Position available in the School of Biological Science at Washington State University with Professor Asaph Cousins. The research objective is to use measurements of leaf CO₂ and H₂O isotope exchange as well as isotope analysis of bulk leaf water and carbon to determine how leaf traits influence photosynthetic water use efficiency in C₄ grasses. Research will focus on 1) how leaf anatomy and cell wall properties influence internal CO₂ and H₂O conductance, and 2) how carbonic anhydrase activity and kinetic properties of phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase (PEPC) can enhance the efficiency of C₄ photosynthesis under drought. This position is funded by the U.S. Department of Energy through a large collaborative proposal that includes nine labs from seven different research/academic institutions.

Preferred starting date is June/July of 2023. The position is initially available for one year with the possibility of four additional years of support. Evaluation of applications will begin March 1^st but the position will remain open until filled.

Salary is competitive and commensurate with education and experience. Supportive career development and mentoring for diverse opportunities. The position comes with benefits including medical, dental, and vision.  Details can be found here: https://hrs.wsu.edu/employees/benefits/benefit-details/  

To apply, please send a letter of application, curriculum vitae, and names with contact information (phone and email) of three references to Dr. Asaph Cousins at acousins@wsu.edu Individuals underrepresented in STEM are strongly encouraged to apply. More information on our research can be found at https://sbs.wsu.edu/asaphcousins

Required Qualifications:

• PhD in Plant Physiology, Biochemistry, or similar area.
• Effective written and oral communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and in a group environment.
• Able to effectively mentor undergraduates and graduate students.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with measurements of leaf gas exchange and isotope analysis.
• Experience with enzymology including extracting enzymes, enzyme activity assays, and measuring enzyme kinetic parameters.
• Experience with or willingness to learn leaf level models of C₃ and C₄ photosynthesis.
• Experience with or willingness to learn electron microscopy and image analysis.
• Experience with or willingness to learn general molecular biology tools (e.g., DNA extractions, PCR, and genotyping).

About School of Biological Sciences, Washington State University

Asaph Cousins, Professor Associate Director of Research School of Biological Sciences Coordinator for the Distinguished Graduate Research Program between PNNL and WSU School of Biological Sciences Washington State University Pullman WA 99164-4236

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