Postdoc in ocean microbial genomics and evolution

The Louca lab at the University of Oregon (USA) is seeking a postdoc to work on ocean microbial genomics, phylogenomics, ecology and evolution.

Position

We are hiring a postdoctoral researcher to work on ocean microbial metagenomics, genomics, phylogenomics, ecology and evolution, in the Louca laboratory at the University of Oregon. The postdoc will use in-house datasets as well as publicly available data to investigate the effects of anthropogenic change on recent microbial evolutionary responses in the ocean, as well as the effects of dispersal on gene flow across global scales. The postdoc will also have the possibility to explore their own additional research questions related to ocean microbiology. This position is mostly computational, but also involves some lab work.

The main responsibility is research and scientific publishing. The postdoc is expected to develop a research plan early on in coordination with the PI. The postdoc is also expected to assist in student supervision and other minor lab-related activities. The postdoc is expected to relocate to the Eugene area prior to the start of the appointment, however most of the time it will be possible to work from home.

A starting date around Spring/Summer 2022 is preferred. Salary is based on the number of full years of relevant postdoctoral experience and follows NIH NRSA fellowship guidelines (grants.nih.gov/grants/guide/notice-files/NOT-OD-22-049.html). The position includes a generous package of benefits, including contributions to social and health insurance, as determined by University of Oregon policies.The position is for up to 2.5 years, with annual contract renewals conditioned on satisfactory performance.

Skills required

Applicants must have strong experience in bioinformatics, phylogenetics and relevant computer programming (such as in python, R or bash), as well as basic experience in microbial ecology lab work (notably DNA extractions). Experience in any of the following topics is also particularly advantageous: microbiology, molecular biology, microbial genomics, metagenomics, phylogenetics, phylogenomics, microbial oceanography, microbial culturing, mathematical modeling, developing new bioinformatics methods. Applicants must have a proven strong ability to conduct independent quantitative research, to articulate scientific questions and findings, and to publish in respectable scientific journals as first authors. Applicants should hold a PhD in an area of computational biology, microbiology, molecular biology, bioinformatics or related subject by the start date of the appointment.

Resources available

The Louca lab manages a "dry-lab" for computational work and a "wet-lab" for molecular biology, and is also set up for a variety of field work. We manage multiple high-end Mac Pro workstations, and lab members also have access to a supercomputing cluster managed by the University of Oregon. The Institute of Ecology and Evolution comprises a vibrant community of ecologists and evolutionary biologists and offers a variety of opportunities for additional activities, including seminars, journal clubs and social events.

Life in Eugene

Eugene is a relatively safe, quiet, family-friendly and bike-friendly town, located in one of the most idyllic regions of the US, in beautiful Oregon. Whether it's skiing in the winter, hiking or fishing in the summer, or seeking hidden hot-springs in the woods, Eugene is an ideal starting point for nature enthusiasts. Public transport in Eugene is well developed, and UO is conveniently situated within walking distance of the town centre, the beautiful Willamette River and Alton Baker Park.

Equal opportunity

The University of Oregon is an equal opportunity, affirmative action institution committed to cultural diversity and compliance with the ADA. The University encourages all qualified individuals to apply and does not discriminate on the basis of any protected status, including veteran and disability status. The University is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to employees with disabilities. UO prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, national or ethnic origin, age, religion, marital status, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression in all programs, activities and employment practices as required by Title IX, other applicable laws, and policies.

Application procedure

To initiate the application process, contact PI Stilianos Louca by email (contact details at www.loucalab.com). Please include a detailed CV, a list of publications, contact details for 2 potential referees, a description of research experience and interests (maximum 1 page), and any other materials you wish to share that would help us evaluate your suitability (such as authored computer code, graduate course transcripts and grades, etc.). Please also indicate when you would be able to start this position. Applications are being considered until a suitable candidate is found.

Application deadline: Open until filled
Start date: ASAP
Location: University of Oregon, Eugene, USA