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A Research Scientist position is available as part of the Conversion Theme in the new U.S. Department of Energy-funded Bioenergy Research Center (BRC), the Center for Advanced Bioenergy and Bioproducts Innovation (CABBI). The overall goal of the CABBI Sustainability Theme is to develop the predictive capability to determine which feedstock combinations, regions and land types, market conditions, and biofuels and bioproducts have the potential to support the ecologically and economically sustainable displacement of fossil fuels. The incumbent will join a growing team charged with operating, maintaining and developing the Illinois Biological Foundry for Advanced Manufacturing (iBioFAB) ( http://youtu.be/Hwb735qZ-IQ). The iBioFAB is a robotic laboratory automation facility designed to support high-throughput synthetic biology. This position will provide extensive automated application development to support CABBI research efforts such as rapid design, fabrication, validation/quality control, and analysis of genetic constructs and organisms.

MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Operate the iBioFAB and its auxiliary equipment.
  • Identify and implement necessary maintenance, repairs, and upgrades for equipment.
  • Coordinate with CABBI researchers and collaborators to identify their automation needs.
  • Develop automated process modules and workflows that efficiently meet those needs.
  • Determine and provide an appropriate level of training for users of the facility.
  • Coordinate with internal and external software developers to define, develop, and implement the data and logistics management needs of the facility.
  • Become familiar with laboratory and automation vendors, their products, relevant trade and academic literature, and academic and commercial counterparts.
  • Participate in outreach activities such as facility tours, demonstrations, and updating website content.
  • Represent the facility at conferences and presentations.
  • Generate and maintain documentation of automation protocols, project specifications, project design materials, and other documentation needs.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education:

  • Required: MS degree in engineering (electrical, mechanical, industrial, biological, general, and chemical engineering), biology (biochemistry and microbiology), or chemistry (analytical).
  • Preferred: PhD degree in engineering (electrical, mechanical, industrial, biological, general, and chemical engineering), biology (biochemistry and microbiology), or chemistry (analytical).

Experience:

  • Required: A minimum of one year of work experience in biology, chemistry, or related labs
  • Preferred: Experience in molecular or synthetic biology techniques is highly desired. Experience with laboratory or other automation equipment, especially liquid handling. Experience with CAD tools (such as SolidWorks or others) and 3D printing. Experience with circuit design and fabrication (Cadence, Eagle, etc.)Experience with microcontrollers (Arduino, etc.)

Knowledge Requirements:

  • Required: Proficient in at least one of the following programming languages: C++, C#, java, VB, MATLAB, or Python. College level training in general biology, chemistry, physics, transport phenomena, reaction kinetics, unit operations, process design, machines and mechanisms, circuits, algorithms, and data structures. Excellent communication skills and the ability to work well in a team setting.
  • Preferred: Familiarity with web architecture and development tools. Familiarity with databases. Familiarity with machine learning applications.

Salary: Commensurate with experience and qualifications

Appointment Status: Full-time academic professional, grant-supported appointment renewable annually pending continued funding and satisfactory progress within the position. Qualified individuals will be eligible to receive vacation, sick, and personal leave; retirement through the State Universities Retirement System; and group health, dental, vision and life insurance.

Start Date: As soon as possible after the close date

Applications must be received by August 27, 2018. To apply, all candidates must submit an online profile through https://jobs.illinois.edu by the close of the posting period. Qualified candidates must upload a letter of which details qualifications noted above, resume and the names and contact information of three professional references. All requested information must be submitted for your application to be considered. Incomplete applications will not be reviewed. For further information, please contact Erica Hanson, Human Resources, elhanson@illinois.edu.

The University of Illinois conducts criminal background checks on all job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent offer.

The University of Illinois is an Equal Opportunity, Affirmative Action employer. Minorities, women, veterans and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply. For more information, visit http://go.illinois.edu/EEO. To learn more about the University’s commitment to diversity, please visit http://www.inclusiveillinois.illinois.edu