Metabolomics Research Associate

Berkeley Lab’s (LBNL) Environmental Genomics and Systems Biology (EGSB) Division has an opening for a Research Associate to join the Northen Metabolomics Lab!

The Northen Metabolomics Team studies soil, plant, and microbial ecosystems and utilizes mass spectrometry technologies to measure metabolite changes. Their lab conducts basic science research supporting solutions for addressing global issues related to carbon cycling, bioenergy, and plant health. Their experiments involve use of fabricated ecosystems, microbial cross feeding assays, and plant-microbe interaction studies. 

In this exciting role, you will perform routine mass spectrometry-based metabolomics workflows ranging from extracting a wide range of samples (fungi, algae, media, soil and other environmental or biological samples), while operating and troubleshooting laboratory equipment (TOC, HPLC-UV/VIS, LCMS, GCMS, MALDI, plate readers, lyophilizers, centrifuges, sonicators, automation equipment) following standard operating procedures. Under the direct supervision of the Lab Manager, this position will also be responsible for supporting plant and microbial experiments, the generation and collection of samples for metabolomics analysis, and supporting the implementation of new techniques/protocols. 

This position has an anticipated start date of October 1, 2024.

What You Will Do:

• Support routine microbial, plant, fungal culturing experiments in the lab using sterile technique and equipment such as plate readers, microscopes, incubators, etc.
• Operate, troubleshoot, and maintain a variety of laboratory equipment following standard operating procedures (i.e., mass spectrometers, liquid chromatography systems, robotic automation systems and sample processing / extraction equipment).
• Perform routine sample extractions on soils, plant materials, microbial cultures, etc.
• Perform and log results of quality control assessment on samples and controls using custom scripts (run, modify, and interpret/read) and standard metabolomics software (i.e., XCalibur, MZmine, GNPS, etc.).
• Routinely perform basic lab support duties, including equipment maintenance, purchase of consumables, lab and freezer organization, requisitioning of waste, etc.
• Participate in group and team meetings.
• Maintain detailed and well organized lab records.

What is Required:

• A minimum of 1 year of experience performing relevant Chemistry and Biology research in a lab environment.
• General biochemistry skills including the ability to troubleshoot issues, understand standard operating procedures, and describe/understand the mechanisms used.
• Ability to operate, maintain, and run laboratory instrumentation (ex. plate reader, liquid chromatograph, gas chromatography or mass spectrometer).
• Proficiency in the use of computer and related software programs including MS Office Suite, Google Applications, Adobe Acrobat, and Zoom video conferencing.
• Strong oral and written communication skills including the ability to accurately organize, document, and maintain laboratory research data, results, and records. 
• Effective interpersonal skills including the ability to work collaboratively within an interdisciplinary team environment.

Desired Qualifications:

• A Bachelor’s Degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biology, Microbiology, Plant Biology, Analytical Chemistry, Engineering, or a related field.
• Experience operating and maintaining analytical equipment such as mass spectrometry and liquid chromatography systems.
• Experience performing metabolite sample extractions and working with solvents.
• Experience using instrumentation software to initiate data collection and perform quality control checks (e.g., Chromeleon, XCalibur, GNPS, MZmine, XCMS).
• Experience culturing/growing bacteria, plants, or fungi using sterile techniques.
• Experience running pre-made workflows and modifying them in scientific programming languages (e.g., Python, MATLAB, R).

Notes:

• For full consideration, please apply with a resume by September 18, 2024.
• This is a full time, non-exempt (hourly paid) from overtime, 13 month, Term (benefits eligible) appointment with the possibility of renewal up to a maximum of 5 years total or conversion to Career appointment based upon satisfactory job performance, continuing availability of funds, and ongoing operational needs. 
• This position is represented by a union for collective bargaining purposes.
• This position is expected to pay $24.46 - $31.18 per hour which fits within the full salary range of $24.46 - $37.88 per hour for job code 381.1. Salary for this position will be commensurate with the final candidate’s qualification and experience, including skills, knowledge, relevant education, certifications, plus also aligned with the internal peer group.
• This position may be subject to a background check. Any convictions will be evaluated to determine if they directly relate to the responsibilities and requirements of the position. Having a conviction history will not automatically disqualify an applicant from being considered for employment.
• This position will be performed onsite at Lawrence Berkeley National Lab, 1 Cyclotron Road, Berkeley, CA 94720. This position is located in Building 91, the Integrative Genomics Building (IGB) (Virtual Tour).
• This position is not eligible for relocation assistance.
• This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship.

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Berkeley Lab (LBNL) 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 16 Nobel prizes. The University of California manages Berkeley Lab for the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Science.

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