Career Center

We are currently looking for a collaborative, self-motivated Postdoctoral Associate to work in the laboratory of Dr. Neil Hunter at the University of California, Davis in Davis, CA. The Hunter lab performs world-leading research in reproductive biology, focused on the process of meiosis. The lab synthesizes cell biology, molecular genetics, and biochemical approaches, with mouse, yeast, and cell/tissue/organ culture models, to understand how chromosomes are accurately distributed into gametes cells. Their major focus is the DNA-repair mechanism called homologous recombination, which is adapted during meiosis to facilitate chromosome pairing and segregation. They strive to understand the molecular mechanisms and regulation of recombination and the influence of genetics and the environment on this essential process, including gender, sexual maturation, aging and chemical contamination. More information about Dr. Hunter and the lab can be found at https://hunterlab.ucdavis.edu/ and https://biology.ucdavis.edu/people/neil-hunter.

The Postdoctoral Associate will conduct research to elucidate the mechanisms and regulation of homologous recombination during meiosis. The chosen candidate will also be expected to collaborate with other group members and extramural scientists when appropriate; and actively contribute and participate within the laboratory group. The primary worksite location is the Hunter laboratory located in Briggs Hall. The chosen candidate will receive extensive specialized training and be afforded ample opportunity to develop an independent research program. This is an excellent opportunity for someone with specific skills, knowledge, and experience in one or more of the following areas: cell biology, yeast genetics, mouse genetics, proteomics, and/or molecular biology.

UC Davis provides a unique research environment for studying homologous recombination and meiosis with over 45 groups working on various aspects of chromosome biology, DNA repair, and reproductive biology with expertise covering the gamut of techniques from single-molecule biophysics through proteomics, genomics, super-resolution imaging, organoid culture, and whole-animal transgenics. The Hunter lab is proud to be part of this diverse and inclusive environment that fosters collaboration and cooperation amongst its members. Quality of life in Davis is unsurpassed with its college-town vibe and easy access to the great outdoors (https://www.ucdavis.edu/campus-life/californias-college-town).

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

RESEARCH AND TRAINING (85%)
Research Activity (70%)
The candidate will make original, creative, and fundamental contributions to research projects in meiotic recombination. This will be done in close collaboration and consultation with Dr. Hunter, members of his laboratory, and outside collaborators. The candidate will be responsible for project development and implementation, including experimental design, coordination with collaborators and contractors, data reduction and final report. They will supervise students and technicians and guide them on techniques and methodology, the proper use of equipment, interpretation of results, troubleshooting, and developing future directions.
Specifically, the candidate will work in one or more of the following areas:

1. functional analysis of protein modification by SUMO, ubiquitin and phosphorylation with a focus on the pro-crossover E3 ligases and kinases, and their targets
2. molecular genetics and cell biology of oocyte quality control, maturation, and aging with a focus on DNA repair, cohesin dynamics and chromosome segregation

Publications (10%)
The candidate will publish research results in peer-reviewed journals, books and other forums either independently or in collaboration with the P.I. or other members of the research team.

Grant Acquisition (5%)
The candidate will assist in securing project funding by researching, writing and editing grant requests and progress reports in collaboration with the P.I.  
 

PROFESSIONAL COMPETENCE (10%)
The candidate will participate in relevant conferences, and the review of research proposals and scientific publications as appropriate. Project results will be presented at seminars, meetings and conferences in universities and other public forums.


UNIVERSITY AND PUBLIC SERVICE (5%)
The candidate will engage in University service activities such as guest lecturing and committee service. They will also help the PI supervise junior researchers.

Qualifications
 

Education
A Ph.D. an area related to cell biology or molecular genetics is required.

Experience

We are looking for candidates with experience managing an independent research project to completion and publication. Experience with a variety of relevant scientific techniques is strongly preferred.

Skills and Abilities

• Ability to learn quickly and to work well both independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to work effectively with a wide variety of people from all backgrounds.
• Ability to train, mentor, and supervise research technicians, students, and other entry-level lab staff.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• High level of professionalism and excellent interpersonal skills.
• Positive attitude with a problem-solving mindset.

Application Instructions
Please include the following items as part of your application (preferably as one PDF):

• A cover letter including a summary of your research experience and your interest in this particular role.
• Your curriculum vitae including list of publications.
• Names and contact information for three professional references.

Physical Requirements

Remaining in a normal seated or standing position for extended periods of time; reaching and grasping by extending hand(s) or arm(s); dexterity to manipulate objects with fingers, for example using a keyboard; communication skills using the spoken word; ability to see and hear within normal parameters; ability to move about workspace. The position requires mobility, including the ability to move materials weighing up to several pounds (such as a laptop computer or tablet).

Persons with disabilities may be able to perform the essential duties of this position with reasonable accommodation. Requests for reasonable accommodation will be evaluated on an individual basis.

Please Note:

This job description sets forth the job’s principal duties, responsibilities, and requirements; it should not be construed as an exhaustive statement, however.  Unless they begin with the word “may,” the Essential Duties and Responsibilities described above are “essential functions” of the job, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act.

HHMI is an Equal Opportunity Employer