RESEARCH CONSULTANT II

Division of Plant Science & Technology

The Division of Plant Science & Technology is seeking a Research Consultant II. The Research Consultant will use cell, genetic, and molecular biology to help conceive, plan, execute, and report research related to creating genetic resources towards the development of gene drives to control the insect spotted lanternfly insect.

Key Responsibilities:

• Analyze genetic sequencing, ecology, and molecular biology data related to genetic editing of spotted lanternflies. This includes using artificial intelligence, computational biology, and advanced statistical methods.
• Publishing manuscripts in scientific journals and submit reports to USDA based on research efforts.
• Molecular and genomic experimentation. This includes but is not limited to standard molecular procedures such as PCR, qPCR, rt-PCR, electrophoresis, RNA interference assays.
• Gene editing in whole insects and cell lines. This includes but is not limited to CRISPR-cas9, piggyBac, TALENs, ligation, transformation, lipofection, and electroporation.
• Establishing and maintaining somatic and germline cell lines originating from spotted lanternfly.
• Presenting at USDA meetings and professional conferences.
• Maintaining spotted lanternfly colonies and the Tree of Heaven colony they reside on. This will occur inside of USDA's APHIS certified quarantine room with all associated permitting and training.
• Performs other job-related duties as assigned.

This position will work 40 hours a week, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

A Bachelor's degree or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience, and at least 4 years of experience from which comparable knowledge and skills can be acquired is necessary.

Preferred candidate will have a PhD in Biology or related field.

The anticipated hiring range for this position has been established as $59,737.60 - $75,000.00 annually.

Salary is determined by a variety of factors, including but not limited to, the individual's particular combination of education, skills, and experience, as well as organizational requirements.
Your total compensation goes beyond the number on your paycheck. The University of Missouri provides generous leave, health plans, and retirement contributions that add to your bottom line.

Grade: GGS-11
University Title: RESEARCH CONSULTANT II

To review the University of Missouri's Staff Compensation Structure you can view the Job Code detail page. Internal applicants can determine their university title by accessing the Talent Profile tile in myHR.

Interested applicants should submit a CV and cover letter.

This position is eligible for University benefits. As part of your total compensation, the University offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental and vision plans, retirement, paid time off, short- and long-term disability, paid parental leave, paid caregiver leave, and educational fee discounts for all four UM System campuses. For additional information on University benefits, please visit the Faculty & Staff Benefits website at https://www.umsystem.edu/totalrewards/benefits.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of Missouri is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

To request ADA accommodations, please call the Director of Accessibility and ADA at 573-884-7278.