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Marine Microbiology Specialist (Associate or Full Specialist), Marine Science Institute, UCSB

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Position overview

Position title: Marine Microbiology Specialist (Associate or Full Specialist)
Salary range: The posted UC system-wide salary scales set the minimum pay determined by rank and step at appointment. See Table 24B for the salary range at UCSB. A reasonable estimate for this position is $80,800-$94,000. “Off-scale salaries” and other components of pay, i.e., a salary that is higher than the published system-wide salary at the designated rank and step, are offered when necessary to meet competitive conditions.
Percent time: 100%
Anticipated start: Position start date is negotiable and anticipated to start ideally September 1, 2023
Position duration: Two (2) years from the start date with the possibility of reappointment, contingent upon performance and funding.

Position description

The Marine Science Institute (MSI) at the University of California, Santa Barbara invites applications for a Marine Microbiology Specialist (Associate or Full) capable of autonomous research in the specialized field of marine microbial cultivation, phytoplankton sampling, and analysis of chemoautotrophs. Activities will support the research mission of a large interdisciplinary project to develop biodegradable plastics for the ocean, as well as conduct research on the physiology of newly isolated marine microorganisms. The Specialist will take overall management responsibility for the wet lab operations of a 10+ person academic research group. Position will require work with hazardous chemicals and radioisotopes. Some sea-going field work may be required, which will require the employee to work on research vessels ranging in size from 12' to global class vessels. The position may involve international travel; the incumbent must be able to legally travel between the US and these international sites.

Responsibilities:

● Utilize expertise in marine microbiology to independently design and execute research projects to evaluate the physiological capabilities of marine chemoautotrophic bacteria and archaea.
● Utilize expertise in microbiology and biochemistry to independently interpret data from microbiological and chemical assays, and develop conclusions that drive the group’s future research endeavors.
● Contribute substantially to peer-reviewed publications, as well as presenting research at professional events.
● Perform extensive scholarly review of literature to inform research project design, optimize analysis, and advise the group.
● Collaborate with a large, multiorganization research group developing bioplastics for commercialization, and independently develop nutrient formulations and perform research on degradation by marine bacteria. Prepare highly professional reports in support of this group.
● Independently conduct various analytical chemistry analyses on an as-needed basis including colorimetric and fluorometric assays.
● Coordinate undergraduates undertaking weekly sampling of coastal phytoplankton and report observations in a timely manner.
● Train and advise undergraduates on specialized laboratory procedures.
● Provide feedback to undergraduates on their research projects, posters, and journal articles.
● Oversee undergraduates in lab management tasks including maintenance of a cryogenic cell stock archive and of small equipment including gas chromatograph, flow cytometer, analytical balances, pipettes, etc.
● Administer the environmental, health, and safety operations of the laboratory.

This appointment includes a competitive benefits package with medical, dental and vision insurance and a UC retirement plan. Salary is commensurate with the applicant’s qualifications and experience.

Position open until filled.

The Department is especially interested in candidates who can contribute to the diversity and excellence of the academic community through research, teaching and service as appropriate to the position.

Department: https://msi.ucsb.edu/

Qualifications

Basic qualifications (required at time of application)

Master’s degree in life science or environmental science (microbiology, marine science, microbial ecology, biochemistry, marine biology) or a related field.

Additional qualifications (required at time of start)

● At least 7 years of experience in a life sciences laboratory setting.

● Those with 10 years of experience or a PhD in life science or environmental science, (microbiology, marine science, microbial ecology, biochemistry, marine biology) or a related field will be considered for full Specialist level.

Preferred qualifications

Preferred Qualifications:
• At least 7 years of experience with student instruction, including hands-on experimentation.
• At least 3 years of professional supervisory or teaching experience related to biology.
● Specialized knowledge of marine microbial research.
● Specialized knowledge of plankton ecology.
● Skilled in design and execution of molecular biology and microbiology experimentation, and chemical analysis. Specific experience with flow cytometry and flow injection/autoanalyzer.
● Experience with light microscopy.
● Specialization in design of life science experiments with cell cultures and ability to work with sterile technique.
● Strong communication and mentorship skills.
● Impeccable organizational and time management skills.
● Experience with managing the environmental, health and safety regulations pertaining to the management of life science and/or analytical chemistry laboratories in the State of California.
● Experience with purchasing procedures relevant to the University of California or other State of California institutions.

Application Requirements

Document requirements
  • Curriculum Vitae - Your most recently updated C.V.

  • Cover Letter

Reference requirements
  • 3 required (contact information only)

The search committee will contact references of the top candidate(s) after the interviews.

Apply link: https://recruit.ap.ucsb.edu/JPF02517

Help contact: lswanson@ucsb.edu

About UC Santa Barbara

The University of California is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

As a condition of employment, you will be required to comply with the University of California Policy on Vaccination Programs, as may be amended or revised from time to time. Federal, state, or local public health directives may impose additional requirements.

Job location

Santa Barbara, CA UCSB