New

Assistant Researcher

University of Kansas
United States, Kansas, Lawrence
1450 Jayhawk Boulevard (Show on map)
Jun 24, 2025
Position Overview A full-time Assistant Researcher position is available at the University of Kansas to work on a federally funded project to explore the genomics of male fitness variation in the model fruit fly system, Drosophila melanogaster. The project is led by Drs. John Kelly, Stuart Macdonald, and Rob Unckless. The successful candidate will assist with both fly work (maintaining stocks, crossing flies, executing fitness assays) and with molecular biology and genomics work (isolating DNA, generating next-generation sequencing libraries), and will have the opportunity to learn a range of new skills. We are looking for an enthusiastic and organized individual who wants to learn new experimental skills in the broad areas of evolution and genetics.. Previous research assistants in our groups have been authors of research publications, and have leveraged their experiences with us to further their careers in academia and/or industry. This position is funded through a multi-year NSF (National Science Foundation) research grant and has an anticipated start date of July 1, 2025, although this is flexible/negotiable. Job Description 50% - Maintain and use Drosophila strains/populations/individuals for genetic analysis. Examples of the work include: stock maintenance preparing media carrying out crosses assaying strains/populations for variation. 30% - Carry out a range of molecular biology procedures. Examples of the work include: DNA isolation next-generation sequencing library construction (e.g., for whole-genome sequencing). 10% - Perform general lab tasks, including inventory and ordering of supplies. 10% - Keep accurate and detailed records. Maintain an up-to-date and accurate physical/digital lab notebook, keep detailed records of all experimental results, and regularly present data/results to the rest of the team. Required Qualifications A bachelor's degree in biology or a related field by start date. Previous experience with molecular biology techniques (e.g., PCR), as evidenced by the application materials. Strong written communication skills, as evidenced by the application materials. Preferred Qualifications Previous experience with Drosophila husbandry, as evidenced by application materials. Previous laboratory experience that included troubleshooting and optimizing protocols, as evidenced by application materials. Previous experience that required making next generation sequencing libraries, as evidenced by application materials Prior experience that required managing large scientific projects, including managing undergraduate assistants, as evidenced by application materials. Additional Candidate Instructions In addition to the online application, the following documents are required to be considered for this position: A CV/resume Cover letter outlining relevant experience and interest in the position Contact information for three referees (phone/email) Only complete applications will be considered. Review of applications will begin on Monday, June 9th, 2025 and will continue until the position is filled. Contact Information to Applicants Stuart Macdonald sjmac@ku.edu Advertised Salary Range 46,000 Application Review Begins Monday June 9, 2025 Anticipated Start Date Tuesday July 1, 2025