Job Description - The Higgins Lab is seeking an enthusiastic and organized critical thinker to join our research group. We are interested in identifying and characterizing novel microbial natural product biosynthetic enzymes that catalyze unique biochemical reactions. Using bioinformatics analysis, we have identified numerous natural product biosynthetic gene clusters that encode for uncharacterized enzymes that likely produce novel natural product structures. We are looking for a candidate who has expertise in natural product isolation/structure determination and/or elucidating microbial natural product biosynthetic pathways. The ideal candidate will have expertise in small molecule extraction, isolation, and structure determination. Additionally, experience with genetic manipulation of bacteria would be beneficial. Candidates will have the opportunity to gain valuable bioinformatics, protein biochemistry, and structural biology skills. Candidates will also be involved in writing manuscripts and training/mentoring graduate and undergraduate students.

Responsibilities - Responsibilities will include wet lab work (natural product isolation and identification), training and mentoring graduate and undergraduate students, and writing manuscripts.

Qualifications - The ideal candidate holds a PhD in biochemistry, chemistry, chemical biology or related field and has experience with natural product isolation and/or natural product biosynthesis elucidation.

Contact - Melanie Higgins, mahiggins1@ua.edu

Job Confirmation # - 207172303

Post End Date - 11/30/2022