Postdoctoral Research Associate - Mass Spectrometry

Requisition Id 14184 

Overview:

Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) is the largest US Department of Energy science and energy laboratory, conducting basic and applied research to deliver ground-breaking solutions to compelling problems in energy and security. We are seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate who will support the Bioanalytical Mass Spectrometry Group in the Biosciences Division, Biological and Environmental Systems Science Directorate at ORNL. The Postdoctoral Associate will collaborate with a small team of scientists to collect soil samples, conduct metabolomics analyses of extracts, develop new metabolomic assays, and interpret effects on plant nitrogen use efficiency and nitrification inhibition.

 

You will conduct broad spectrum metabolomic analyses using triple quadrupole, time-of-flight, and high resolution (orbitrap) mass spectrometers. Additionally you will use innovative high efficiency liquid extraction mass spectrometry techniques (immediate droplet on demand/open port sampling interface-MS among others). Your research activities include sample collection (greenhouse and field soil collections), sample preparation (metabolite extraction, incorporation of internal standards for quantification, sample derivatization), mass spectrometry method development and troubleshooting (high efficiency and liquid chromatography optimization), data extraction and spreadsheet summarization, data visualization, interpretation, and metabolite identification. Soils are primarily of Eastern Cottonwood (Populus deltoides) genotypes as part of a genome-wide association study (GWAS) seeking to identify metabolite-SNP associations associated with biological nitrificiation inhibition.

 

Major Duties/Responsibilities:

• Design, conduct, analyze, and interpret laboratory, greenhouse, and field-based research.
• Lead and contribute to the development of scientific manuscripts.
• Perform metabolomic research using innovative mass spectrometry capabilities.
• Develop and optimize assays for metabolite identification and quantification from soil extracts.
• Present and report research results in a timely manner to the team and present at meetings and conferences.
• Work with ORNL staff and other postdoctoral research associates and students to accomplish research goals.
• Maintain strong dedication to the implementation and perpetuation of values, ethics, and safety practices in a professional research environment.
• Deliver ORNL’s mission by aligning behaviors, priorities, and interactions with our core values of Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service. Promote diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility by encouraging a respectful workplace – in how we treat one another, work together, and measure success.

 

Basic Qualifications:

• A PhD in chemistry, biochemistry, molecular biology or a related field completed within the last 5 years
• Experience with Mass Spectrometry

 

Preferred Qualifications:

• Previous experience with high performance liquid chromatography mass spectrometry assay development, data analysis, and interpretation
• Experience with chemical separations and other sample preparation methods for mass spectrometry
• An excellent record of productive and creative research proven by publications in peer-reviewed journals
• Excellent written and oral communication skills
• The ability to work independently as well as with a team
• Ability to function well in a fast-paced research environment, set priorities to accomplish multiple tasks within deadlines, and adapt to ever changing needs
• Proven lab bench experience and knowledge of techniques applicable to metabolite analysis and data processing.
• Experience with biological systems and biochemistry of plants, microbes, fungi, and/or soil