Research Support Associate 1

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RESEARCH SUPPORT ASSOCIATE, Civil and Environmental Engineering (CEE), to join the Des Marais Lab and investigate the mechanisms of plant-environment interactions using molecular and quantitative genetics. Current areas of interest include life history evolution, interactions between carbon assimilation and growth during drought stress, and genotype by environment interaction. Will assist with plant growth experiments; basic molecular biology lab work, including DNA and RNA extractions; metabolic assays. Will also be responsible for general lab tasks such as upkeep, lab organization, preparing buffers, and ordering; and for performing other duties as requested. There will be opportunities to learn photosynthetic analysis using a Li-COR gas exchange system, plant transgenics, cloning, and genomic analysis.

The Des Marais Lab is located in the Parsons Laboratory for Environmental Science and Engineering. The Parsons Lab houses research groups in life sciences, environmental chemistry, hydrology, and fluid mechanics. The group maintains close collaborations with researchers in MIT’s Biology Department, Harvard’s Organismic and Evolutionary Biology Department, the Harvard Forest, and the Arnold Arboretum in nearby Jamaica Plain, MA.

Job Requirements

REQUIRED: high school diploma or its equivalent; excellent organizational, analytical, and oral and written communication skills; self-motivation; and the ability to multitask and work with others. PREFERRED: B.S. in biology or related science field; bench research experience; experience with plant growth, molecular biological techniques, and basic chemistry. Job #22857-3

Some night and weekend work may be required.

This is a one-year appointment, renewable based on performance and the research needs of the lab.