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
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.
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.
Spartans work every day to advance the common good in uncommon ways.Together, we tackle some of the world?s toughest problems to find solutions that make life better?from alternative energy to better food safety to breakthrough medical and environmental applications achieved through rare isotope research.We teach. We explore and we discover. We collaborate and lead. We innovate, inspire, and empower. We achieve our potential and create circumstances that help our students and others achieve theirs.We're good at it, and we've been at it for more than 150 years.The nation?s pioneer land-grant university, MSU began as a bold experiment that democratized higher education and helped bring science and innovation into everyday life. The revolutionary concept became a model for the nation.Today, MSU is one of the top research universities in the world?on one of the biggest, greenest campuses in the nation. Home to nationally ranked and recognized academic, residential college, and service-learning programs, we?re a diverse community of dedicated students and scholars, athletes and artists, scientists and leaders.In ways both practical and profound, we work to create a stronger, more sustainable, and more hopeful future for all.