Research Scientist, Genetics

The Atlanta Botanical Garden seeks a highly qualified scientist with training in plant population genetics to serve in the role of Research Scientist in Genetics within the Southeastern Center for Conservation (SECC). This candidate will work under the guidance of the Director of Research, leading Conservation Genetics research initiatives across the Southeast and beyond to support the survival of rare species in the wild. This role involves securing external and internal funding to support the Conservation Genetics research program, continuing ongoing research projects, and managing staff in the Conservation Genetics Laboratory and research program including the Conservation Genetics Laboratory Manager, Laboratory Technicians, interns, and volunteers. This position will collaborate across the entire Research, Applied Conservation, and Conservation Partnership Teams to advance our conservation mission. Successful candidates for this role will have demonstrated experience in grant writing, people and project management, as well as skills in laboratory and bioinformatic techniques used in modern plant population genetics. Candidates should be open to working in diverse plant systems, all in need of conservation intervention.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Research: Lead the planning, development, and execution of research in conservation genetics of rare and endangered plants of the Southeastern US and beyond
• Funding: Secure funding from external and internal sources to support conservation genetics research and staff. Write grants to federal and state agencies as well as private foundations to support the conservation genetics research program
• Collaboration: Work closely within the SECC and partner organizations to identify priority projects to support conservation actions. Work with partner agencies to integrate genetic data into species management, restoration, and recovery plans
• Communication: Share written results of research via multiple outlets including peer-reviewed publications, technical reports, and articles to the general public. Present findings at professional conferences, stakeholder meetings, and garden outreach events
• Data Management: Ensure that all data produced in the Conservation Genetics research program is backed up and, when appropriate, is shared publicly concurrent with publication of results
• Management: Supervise and mentor staff, students, interns, and volunteers in conservation genetic research methods, laboratory protocols, and conservation science principles

REQUIREMENTS:

• Ph.D. in botany, plant biology, biology, conservation, or a related science field. A minimum of 3 years of professional working experience (e.g. postdoctoral experience or other post-PhD research experience) is required
• International candidates will be considered; fluent English is required and a work visa is preferred
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a team and independently.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills
• Valid Driver’s License with a good driving record
• Experience with genomic laboratory methods such as reduced representation genome sequencing, e.g. target capture, RADseq or GBS, and whole genome sequencing. Experience analyzing genomic datasets using statistical techniques implemented in modern software packages, e.g. R, bwa, HybPiper, ipyrad is preferred
• Demonstrated leadership skills and experience managing diverse teams
• A strong desire to work on a team is required