Career Center
Pullman, Washington
Posted: 01-Jun-23
Location: Pullman, Washington
Type: Full Time
Area of Focus:
Required Education:
A postdoc position to study phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase (PEPC) kinetic properties is available in the laboratory of Professor Asaph Cousins in the School of Biological Sciences at Washington State University. The overall objective of this research is to determine how key amino acid residues influence the kinetic and allosteric regulation of PEPC. This research will leverage the natural variation of PEPC isoforms and numerous independent origins of C4 photosynthesis to enhance the catalytic efficiency of PEPC. The successful candidate will develop skills in membrane inlet mass spectrometry, molecular biology and biochemistry, as well as using a heterologous E. coli protein expression and purification system. PEPC variants will also be tested in planta using state-of-the-art transformation and editing techniques with the model C4 plant Setaria viridis. This position is funded by the U.S. Department of Energy and is initially available for one year with the possibility of additional years of support. Salary is competitive and commensurate with education and experience. Supportive career development and mentoring for diverse opportunities.
Preferred starting date is August of 2023. The position is initially available for one year with the possibility of four additional years of support. Evaluation of applications will begin July 1st but the position will remain open until filled.
Salary is competitive and commensurate with education and experience. Supportive career development and mentoring for diverse opportunities. The position comes with benefits including medical, dental, and vision. Details can be found here: https://hrs.wsu.edu/employees/benefits/benefit-details/
To apply, please send a letter of application, curriculum vitae, and names with contact information (phone and email) of three references to Dr. Asaph Cousins at acousins@wsu.edu Individuals underrepresented in STEM are strongly encouraged to apply. More information on our research can be found at https://sbs.wsu.edu/asaphcousins
Required Qualifications:
- PhD in Plant Physiology, Biochemistry, or similar area.
- Effective written and oral communication skills.
- Ability to work independently and in a group environment.
- Able to effectively mentor undergraduates and graduate students.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience with measurements of enzyme kinetics and isotope analysis.
- Experience with enzymology including extracting enzymes, enzyme activity assays, and measuring enzyme kinetic parameters.
- Experience with or willingness to learn leaf level models of C4 photosynthesis.
- Experience with or willingness to learn general molecular biology tools (e.g., DNA extractions, PCR, and genotyping).
