"Postdoctoral Fellow Nett Lab"

Position Description

The Nett lab seeks to understand how plants synthesize complex, bioactive small molecules, as well as how these molecules function in nature and in the context of human health. We are looking to hire postdoctoral fellows that share this interest in understanding the intricacies of plant chemistry and biology. Research in the Nett lab spans multiple, distinct projects that are all unified by the chemistry of plants, including: 1) evolutionary and biochemical characterization of neofunctionalized enzymes in plant metabolism, 2) elucidation and engineering of biosynthetic pathways for high-value molecules from plants, and 3) identifying the native targets of bioactive plant small molecules. Opportunities to contribute to each of these projects are available. Start dates are flexible to the timeline of the successful candidate.

The projects in the Nett lab will provide the opportunity to gain experience with multiple, interdisciplinary techniques, including metabolic engineering of high-value plant molecules, plant synthetic biology, enzymology, transcriptomics, and metabolomics. As this work exists at the interface of biology, chemistry, and engineering, applicants with training and education in any of these areas, or related fields, will be considered. Postdocs in the lab will also have the chance to mentor graduate students, undergrads, and other trainees, and will be given opportunities to participate in grant writing, peer review, and other career-building activities.

Basic Qualifications

A Ph.D. is required. Previous research experience in molecular biology, biochemistry, chemical biology, transcriptomics, proteomics, and/or metabolomics is recommended.

Additional Qualifications

Demonstrated record of research achievement
Strong written and oral communication skills
Ability to work independently and as part of a team

Contact Information

Assistant Professor Ryan Nett
Biological Labs, Rm 3035
16 Divinity Avenue
Cambridge, MA 02138
Camila Ossa (Administrator)
camila_ossa@harvard.edu

Contact Email: rnett@fas.harvard.edu

Special Instructions

Letters of recommendation are not required at the time of application; however, letters will be collected for finalists. Candidates should submit with their application contact information for two to three references from experts at the ladder faculty ranks or highly accomplished senior researchers from corporations or research institutes.

Please include the following items as part of your application:

• Cover Letter, including a brief explanation of your research interests, research accomplishments, and reasons for pursuing a research position in the Nett lab.
• CV
• Name and contact information for 2-3 references.

Equal Opportunity Employer

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions or any other characteristic protected by law.