PhD Intern - Engineering Bacterial Metabolism in the Rhizosphere

OverviewThe Earth and Biological Sciences Directorate (EBSD) leads novel and necessary research in three core areas: Atmospheric and Climate Sciences, Biological Sciences, and Environmental Molecular Sciences. The contributions of EBSD staff are many as we continue to elevate the impact of PNNL's science mission: to understand, predict, and control the complex adaptive systems underlying the science behind Earth, energy, and security.Responsibilities​​​Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) in Richland, WA is seeking a highly motivated Ph.D. intern with a strong background in molecular biology, with an emphasis on the transfer of metabolic pathways between bacterial species. The candidate will develop strategies to optimize the expression of heterologous pathways for the degradation of plant-derived photosynthate metabolites exuded by roots. There will be opportunities to network with several large interdisciplinary projects at PNNL that are related to synthetic biology via molecular cloning, genome engineering, and characterization of microbial interactions in communities. Duties will include cloning gene clusters on plasmids, transforming multiple bacterial species with these gene clusters, characterizing grown on multiple substrates, and assessing microbial persistence in plant rhizospheres for different genetic backgrounds. The intern will use the information they gather to develop a strategy to demonstrate selective persistence of microbes in rhizosphere and bulk soil environments.​​Demonstrated ability to create, troubleshoot, and verify plasmids for integration through standard homologous recombination and site-specific recombinases. Also, the ability to analyze plasmid, genome, and transcriptomics sequencing data and characterize strain growth in isogenic and multi-strain cultures. Strong interest in team-based interdisciplinary science, with the willingness and ability to work independently when required.​​QualificationsMinimum Qualifications:

Candidates must be currently enrolled/matriculated in a PhD program at an accredited college.

Minimum GPA of 3.00 is required.

Preferred Qualifications:

​​Currently enrolled Ph.D. student in synthetic biology, microbial ecology, or related field.​

Hazardous Working Conditions/EnvironmentNot applicableAdditional InformationNot applicableTesting Designated PositionThis is not a Testing Designated Position (TDP)About PNNLPacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) is a world-class research institution powered by a highly educated, diverse workforce committed to the values of Integrity, Creativity, Collaboration, Impact, and Courage. Every year, scores of dynamic, driven people come to PNNL to work with renowned researchers on meaningful science, innovations and outcomes for the U.S. Department of Energy and other sponsors; here is your chance to be one of them!At PNNL, you will find an exciting research environment and excellent benefits including health insurance, flexible work schedules and telework options. PNNL is located in eastern Washington State—the dry side of Washington known for its stellar outdoor recreation and affordable cost of living. The Lab’s campus is only a 45-minute flight (or 3 hour drive) from Seattle or Portland, and is serviced by the convenient PSC airport, connected to 8 major hubs.Commitment to Excellence, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Equal Employment OpportunityOur laboratory is committed to a diverse and inclusive work environment dedicated to solving critical challenges in fundamental sciences, national security, and energy resiliency. We are proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. In support of this commitment, we encourage people of all racial/ethnic identities, women, veterans, and individuals with disabilities to apply for employment.Pacific Northwest National Laboratory considers all applicants for employment without regard to race, religion, color, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information (including family medical history), protected veteran status, and any other status or characteristic protected by federal, state, and/or local laws.We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans in our job application procedures and in employment. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, contact us at careers@pnnl.gov .Drug Free WorkplacePNNL is committed to a drug-free workplace supported by Workplace Substance Abuse Program (WSAP) and complies with federal laws prohibiting the possession and use of illegal drugs.HSPD-12 PIV Credential RequirementIn accordance with Homeland Security Presidential Directive 12 (HSPD-12) and Department of Energy (DOE) Order 473.1A, new employees are required to obtain and maintain a HSPD-12 Personal Identity Verification (PIV) Credential. To obtain this credential, new employees must successfully complete and pass a Federal Tier 1 background check investigation. This investigation includes a declaration of illegal drug activities, including use, supply, possession, or manufacture within the last year. This includes marijuana and cannabis derivatives, which are still considered illegal under federal law, regardless of state laws.Mandatory RequirementsPlease be aware that the Department of Energy (DOE) prohibits DOE employees and contractors from having any affiliation with the foreign government of a country DOE has identified as a “country of risk” without explicit approval by DOE and Battelle. If you are offered a position at PNNL and currently have any affiliation with the government of one of these countries, you will be required to disclose this information and recuse yourself of that affiliation or receive approval from DOE and Battelle prior to your first day of employment.Rockstar RewardsRegular Hourly:Employees are offered an employee assistance program and business travel insurance. Employees are eligible for the company funded pension plan and 401k savings plan, once eligibility requirements are met.Temporary Hourly:Employees are offered an employee assistance program and business travel insurance.Click Here For Rockstar Rewards (https://careers.pnnl.gov/rockstar-rewards)Notice to ApplicantsPNNL lists the full pay range for the position in the job posting. Starting pay is calculated from the minimum of the pay range and actual placement in the range is determined based on an individual’s relevant job-related skills, qualifications, and experience. This approach is applicable to all positions, with the exception of positions governed by collective bargaining agreements and certain limited-term positions which have specific pay rules.As part of our commitment to fair compensation practices, we do not ask for or consider current or past salaries in making compensation offers at hire. Instead, our compensation offers are determined by the specific requirements of the position, prevailing market trends, applicable collective bargaining agreements, pay equity for the position type, and individual qualifications and skills relevant to the performance of the position.Minimum SalaryUSD $22.93/Hr.Maximum SalaryUSD $35.00/Hr.