Postdoctoral Research Associate in Microbial Ecology
The Eco-Evo Lab at California State University, Northridge is searching for a post-doctoral researcher with skills in microbial ecology and interests in community ecology, evolutionary ecology, or eco-evo feedbacks. The position includes one year of funding, with potential for a second year renewal, from a recent grant from the National Science Foundation. The grant focuses on eco-evolutionary dynamics of protozoa and bacteria that live inside carnivorous pitcher plants. The goal is to examine how dispersal and genetic variation affect the relative effect of rapid evolution and adaptation on ecological processes at the local scale.
The post-doc will be based in Casey terHorst’s lab at Cal State Northridge in Los Angeles, CA, but will also work closely with Catalina Cuellar-Gempeler at Humboldt State University and Tom Miller at Florida State University. Candidates should have a Ph.D. or equivalent degree in microbiology, ecology, evolution, or a related field. A successful candidate must be able to work independently conducting experiments in both lab and field settings. As the goal of the project is to examine how protozoan (predator) evolution affects bacteria (prey) communities, experience with aseptic techniques, molecular work, and bioinformatics associated with the study of microbial communities is a plus. A record of publication in this area of research will strengthen an application.
The Eco-Evo lab is committed to fostering diversity in STEM. The post-doc will be expected to train, mentor, and serve as a role model to students that are underrepresented in the field of ecology. CSUN is a Hispanic-Serving Institution and an Asian-American-Pacific Islander-Serving Institution. Women and members of underrepresented groups in ecology are especially encouraged to apply. In addition, teaching opportunities may also be available, but are not required.
Salary will be based on relevant experience. Interested candidates should combine the following into a single pdf file: (1) a cover letter or short (~1-2 pages) statement that describes your past and future research interests, (2) a CV, (3) names and contact information for two potential references. Submit the single pdf file via email to casey.terhorst@csun.edu. The ideal start date is January 2019, but this date is flexible. Initial review of applications will begin on September 1, 2018. If you plan on attending the Ecological Society of America meeting in New Orleans in August, please contact Casey terHorst (casey.terhorst@csun.edu) to try to meet up there. For more information about research interests in the lab, visit ecoevolab.com.
Here is a pdf of this ad, if that is easier to share with others: Postdoc Ad
