TWO POSTDOCTORAL POSITIONS

DEPARTMENT OF BIOCHEMISTRY

Algal Biochemistry and Biotechnology

The laboratories of Drs. Concetta C. DiRusso and Paul N. Black in the Department of Biochemistry have two (NSF-supported and private sector-supported) postdoctoral positions available immediately to [1] analyze biochemical and metabolic effects of small compound activators of lipid accumulation in algae and [2] contribute to the development of next generation bioreactors for algal growth in wastewater remediation.  The Department of Biochemistry is housed in the George W. Beadle Center, which includes state-of-the-art core facilities in proteomics and metabolomics, genomics, crystallography, bioimaging, flow cytometry, bioinformatics, biophysical spectroscopy, and trace element analysis.  At present there are 26 PhD students and 18 postdoctoral fellows in the department, which together with 23 full-time faculty members creates a highly collaborative environment for training in the molecular life sciences.

Lipid Metabolism and Small Molecule Analysis – This position will continue studies that have identified small molecules that activate lipid synthesis and lipid body production.  Expertise in biochemistry of photosynthetic organisms and chemistry of small molecules is required. Expertise in mass spectrometry of lipids and small molecules also required. A PhD (or equivalent) in biochemistry or related field is required as well as publications in peer-reviewed journals demonstrating expertise in biochemistry and microbiology.  

Bioreactor Design and Implementation – This position will complement ongoing studies using wastewater streams to support algal growth coincident with oil synthesis.  Expertise in analyzing algal growth and metabolism at the interface of biochemistry and bioengineering using bioreactors for growth is required.  A working knowledge of lipid metabolism is preferred. A PhD (or equivalent) in biochemistry or related field is required as well as publications in peer-reviewed journals demonstrating expertise in biochemistry and microbiology.   

Lincoln Nebraska boasts an outstanding quality of life that includes fine culinary and artistic treasures, a live music scene and numerous parks, golf courses and bike trails.  In 2012, Lincoln ranked #1 in the US for quality of life by the Gallup-Healthways Well-Being Index. To learn more about the University of Nebraska and the Biochemistry Department, visit http://biochem.unl.edu.  For information of postdoctoral studies at UNL see http://postdoc.unl.edu/.

Applicants should submit a Curriculum Vitae, a succinct statement of doctoral research and arrange for two confidential letters of reference to be sent directly to Dr. Concetta DiRusso at cdirusso2@unl.edu.  Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the positions are filled or the search is closed. The University of Nebraska has a National Science Foundation ADVANCE gender equity program, and is committed to a pluralistic campus community through affirmative action, equal opportunity, work-life balance, and dual careers.  See http://www.unl.edu/equity/notice-nondiscrimination.