Specialist - Research-Fixed Term

Position Summary

The Research Specialist will support a newly established laboratory in the Department of Plant Biology by leading advanced research in plant molecular biology, with a focus on amino acid metabolism, synthetic biology, and multi-omics integration. This position will play a key role in designing and executing experiments, developing innovative methodologies, and contributing to high-impact publications and grant proposals. The Research Specialist will also assist with laboratory operations and mentor students, helping to build a strong, collaborative, and productive research environment. The initial appointment is for a one year term and is not guaranteed to continue beyond that period. Any extension would be contingent upon operational needs, available funding, and satisfactory performance.

As part of its land-grant identity, MSU seeks to advance knowledge and transform lives by providing outstanding undergraduate, graduate and professional education; conducting research of the highest caliber; and advancing outreach, engagement and economic activities. We are committed to the highest ethical and academic standards, transparent decision making, and accountable governance. As a community, we commit to live these values.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Required Degree

Doctorate -Plant Sciences

Minimum Requirements

• Ph.D. in Plant Biology, Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, or a related field
• Demonstrated experience in plant molecular genetics and functional genomics
• Experience working with Arabidopsis or crop systems
• Expertise in at least two of the following areas:
  • Synthetic biology / genome editing
  • Protein interaction mapping
  • Multi-omics analysis
  • Nutrient signaling or metal homeostasis

Desired Qualifications

• Experience engineering metabolic pathways or nutrient transport systems
• Background in translatomics or proteome regulation
• Experience developing high-throughput experimental pipelines
• Teaching or mentoring experience with a commitment to inclusive practices

Required Application Materials

Complete applications must include: 1) a cover letter summarizing qualifications for the job; 2) a curriculum vitae with academic appointments, professional experience, research outputs (funded grants, publications, invited seminars, etc.), teaching experience, and service roles; and 3) contact information for 3 references. Successful applicants are expected to summarize their contributions to core institutional values throughout their application materials. Letters of recommendation will only be requested for top applicants.

Special Instructions

Deadline for receipt of applications
Complete applications must be received preferably by May 27, 2026, to receive full consideration. Late submissions will be considered if suitable candidates are not identified by the deadline. 

Contact information
Dr. Ruthie Angelovici
Department of Plant Biology
Michigan State University
Email: angelovici@msu.edu

Review of Applications Begins On

05/27/2026

Website

https://plantbiology.natsci.msu.edu/

Department Statement

The Department of Plant Biology at Michigan State University is a collaborative and interdisciplinary unit within the College of Natural Science, with strengths in plant molecular biology, genetics, and systems biology. As part of a leading land-grant research university, the department is committed to advancing scientific discovery and addressing global challenges in agriculture, sustainability, and food security.

Michigan State University is a top public research institution dedicated to advancing knowledge and transforming lives through education, research, and outreach. The university’s strategic plan emphasizes innovation, collaboration, and impactful research, supported by core values of integrity, excellence, and service.

This position offers the opportunity to join a dynamic and growing research program with access to strong institutional resources, interdisciplinary partnerships, and a supportive research environment.

For more information, please visit:

https://strategicplan.msu.edu/

https://natsci.msu.edu/

https://plantbiology.natsci.msu.edu/

MSU Statement

Michigan State University has been advancing the common good with uncommon will for more than 160 years. One of the top research universities in the world, MSU pushes the boundaries of discovery and forges enduring partnerships to solve the most pressing global challenges while providing life-changing opportunities to a diverse and inclusive academic community through more than 200 programs of study in 17 degree-granting colleges.