Research Associate

Research AssociateThis position will purify and characterize complex plant carbohydrates, with an emphasis on pectic polysaccharides. The Research Associate will isolate pectins using chromatographic methods, generate structural variants using carbohydrate active enzymes, analyze their composition and structure and dimerization potential. The Research Associate will also contribute to mentorship of students, experimental design, data interpretation, and reporting for the research project.Knowledge of carbohydrate chemistry, including the structure of plant cell wall polysaccharides. Skill in chromatographic purification and analysis of carbohydrates (e.g., size exclusion, ion exchange, HPAEC-PAD, GC-MS). Skill in structural characterization of complex carbohydrates using techniques such as NMR spectroscopy and mass spectrometry. Ability to design, execute, and troubleshoot experiments independently while following laboratory safety protocols. Ability to analyze and interpret experimental data and maintain accurate records. Ability to communicate results clearly in writing and in oral presentations, and to work collaboratively in a research team.Duties/Responsibilities - Structural analysis. Experimental work in structural analysis of complex carbohydrates from rhamnogalacturonan II (RG-II) glycoform variants to identify the structural features controlling dimer self-assembly and glycoenzyme reactions.Duties/Responsibilities - Glycoform generation and characterization. Enzymatic and chemical modification of RG-II, with characterization by HPLC, mass spectrometry, glycosyl composition, and glycosyl-linkage composition analyses.Duties/Responsibilities - Write manuscripts and contribute to grant proposals, prepare quarterly and annual reports, attend lab meetings and project meetings. Prepare PowerPoint presentations and posters for conferences and meetings.Duties/Responsibilities - Supervise and mentor undergraduate and graduate student.Minimum Qualifications - Bachelor's degree in a related field of science and 2 years of professional experiencePreferred Qualifications - Degree in analytical chemistry, organic chemistry, or biochemistry. Expertise in carbohydrate analysis and carbohydrate active enzymes.