Research Scientist - Institute for Sustainability, Energy and Environment
Institute for Sustainability, Energy, and Environment

Job Summary
Conduct research and contribute to publications of research findings.Duties & Responsibilities

• Lead efforts in identifying rate limiting processes in the C4 photosynthetic pathway of sorghum and designing and building gene constructs optimized for expression in sorghum
• Explore the role of rubisco activase in increasing the thermotolerance of C4 photosynthesis in C4 grasses, and collaborate with those developing models of C4 photosynthesis to test predictions of how rubisco activase may interact with other photosynthetic enzymes to alleviate limitations
• Communicate research progress and results to project team members and external stakeholders including publishing Publish peer reviewed publications to disseminate scientific findings as well presenting the results at scientific conferences and project meetings.
• Maintain detailed and organized records of project data and other materials.
• Recruit, select, and supervise academic hourly workers, and undergraduate students assisting with research activities including providing orientation and training, determining task assignments, managing performance, including evaluation and providing coaching and mentoring of independent study.

Minimum Qualifications

Ph.D. in plant molecular biology, biochemistry, physiology or a closely aligned field. Experience in:1. Photosynthesis research, plant physiology, and plant biochemistry2. Biochemical and physiological phenotyping using gas exchange fluorescence and spectroscopy and root phenotyping techniques.3. Photosynthetic gas exchange
Preferred Qualifications

Experience in:
1. Mathematical modeling of photosynthesis Designing and conducting replicated greenhouse and field experiments.
2. Designing and conducting replicated greenhouse and field experiments.
3. Demonstrated success in the publication of high-impact work in recognized peer-reviewed journals.
4. Substantial post-doctoral experience in photosynthetic crop research.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Required: Extensive knowledge of plant photosynthesis and biochemistry and root phenotyping, strong oral and written communication skills, ability to work in a complex and challenging environment both autonomously and collaboratively as part of a team, critical thinker and problem solver with a demonstrated ability to efficiently execute project tasks.
• Preferred: Statistical analysis of large datasets.

Appointment Information

This is a 100% full-time Academic Professional position, appointed on a 12-month basis. The expected start date is as soon as possible after closing date. Salary range is $56,000 to $66,000. Salary is competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience, while also considering internal equity. The University of Illinois offers a wide variety of benefits https://www.hr.uillinois.edu/benefits, including paid leave https://www.hr.uillinois.edu/leave and holidays.
Application Procedures & Deadline Information

Applications must be received by 6:00 pm (Central Time) on January 6, 2025. Apply for this position using the Apply Now button at the top or bottom of this posting. Applications not submitted through https://jobs.illinois.edu will not be considered. Qualified candidates must upload: 1) a cover letter which details qualifications noted above; 2) resume or CV; and 3) the names and contact information for three professional references. All requested information must be submitted for your application to be considered. Incomplete applications will not be reviewed. For further information, please contact Erica Hanson, OVCRI Human Resources, elhanson@illinois.edu. For questions regarding the application process, please contact 217-333-2137.

The University of Illinois System is an equal opportunity employer, including but not limited to disability and/or veteran status, and complies with all applicable state and federal employment mandates. Please visit Required Employment Notices and Posters to view our non-discrimination statement and find additional information about required background checks, sexual harassment/misconduct disclosures, and employment eligibility review through E-Verify.

Applicants with disabilities are encouraged to apply and may request a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (2008) to complete the application and/or interview process. Accommodations may also be requested on the basis of pregnancy, childbirth, and related conditions, or religion. Requests may be submitted through the reasonable accommodations portal, or by contacting the Accessibility & Accommodations Division of the Office for Access and Equity at 217-333-0885, or by emailing accessibility@illinois.edu.

Requisition ID: 1028460
Job Category: Research
Apply at: https://jobs.illinois.edu