Post Doctoral Associate (Semenova Lab)

Rutgers; Piscataway Township (NJ); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Rutgers University’s Semenova Laboratory at the Waksman Institute invites applications for a Postdoctoral Associate to study CRISPR-Cas13–mediated immunity. The fellow will investigate collateral RNA cleavage across Cas13 homologs and related defense pathways.

The position emphasizes independent experiment design, data analysis, collaboration, and contributions to publications and grant proposals.

Qualifications

• PhD in Microbiology, Genetics, Molecular Biology or a related field by start date.
• Excellent verbal and written communication; strong organizational and teamwork skills.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research on RNA-targeting type VI CRISPR-Cas systems.
• Analyze data and prepare manuscripts for publication.
• Mentor and train undergraduate students in the lab.
• Prepare proposals for postdoctoral fellowships.
• Present findings at conferences.

Skills

Verbal communication

Written communication

Team player

Self-driven

Education

PhD in Microbiology, Genetics, Molecular Biology or related field

Tools

SnapGene

GraphPad

Job description

Overview

The Semenova laboratory at the Waksman Institute of Microbiology has an open Postdoctoral Associate position to investigate CRISPR-Cas13-mediated immunity. Under the supervision of Dr. Semenova, the postdoctoral fellow will participate in grant-funded research aimed at characterizing collateral RNA cleavage by diverse Cas13 homologs, defining cellular defense pathways induced by collateral RNA cleavage, investigating spacer acquisition in RNA-targeting type VI CRISPR-Cas systems, and exploring the evolutionary diversity of Cas13 effectors and their implications for technologies.

Responsibilities

• 60% Conduct research on RNA-targeting type VI CRISPR-Cas systems.
• 15% Analyze research data and prepare manuscripts for publication.
• 15% Mentor and train undergraduate students in the lab.
• 5% Prepare proposals for postdoctoral fellowships.
• 5% Present research findings at local and international conferences.

Level of Decision Making

The postdoc will design and optimize experiments, particularly for Next Generation Sequencing workflows, including library preparation and data analysis. They will exercise independent judgment in data analysis, troubleshooting unexpected results, adjusting protocols, and ensuring high-quality data for publication.

Scope & Impact

The position involves complex experimental research on RNA-targeting CRISPR-Cas systems, requiring technical expertise and independent problem-solving. The scope includes the specific project, collaboration with other labs, mentoring undergraduates, and contributing to publications, conferences, and future grant proposals.

Qualifications

• The candidate must have a PhD in Microbiology, Genetics, Molecular Biology, or a related field by the position’s start date. Experience in microbial genetics and cultivation, molecular cloning, protein expression and characterization, DNA and RNA purification and analysis, and protein-nucleic acid interactions is required. The candidate should be self-driven, well-organized, a strong team player, and have excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in Next Generation Sequencing, including library preparation for DNA and RNA sequencing and conducting Illumina sequencing runs, as well as data analysis, is highly preferred.
• Experience in biochemistry and structural analysis of RNA-processing enzymes is desirable.

Equipment & Skills

• Familiar with common microbiology, molecular biology, and biochemistry techniques, gel electrophoresis, RNA isolation systems, PCR machines, autoclaves, computer platforms, electrophoresis equipment, and protein purification systems.
• Familiar with Microsoft Office, SnapGene, and GraphPad.

Physical Demands & Work Environment

Able to occasionally lift and carry objects weighing up to 25 pounds. Able to perform some work in cold and warm rooms. Long periods of standing and/or sitting.

Pre-Employment & Compliance

All offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of pre-employment screenings. Immunization requirements and applicable safety policies may apply. Prospective employees should speak with their hiring manager to determine which policies apply.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Rutgers University is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, sex, disability, or any other protected status. See the Non-Discrimination Statement for details.

Additional Information

Posting Details and application information are provided in the institution’s recruitment portal. For questions regarding the application process, contact the campus Human Resources or the ROCS Help Desk as appropriate.