PEPS RESEARCH SPECIALIST (MULTITROPHIC INTERACTIONS) - ID# 224545

$69,600 - $78,000/Yr

Rcuh - Honolulu, HI

Full-time - Entry Level

Honolulu, HI

About the position

The PEPS Research Specialist (Multitrophic Interactions) position at the University of Hawaii at Manoa is a full-time role focused on conducting metabolomics research to explore the impacts of plant-rhizobia interactions on plant herbivores. The successful candidate will be responsible for designing and performing experiments, collecting and analyzing data, and formulating the establishment of rhizobia in plants. This role also involves investigating the subsequent phytochemical interactions with root-feeding herbivores. The specialist will be expected to write scientific reports and present findings at meetings, collaborating with other laboratory members and various agricultural laboratory groups, including those specializing in entomology, nematology, and microbiology. Additionally, the position may require training others in metabolomics and relevant research methodologies. This position is a regular, full-time, non-civil service role with the Research Corporation of the University of Hawaii (RCUH). The continuation of employment is contingent upon program and operational needs, satisfactory work performance, availability of funds, and compliance with applicable federal and state laws. The monthly salary for this position ranges from $5,800 to $6,500, depending on qualifications and experience. The closing date for applications is August 26, 2024, or until the position is filled, with inquiries directed to Dr. Ikkei Shikano at 808-956-2000.

Responsibilities

• Conduct metabolomics research to understand the impacts of plant-rhizobia interactions on plant herbivores.
• Design and perform experiments related to plant-microbe interactions.
• Collect and analyze data from experiments.
• Formulate and determine the establishment of rhizobia in plants and their interactions with root-feeding herbivores.
• Write scientific reports and present results at meetings.
• Collaborate with other laboratory members and agricultural laboratory groups.
• Train others on metabolomics and relevant research methodologies.

Requirements

• PhD from an accredited college or university in Microbiology, Entomology, Plant Science, or a related field.
• 1-3 years of experience in entomological, plant-insect, or plant-microbe interactions.
• Knowledge of plant-herbivore and plant-microbe interactions, symbiosis, and microbial ecology.
• Ability to handle chemical and microbial inoculants and conduct microscopy, biochemical assays, and molecular diagnostics.
• Strong critical thinking and organizational skills to design experiments.
• Ability to analyze different datasets.
• Valid driver's license and personal vehicle insurance (if required for job duties).
• Ability to pass a post-offer criminal background check to work in a Federal Facility.