ʻIke Wai Postdoctoral Researcher

Regular, Full-Time, RCUH Non-Civil Service position with the School of Ocean and Earth Science and Technology (SOEST), located in Honolulu, Hawai‘i.  Continuation of employment is dependent upon program/operational needs, satisfactory work performance, availability of funds, and compliance with applicable Federal/State laws. 

MINIMUM MONTHLY SALARY:  $3,416/Mon. 

DUTIES:  The ‘Ike Wai project will produce data and models that address the grand challenge of water sustainability in Hawai‘i.  The project includes faculty from the University of Hawai‘i (UH) Manoa School of Ocean and Earth Science and Technology, the College of Engineering, the College of Natural Sciences, the Social Science Research Institute, the Water Resources Research Center and UH Hilo and Chaminade University and stakeholders.  For additional project information, please visit www.hawaii.edu/espcor.  Designs, conducts and coordinates geochemical and/or microbial geochemistry field research programs and projects.  Includes research into microbial ecology and/or the physico-chemical parameters that influence groundwater chemistry, microbial diversity, structure and/or biogeography in the subsurface.  Designs and manages all aspects of microbiogeochemical fieldwork related to the research objectives.  Conducts molecular analysis and bioinformatics analysis in coordination with geochemical data analysis for integrated data interpretation.  Prepares scientific manuscripts and reports based on the results of field program.  ‘Ike Wai Postdoctoral Scholars will collaborate with scientists and students across disciplines in professional development training in areas such as leadership, diversity, pedagogy and mentoring.  Within the objectives and scope of ‘Ike Wai, this position will have significant flexibility in defining projects that capitalize on the diverse expertise and collaborative interests of the team as they relate to water sustainability.  Participates in a work environment that encourages knowledge of, respect for, and development of skills to engage with indigenous communities in Hawai‘i and the Pacific on issues surrounding water sustainability.  Successful candidates must be committed to working with diverse student and community populations that reflect the University’s Native Hawaiian Pacific Island-serving context. 

PRIMARY QUALIFICATIONS: EDUCATION/TRAINING:  PhD from an accredited college or university in microbiology/geochemistry related field, preferably obtained within the last four years.  Track record of publication in peer-reviewed journals.  EXPERIENCE:  At least three (3) years of experience in hydrogeochemical and/or microbial research. Experience through participating in or leading field sampling expeditions. Experience with hydrological research.  Experience working in a collaborative environment in an institution of higher education or similar organization.  ABIL/KNOW/SKILLS:  Knowledge of bioinformatics and statistical analysis of high-throughput sequencing datasets for microbial ecology studies.  Familiar with groundwater geochemical processes.  Excellent oral and written communication skills.  Able to collect sterile field samples.  Able to manage resources, schedules, and personnel to effectively and efficiently complete research projects.  Able to communicate effectively in a variety of formats.  Able to prioritize tasks responsibly and document decisions and procedures.  Able to establish and maintain effective working relationships with internal and external organizations, groups, team members and individuals.  PHYSICAL/MEDICAL REQUIREMENTS:  Able to lift and carry up to twenty (20) pounds. POLICY AND/OR REGULATORY REQUIREMENTS:  As a condition of employment, employee will be subject to all applicable RCUH policies and procedures and, as applicable, subject to University of Hawai‘i's and/or business entity's policies and procedures.  Violation of RCUH's, UH's, or business entity's policies and/or procedures or applicable State or Federal laws and/or regulations may lead to disciplinary action (including, but not limited to possible termination of employment, personal fines, civil and/or criminal penalties, etc.). 

SECONDARY QUALIFICATIONS:  Experience with environmental molecular biology techniques (such as DNA extraction, amplification, and/or NextGen library preparation) as well as a range of geochemical analytical techniques and applications. 

APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS: Please go to www.rcuh.com and click on “Job Postings.” You must submit the following documents online to be considered for the position: 1) Cover Letter, 2) Resume, 3) Salary History, 4) Supervisory References, 5) Copy of Degree(s)/Transcript(s)/Certificate(s). All online applications must be submitted/received by the closing date (11:59 P.M. Hawai‘i Standard Time/RCUH receipt time) as stated on the job posting. If you do not have access to our system and the closing date is imminent, you may send additional documents to rcuh_employment@rcuh.com. If you have questions on the application process and/or need assistance, please call (808)956-8344 or (808)956-0872.