A Biologist studies plant and animal life and conducts research in one of many specialized areas. May observe and study different types of animals or plants and their habitats or ecosystems, or study cell biology or microorganisms, or research questions relating to human biology and health.
Research Scientist-Plant Molecular Biology and DNA Engineering Full Time
JR-10524 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 department's 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 candidate's previous experience, knowledge, skills and performance in accordance with Clemson's 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 hrjob@clemson.edu 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. To apply, visit https://clemson.wd12.myworkdayjobs.com/en-US/Clemson_Careers/job/-/Research-Scientist-Plant-Molecular-Biology-and-DNA-Engineering_
