Job Details

Postdoctoral Scholar, Biochemistry & Molecular Biology

Position Number: 6583234
Location: Reno, NV
Position Type: Science - Biochemistry and Molecular Biology

Postdoctoral Scholar, Biochemistry & Molecular Biology

R0148996
University of Nevada, Reno - Main Campus

The University of Nevada, Reno (UNR) appreciates your interest in employment at our growing institution. We want your application process to go smoothly and quickly. Final applications must be submitted prior to the close of the recruitment.

If you need assistance or have questions regarding the application process, please contact our recruitment helpline at (775) 784-1495 or jobs@unr.edu. For UNR Med professional job postings, please contact the Office of Professional Recruitment at (775) 784-6778.

Job Description

The Rckert Lab in the Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology department at University of Nevada, Reno invites applicants for a postdoctoral position investigating virus-mosquito interactions at the molecular and cellular level. We seek candidates with a strong background in molecular biology and biochemistry for a project focusing on RNA-protein and protein-protein interactions. The project will include extensive molecular cloning, protein expression, co-IP, mass spectrometry, NGS, and data analysis in the context of virus infection of mosquito cells and mosquitoes. Virology experience is desired, but any candidates with strong foundations in molecular and biochemical assays will be considered.

Our lab focuses on virus-vector interactions, including mosquito immunology and molecular tool development (e.g. CRISPR/Cas9). We study innate immune signaling, antiviral RNA interference, and specific antiviral genes/proteins with unknown functions. Our lab is a small lab with strong emphasis on individual development, learning/mentoring, and pursuit of individual professional goals. The future fellow will have opportunities to expand their skill set, participate in professional development opportunities, and receive feedback and support for their individual career aspirations. We usually have a mix of undergraduate and graduate students in the lab who often pursue their own projects but will benefit from guidance by the fellow (in the lab, data analysis, scientific writing, and presentations).

The earliest start date for this position is October 1, 2025, with preference given to strong, qualified candidates who can start on or soon after this date. This position is currently limited to June 30, 2027, with the possibility of extension based on performance and funding availability.

Key Responsibilities:

Molecular cloning (mutagenesis) of gene(s) of interest
Generation of knockout cells using CRISPR/Cas9 and established protocols
Perform protein co-IPs, Western blots, and mass spectrometry (with Core facilities)
Perform virus infections of cells and later mosquitoes, extraction of viral and cellular RNA, quantitative real-time PCR, and virus titration by plaque assays.
Perform or assist with next-generation sequencing and data analysis
Analyze experimental data using appropriate graphical, statistical, and bioinformatic methods.
Prepare manuscripts for peer-reviewed journals and present findings at conferences.
Participate in lab meetings, mentor junior scientists, and contribute to a collaborative and inclusive lab culture.

Required Qualifications

Ph.D. in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Virology, or related fields
Demonstrated ability to conduct research, as evidence by publication record.
Research experience using molecular biology and biochemistry techniques
Demonstrated excellent analytical, writing, and communication skills.
The doctoral degree must have been completed within the five years immediately preceding the first date of appointment as a postdoctoral fellow at the University.
The individual cannot have held previous positions in the professional ranks.

Preferred Qualifications

Scientific Background in arbovirology
Experience with Mass spectrometry and studying protein-protein interactions
Experience using next-generation sequencing and bioinformatics.
Experience working in BSL-2 containment including handling viruses and/or mosquitoes infected with arthropod-borne (arbo) viruses.
Evidence in writing scientific papers and successful grant applications.
Experience mentoring trainees, such as undergraduate students

Compensation Grade
Postdoctoral Scholar

To view the salary schedule for this position, please visit: Salary Schedules. Salary is competitive and commensurate with related education and experience.

Perks of Working at UNR!

Health insurance options including dental and vision - Health Insurance
Generous annual and sick leave, life insurance - Faculty Benefits
E. L. Wiegand Fitness Center offers annual or semester memberships and spouse/domestic partner membership options. E.L. Wiegand Fitness Center
Reno is proud to be a University town! Many local businesses offer discounts to WolfCard holders
Mountain EAP supports employees (and eligible dependents) through life's difficult moments. Mountain EAP is located in Reno and specializes in counseling and advising services for personal or interpersonal issues.
Faculty Senate is the principal representing body for faculty. Its membership includes representatives from each academic and administrative major unit of the University. Faculty Senate
No state income tax!

Faculty Dual Career Assistance Program

The University of Nevada, Reno recognizes the importance of addressing dual-career couples' professional needs. We offer a dual career assistance program to newly hired faculty spouses/partners that provides resources and assists them to identify career opportunities in Northern Nevada. Dual Career Assistance Program

Contact Information

All inquiries should be directed to Dr. Claudia Rckert (crueckert@unr.edu)

Exempt
Yes

Full-Time Equivalent
100.0%

Required Attachment(s)

Please note, once you submit your application the only attachment/s viewable to you will be the attachment/s to the resume/CV section of the application. Any additional required attachment/s to the cover letter, references, additional documents sections of the application, will not be viewable to you after you submit your application. All uploaded attachment/s will be on the application for the committee to review. To request updates to attachments, prior to the committee review of applications, please contact the candidate helpdesk at jobs@unr.edu

Attach the following attachments to your application

1) Resume/CV

2) Cover Letter

3) Contact Information for Three Professional References

This posting is open until filled

Qualified individuals are encouraged to apply immediately. This search will close without notice when a sufficient number of applications are received, or a hiring decision has been made.

Posting Close Date

Note to Applicant

A background check will be conducted on the candidate(s) selected for hire.

HR will attempt to verify academic credentials upon receipt of hiring documents. If the academic credentials cannot be verified, HR will notify the faculty member that an official transcript of their highest degree must be submitted within thirty days of the faculty member's first day of employment.

References will be contacted at the appropriate phase of the recruitment process.

Applicants hired on a federal contract may be subject to E-Verify.

As part of the hiring process, applicants for positions in the Nevada System of Higher Education may be required to demonstrate the ability to perform job-related tasks.

For positions that require driving, evidence of a valid driver's license will be required at the time of employment and as a condition of continued employment.

Schedules are subject to change based on organizational needs.

The University of Nevada, Reno is committed to providing a place of work and learning free of discrimination on the basis of a person's age (40 or older), disability, whether actual or perceived by others (including service-connected disabilities), gender (including pregnancy related conditions), military status or military obligations, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, national origin, race (including hair texture and protected hairstyles such as natural hairstyles, afros, bantu knots, curls, braids, locks and twists), color, or religion (protected classes).

About Us

The University of Nevada, Reno is a leading public research university committed to the promise of a future powered by knowledge. Founded in 1874 as Nevada's original land-grant university, the University serves more than 23,000 undergraduate and graduate students from all 50 states and 63 countries.

Classified by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education as an R1 ("Very High Research") university, it is also recognized in the Carnegie Community Engagement classification. The University is also ranked by U.S. News & World Report among the "Best National Universities" and "Best National Public Universities." It also ranks in the top tier of the WSJ/Times Higher Education World University Rankings and the New York Times' "Top Colleges for Economic Diversity."

Since 2009, nearly $1 billion has been has invested in advanced labs, facilities, and residence halls on the main campus. The University is home to Nevada's first medical school - the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine and the Wayne L. Prim Campus at Lake Tahoe, where education, research, and creative work thrive in a stunning mountain setting. The University delivers on its original land-grant mission with outreach across the state through the University of Nevada, Reno Extension, Nevada Agricultural Experiment Station, Nevada Bureau of Mines and Geology, Nevada Small Business Development Center, the Nevada Seismological Laboratory, and Wolf Pack Athletics.

The main campus is in Reno, Nevada, a burgeoning global technology hub with a vibrant midtown and downtown. Found where the high desert of the Great Basin meets the High Sierra and Lake Tahoe, the beautiful, 290-acre main campus is also a Nevada State Arboretum. The University's physical infrastructure is expanding with ongoing construction of the newly named John Tullock Business Building, set to open in fall 2025. Groundbreaking is also planned for a new State Public Health Laboratory Building on campus, alongside the recent acquisition of 16 parcels near campus, known as "University Village," to provide affordable housing for graduate students and early career faculty.

Collaborating with world-renowned organizations, the University fosters innovation through initiatives such as the Digital Wolf Pack partnership with Apple, which ensures equitable access to technology for students, providing new incoming freshman or transfer students with an iPad Air and accessories. Google's TechWise initiate is an 18-month program that fully supports undergraduate students in becoming entry-level software engineers by graduation.

In 2023, the U.S. Department of Commerce's Economic Development Administration (EDA) announced that Nevada - led by the University of Nevada, Reno - was named one of the inaugural 31 Regional Technology and Innovation Hubs (TechHubs). Nevada was selected from a competitive pool of 489 applicants from across the United States and its territories. Nevada's Tech Hub will strengthen America's lithium batteries, critical elements and other electric vehicle materials industry sectors within the state.

Through its commitment to high-impact education, world-improving research and creative activity, and outreach that's transforming Nevada's communities and businesses, the University continues its 150-year tradition of benefitting our state, nation and world.

The University recognizes that diversity promotes excellence in education and research. The inclusive and engaged community on campus recognizes the added value that students, faculty, and staff from different backgrounds bring to the educational experience.

Today, the University delivers on its original land-grant mission of access to education and knowledge by investing in the academics, facilities, support, engagement and vibrant campus life that promote our diverse students' cognitive growth and academic achievement - all while remaining one of the best values in American higher education.

For more information, please visit the University's website.

University of Nevada, Reno

To apply, visit https://nshe.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/en-US/UNR-external/job/University-of-Nevada-Reno---Main-Campus/Postdoctoral-Scholar--Biochemistry---Molecular-Biology_R0148996?workerSubType=dddb2e55fbdf014cc806bd19c034ed08&workerSubType=dddb2e55fbdf011e7533c019c034ee08&workerSubType=dddb2e55fbdf0125f832c319c034ef08

Founded in 1874, the University of Nevada, Reno is the State of Nevadas land grant institution with a statewide mission and presence. The University of Nevada, Reno is a Carnegie I Research Institution and has been recognized as a "Top Tier" Best National University by U.S. News & World Report. With an enrollment of nearly 21,000 students we offer 145 Tier 1 accredited degree programs. Located in the picturesque Truckee Meadows the University of Nevada, Reno is surrounded by numerous state and national parks, is 45 minutes from beautiful Lake Tahoe, and four hours from San Francisco.

The University of Nevada, Reno recognizes that diversity promotes excellence in education and research. We are an inclusive and engaged community and recognize the added value that students, faculty, and staff from different backgrounds bring to the educational experience.

The Nevada System of Higher Education (NSHE) is committed to providing a place of work and learning free of discrimination on the basis of a persons age, disability, whether actual or perceived by others (including service-connected disabilities), gender (including pregnancy related conditions), military status or military obligations, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, national origin, race, or religion.