Research Scientist—Plant Molecular Biology and DNA Engineering

JOB SUMMARY:

JOB DUTIES:

30% - Design genome-engineering constructs and plant transformation vectors for multiple concurrent research programs. Translate scientific objectives into fit-for-purpose molecular designs; select promoters coding sequences regulatory elements selectable markers guide RNAs homology templates DNA-excision components and other genetic elements; and evaluate designs for sequence integrity expression assembly feasibility and downstream transformation requirements. 25% - Assemble and sequence-verify recombinant DNA constructs using appropriate cloning DNA assembly bacterial transformation plasmid preparation and quality-control methods. Coordinate DNA synthesis and sequencing services maintain construct inventories and deliver verified plasmids or other DNA materials that meet established quality and scheduling requirements. 20% - Validate constructs and conduct molecular analyses using PCR restriction analysis gel electrophoresis sequencing quantitative or reverse-transcription PCR and other molecular biology techniques. Analyze and interpret construct sequence expression integration editing and DNA-excision data; document results; and recommend whether constructs or events should advance be redesigned or undergo additional testing. 15% - Manage concurrent construct-development workflows and improve platform performance by prioritizing experiments tracking milestones maintaining accurate electronic records and ensuring construct and sample traceability. Troubleshoot design cloning sequencing and validation failures; refine standard operating procedures; and implement workflow improvements that increase throughput reproducibility quality and turnaround time. 10% - Communicate research findings and support collaborative scientific programs by preparing technical reports data summaries figures presentations standard operating procedures scientific manuscripts and sections of grant proposals. Coordinate construct requirements and delivery schedules with Plant Transformation and Tissue Culture bioinformatics greenhouse phenotyping and other program teams and provide regular progress risk and performance updates to the Director.

JOB CODE:

UK07

EMPLOYEE TYPE:

Temporary Grant (TGP) Staff

A Ph.D. and relevant program experience.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

JOB KNOWLEDGE

Fundamental working knowledge of concepts practices and procedures and ability to apply in varied situations.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

Not responsible for supervising employees.

BUDGETARY RESPONSIBILITIES

No fiscal responsibility for the departments budget.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Walk or move about: % Communicate converse give direction express oneself: % Perceive observe clarity of vision: % Recognize or inspect visually: % Extends hands or arms in any direction: %

WORKING CONDITIONS:

None: %

WORK SCHEDULE:

Standard Hours:

37.5

COMPENSATION INFORMATION:

Expected Salary Range

70000 - 80000

Salary is dependent upon several factors including but not limited to a candidates previous experience knowledge skills and performance in accordance with Clemsons compensation guidelines.

ESSENTIAL PERSONNEL LEVEL:

Normal Operations - Required to follow emergency facility closure and modified operations directives and not normally expected to work on-site during emergency situations.

JOB LOCATION:

Clemson SC

APPLICATION DEADLINE:

August 24 2026

MILITARY AND VETERAN:

Military Equivalency: Clemson University is proud to allow educational equivalency for military technical certifications and trainings that directly relate to the job duties.

Veteran Preference: South Carolina provides employment preference to eligible veterans for qualifying full-time permanent positions. To be considered applicants must meet the minimum qualifications have been discharged under honorable conditions and indicate their veteran status in the application by uploading a DD-214 for confidential review. A request for Veteran Preference can be made via the application process. Please contact with any questions or issues.

CLOSING STATEMENT:

Clemson University is an EEO/AA employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to characteristics protected by applicable law including disability and protected veteran status.