About the Lab
We are currently seeking a proactive Research Specialist to support the lab of Dr. Keiko Torii at the University of Texas at Austin in Austin, Texas.
The Torii lab studies how functional tissue patterns are formed during plant development. We have uncovered key genes, regulatory networks, and signal transduction pathways underpinning the patterning and differentiation of stomata, cellular valves that support our life and sustenance. We are now expanding our research to uncover how environmental stress conditions impact stomatal patterning and differentiation by utilizing transcriptomic and epigenomic, and single cell approaches —work that has broad implications for agricultural sustainability in a changing climate.
Learn more about the Torii Lab here: https://www.plant-stomata.org/
About the Role
This role is approximately 80% research-focused and 20% management-focused, offering a unique balance between independent scientific work and lab operations leadership.
The successful candidate will conduct high-resolution NGS-based analyses to investigate environmental and hormonal control of plant stem cell differentiation. You should be proficient in bulk and single-cell RNA-seq, ChIP-seq, and/or ATAC-seq analyses and standard bioinformatics pipelines. Experience with plant sample preparation and related molecular techniques is highly desirable.
In addition to hands-on research, the Research Specialist will collaborate closely with the PI and lab members to train staff in experimental and computational NGS pipelines, coordinate data management with the Texas Advanced Computing Center, and contribute to a positive, inclusive, and collaborative lab culture.
What We Provide
A competitive compensation package with comprehensive health and welfare benefits
The opportunity to work at a premier research institution as part of HHMI’s national network of scientists
Hands-on experience that builds management and leadership skills within a high-performing research group
The chance to develop and refine administrative and operational skills, including coordination with HHMI and UT Austin research support teams
The opportunity to present research at lab meetings and conferences
The potential, when applicable, to contribute to authorship on scientific manuscripts
What You’ll Do
Research (80%)
Lead and support research projects using bulk and single-cell sequencing, ChIP-seq, ATAC-seq, and related genome-wide profiling approaches
Perform bioinformatic and computational analyses of cell-state transitions, environmental adaptation, and gene regulation using advanced pipelines
Conduct molecular and biochemical experiments as needed to support ongoing projects
Organize and manage day-to-day operations of the lab’s plant science research program
Present findings in lab meetings, and, as appropriate, at regional, national, or international conferences
Contribute to the preparation of manuscripts and other publications
Collaborate with the PI to respond to emergent operational needs (e.g., facility or equipment issues)
Lab Management (20%)
Maintain computational pipelines, organize NGS data, and oversee data storage and repository submissions
Coordinate equipment operation, maintenance, and vendor communications for repairs and training
Maintain documentation, including SOPs, chemical and stock inventories, and personnel training records
Ensure data management and NGS submissions meet compliance standards
Train new lab members in bioinformatics workflows and wet-lab protocols related to transcriptomic and epigenomic studies
What You Bring
PhD in Biological Sciences, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Cell Biology, Structural Biology, Plant Biology, or a related discipline
Proven proficiency in bioinformatics, genomics, transcriptomics, and/or single-cell biology
At least one first-author or major-contributor research publication in a relevant field demonstrating independence
Experience training and mentoring lab personnel on protocols and workflows
Strong ability to supervise, guide, and provide constructive feedback
Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and organizational skills, with high attention to detail
Strong sense of responsibility, ethics, and scientific integrity
Effective communication, teamwork, and time management skills
Working knowledge of laboratory safety regulations and best practices
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). Work may involve possible exposure to malodorous vapors, low dose radiation, contamination by toxic chemicals and acids and presence of carcinogenic substances or other hazardous materials.
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.
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Compensation and Benefits
Our employees are compensated from a total rewards perspective in many ways for their contributions to our mission, including competitive pay, exceptional health benefits, retirement plans, time off, and a range of recognition and wellness programs. Visit our Benefits at HHMI site to learn more.
Compensation Range
$74,500.00 (minimum) - $93,151.76 (midpoint) - $121,100.00 (maximum)Pay Type:
AnnualHHMI’s salary structure is developed based on relevant job market data. HHMI considers a candidate's education, previous experiences, knowledge, skills and abilities, as well as internal consistency when making job offers. Typically, a new hire for this position in this location is compensated between the minimum and the midpoint of the salary range.
HHMI is an Equal Opportunity Employer
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