Associate Professor

The J. Craig Venter Institute (JCVI) is a world leader in genomic research with approximately 120 scientists and staff who are bold innovators fearlessly pursuing revolutionary ideas. With a long track-record of creativity and an interdisciplinary approach to genomics, JCVI is committed to accelerating foundational scientific research to drive advances in human health and environmental sustainability.

Position Summary

This position is responsible for initiating and managing innovative research projects in areas related to the strategic goals of JCVI. Associate Professors are expected to be research and project leaders for independently funded projects (as PIs or co-PIs) and to serve as leaders and major contributors for larger team projects involving multiple Professors. They are recognized nationally and internationally as important contributors to their research field.

Essential Functions

• As a Principal Professor, initiates, seeks outside funding for, and manages an independent research portfolio comprising R01 type research grants and/or team projects in defined areas related to the goals of the Institute.
• Significantly contributes to the conceptualization and writing of research proposals in order to obtain grant/contract funding.
• Identifies research project needs and ensures projects are brought to successful completion.
• Designs and executes/implements scientific experiments/tools; analyzes and interprets experimental results.
• Trains and supervises other faculty members, staff scientists, post-doctoral fellows, and/or research associates, and/or students, and/or data specialists assigned to the Department. They also function as mentors for junior faculty and other scientific staff to promote career development, increase productivity, and provide new research opportunities.
• Attends scientific meetings and trainings to keep abreast of latest scientific findings and developments.
• Publishes results of scientific work in peer-reviewed journals or equivalent on a consistent basis.
• Keeps current on research efforts in specific scientific discipline and advances knowledge of related scientific fields through continued reading of literature.
• Attends and participates in national and international scientific meetings.
• Participates in JCVI laboratory meetings and scientific working groups.
• Responsible for the integration of environmental, health and safety protocols into work activities. This includes reporting potential hazards and when necessary, helping to implement solutions to ensure safety and respect for the environment.
• Supervises staff to provide guidance and counseling for effective employee relations to include performance appraisals, regular performance feedback and direction.
• Performs other duties as assigned.
• Strictly adheres to all documented JCVI policies and procedures to include conducting all functions required of Institute employees (i.e., completion of timesheets in an accurate and timely manner).

Prerequisites

• M.D. or Ph.D. in relevant scientific Field o such as Molecular biology, Biochemistry, Pharmacology, Immunology, Microbiology, Neuroscience, Synthetic Biology, Engineering Biology, or Genomics required. Minimum of five years post-doctoral experience performing duties similar to the above. Supervisory experience preferred. Individuals who do not hold a Ph.D. or M.D. but with comparable experience in a relevant field and have demonstrated exceptional scientific accomplishments and technology development may also be eligible.
• Demonstrated ability to effectively supervise staff.
• High level of discretion for confidential work and information; ability to appropriately manage critical information and sensitive situations.
• Must play a significant role in obtaining funding for research projects.
• Demonstrated ability to lead projects from beginning to successful completion.
• Has an established publications record in their field.
• Must be able to initiate and conduct investigations in relevant scientific areas.
• Must be able to formulate experimental hypotheses and analyze and interpret scientific data.
• Superior verbal and written communications skills.
• Strong computer aptitude, including experience with word processing and/or spreadsheet software and/or data analysis and database software.
• Familiarity with standard laboratory safety procedures and equipment.
• Excellent organization and time management skills.
• Flexibility to manage a variety of tasks and shift priorities simultaneously.
• Strong people skills: ability to effectively interact with all levels of staff and external contacts; ability to work as an effective team member.
• Cooperative and service-oriented attitude; must be able to work under pressure and maintain a professional demeanor.
• Ability to use sound judgment to effectively solve problems within the scope of the position.
• High level of initiative and ability to work with minimum supervision.

Work Environment
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