Microbiome and Disease Ecology Post-doctoral Position at Virginia Tech
An NSF-funded postdoctoral position is available in the labs of Dr. Dana Hawley and Dr. Lisa Belden in the Department of Biological Sciences at Virginia Tech. The candidate will work across labs to investigate the role of the host microbiome in infectious disease dynamics, using the pathogen Mycoplasma gallisepticum and its natural songbird host, house finches. The incumbent will be responsible for conducting fieldwork, overseeing captive studies of disease transmission in house finches, using molecular techniques to assess host microbiomes, and using bioinformatics and statistical approaches to evaluate variation in host conjunctival microbiomes and disease dynamics. The incumbent will also assist in mentoring undergraduate researchers. Position includes a competitive salary and fringe benefits. Funding is available for up to three years, renewable annually based on performance. The Hawley and Belden labs value all types of diversity and strive to be safe spaces for all individuals to thrive.
Minimum qualifications include a Ph.D. in biology, ecology, evolutionary biology, or a related field; strong oral and written communication skills; the ability to work independently and as part of a research group; and a demonstrated ability to produce peer-reviewed publications. Candidates with a background in disease ecology, community ecology, molecular ecology and/or environmental microbiology will be given preference.
Interested candidates should submit a curriculum vitae and statement of interest upon applying online at www.jobs.vt.edu (posting # SR0180159), along with contact information for three professional references. If you have any questions regarding this position, please contact the search chair, Dr. Dana Hawley at [email protected] or 540/231-8946.
Review of applications will begin Oct 10th, 2018 and continue until the position is filled. The proposed start date is negotiable, but could be as early as January 2, 2019. Virginia Tech is an Equal Opportunity/ Affirmative Action Institution. Individuals with disabilities desiring accommodations in the application process should notify the search chair by Oct 10, 2018.