition, UT provides an excellent fringe benefits package. Knoxville is located near the beautiful Smoky Mountains, has a low cost of living, and a moderate climate. Successful candidates will have an appointment also in the Center for Agricultural Synthetic Biology (agsynbiocenter.org).

Qualifications

Requirements:
Applicants should have a PhD prior to joining the lab.
Demonstrated experience (e.g., publications) in molecular biology, cell biology, engineering, and/or biotechnology is required.
Preference will be given to applicants with strong publication records, considerable drive and motivation, and excellent problem-solving and communication skills.
Preference will be given to people with mentoring skills and the the ability to work in a highly interdisciplinary team-based environment.
U.S citizenship is required.

Interested applicants should apply at http://hr.utk.edu/recruitment/ and attach 1) a cover letter stating their research experience, interests and possible starting date, 2) their CV, and 3) the names, telephone numbers and e-mail addresses of three references.

Campus/Institute Institute of Agriculture
The University of Tennessee does not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, color, religion, national origin, age, disability or veteran status in provision of educational programs and services or employment opportunities and benefits. This policy extends to both employment by and admission to the University. The University does not discriminate on the basis of race, sex or disability in its education programs and activities pursuant to the requirements of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)of 1990. Inquiries and charges of violation concerning Title VI, Title IX, Section 504, ADA or the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA) or any of the other above referenced policies should be directed to the Office of Equity and Diversity (OED), 1840 Melrose Avenue, Knoxville, TN 37996-3560, telephone (865) 974-2498 (V/TTY available) or 974-2440. Requests for accommodation of a disability should be directed to the ADA Coordinator at the UTK Office of Human Resources, 600 Henley Street, Knoxville, TN37996-4125.