Duke University, Biology
(posted 2025/10/06, listed until 2026/01/31)Position Description
Associate in Research: Gibert lab Occupational Summary -Coordinate administrative, technical and research activities in the lab. Carry out experimental work using microcosms, participate in experimental design, implementation, and data extraction. Co-supervise undergraduate students. The successful candidate must be able to work independently, but also be an excellent team member. -Oversee all aspects of laboratory compliance with Duke and other policies as well as all research-adjacent activities (time/space management, undergraduate activities and outreach events in the lab). Work Performed -Perform complex research laboratory techniques such as but not limited to: DNA/RNA/protein extraction and purification from cell lines and other tissues, maintain protist and other freshwater organism cultures, perform ecological assays such as foraging experiments, population counts over time, manipulations of media and or other environmental conditions using growth chambers, quantify cell phenotypes using flow cytometry (FlowCAM). -Provide oversight and mentoring of undergraduate researchers in areas of project design, data analysis, and troubleshooting, as well as instruction in technical skills. -Direct and oversee junior technical personnel in data analysis and technical laboratory skills. -Facilitation of graduate research through instruction and troubleshooting of techniques and assisting in project design. -Manage the safety of the lab with special attention paid to training of personnel, management of safe physical spaces, management of hazardous materials and possibly pathogenic agents, creation and maintenance of Standard Operation Procedures for techniques and individual chemicals. Serve as the primary point of contact for the Occupational and Environmental Safety Office. -Coordinate equipment assessment, purchasing, maintenance, and oversight. Respond to equipment and space audit requests. -Procure and maintain inventories of reagents, supplies, and samples as needed to support research activities of all lab personnel. Required Qualifications at this Level Education/Training: Work requires a bachelor degree in biology, or related field. Experience: At least one year of research experience in microbial ecology or related field preferred. Skills: Candidate must be fluent in ecological terminology and have a good understanding of ecological and evolutionary processes. Problem-solving and troubleshooting skills are a must. Sterile technique for maintenance of live cultures. Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Coding experience is preferred but not indispensable (e.g. R, Julia, Python, Mathematica).Duke is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to providing employment opportunity without regard to an individual's age, color, disability, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, (including pregnancy and pregnancy related conditions), sexual orientation, or military status.
Duke aspires to create a community built on collaboration, innovation, creativity, and belonging. Our collective success depends on the robust exchange of ideas—an exchange that is best when the rich diversity of our perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences flourishes. To achieve this exchange, it is essential that all members of the community feel secure and welcome, that the contributions of all individuals are respected, and that all voices are heard. All members of our community have a responsibility to uphold these values.
Application Materials Required:
- Cover letter
- Curriculum Vitae
- Two references
Further Info: