Fwd: Job: UKansas.LabTech.ComplexTraits

[Ellen Hostert]

Hi,

This is a job ad from an amazing researcher, a position like this could be a good bridge into graduate school.  And it's with flies!

Dr. Hostert

---------- Forwarded message ---------
From: <evo...@evol.biology.mcmaster.ca>
Date: Tue, Apr 7, 2026 at 12:40 AM
Subject: Job: UKansas.LabTech.ComplexTraits
To: <ehos...@maine.edu>

A research assistant / lab technician position is available in my lab
at KU to work on various projects geared towards exploring the genetic
analysis of complex trait variation in flies. We work on a bunch of
traits from aging to toxicant resistance, and this position will involve
both fly work and molecular biology/genomics work. Experience with flies
would be a plus, but isn't required. The formal announcement, and links
to the institutional employment website are provided below. Feel free
to email me with any questions. Stuart Macdonald (sj...@ku.edu)




Position Overview:
A research assistant position is available in the Macdonald lab
in the Department of Molecular Biosciences at the University of
Kansas. We explore the genetic basis of complex trait variation using
the fruit fly Drosophila as a model system, working on a diverse set
of traits, including response to heavy metals and other toxicants,
and lifespan/aging.

The successful candidate will help maintain fly strains and populations
of flies, supervise and carry out large-scale phenotyping screens,
and perform a range of molecular biology procedures, including making
next-generation sequencing libraries for various genomics applications.

We are looking for an enthusiastic and organized individual who wants
to learn new skills, and has excellent oral and written communication
skills. Previous research assistants in the Macdonald group have
undertaken independent research projects and have been authors on
research publications from the lab. The position is funded through NIH
grants and has an anticipated start date of June 1, 2026 (although this
is very flexible/negotiable).


Job Description:
50% - Generate, maintain and use Drosophila strains/populations for
genetic analysis. Examples of the work include stock maintenance,
preparing media, carrying out crosses, and assaying strains/populations
for phenotypic variation (e.g., stress tolerance).
30% - Carry out a range of molecular biology procedures. Examples of the
work include DNA and RNA isolation, PCR, and next generation sequencing
library construction (e.g., for RNAseq or whole-genome sequencing).
10% - Perform general lab tasks, including inventory and ordering of
supplies, and working with undergraduate students.
10% - Keep accurate and detailed records. Maintain an up-to-date and
accurate lab notebook, keep a detailed digital record of all experimental
results, and regularly present data/results to Dr. Macdonald.


Required Qualifications:
(1) High school diploma/GED and 4 years of related experience OR a
Bachelor's degree in a related field. (2) Previous experience with
molecular biology techniques (e.g., PCR), as evidenced by application
materials. (3) Effective written communications skills as evidenced by
application materials.

Preferred Qualifications:
(1) Bachelor's degree in biology or a related field. (2) Experience with
Drosophila husbandry. (3) Significant laboratory experience, including
troubleshooting and optimizing protocols. (4) Experience making next
generation sequencing libraries (e.g., RNAseq libraries). (5) Prior
experience managing large scientific projects, including managing
undergraduate assistants.


Application:
For a complete announcement and to apply online, go to
employment.ku.edu/staff/32410BR

A complete application includes the following: (1) A cover letter
outlining relevant experience and interest in the position, (2) a
CV/resume highlighting pertinent experience relative to the required
and preferred qualifications, and (3) contact information for three
professional references.

Informal queries about the position are welcome, and can be directed to
Dr. Stuart Macdonald (sj...@ku.edu, 785-864-5362).

Review of applications will begin April 14, 2026 and will continue until
the position is filled.







Dr. Stuart J Macdonald
he, him, his

University of Kansas
(785) 864-5362
sj...@ku.edu

Professor
Department of Molecular Biosciences
4043 Haworth Hall, 1200 Sunnyside Avenue, Lawrence, KS 66045
molecularbiosciences.ku.edu

Google Scholar: https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=pTXRo_gAAAAJ&hl=en
ORCiD: http://orcid.org/0000-0002-9421-002X




"Macdonald, Stuart" <sj...@ku.edu>

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Important!  I check email once a day, and often not at all on weekends.  I will respond to your message.  Thank you for your patience.

Ellen E. Hostert, Ph.D. (she/her)
Professor of Biology
University of Maine at Machias
116 O'Brien Avenue
Machias, ME 04654
(207) 255-1301
ehos...@maine.edu