Postdoctoral Fellow: Plant-Mycorrhizal-Bacterial Interactions

We are seeking a postdoc to study plant-mycorrhizal-bacterial interactions in the Environmental Isotope Systems group at Lawrence Livermore National Lab. Research will involve stable isotope probing ‘omics and novel imaging technologies (NanoSIMS and in-development microscopes). Desired candidates will have previous experience studying soil microbial ecology or plant-microbial ecology; experience working with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi is highly desired. https://us.smrtr.io/gp

We are seeking a postdoctoral scientist to study plant-mycorrhizal-bacterial interactions in simplified and soil-based experiments. You will use isotope tracing in combination with ‘omics techniques to dissect interactions in complex soil environments, as well as use next-generation imaging technologies to assess interaction dynamics. We are looking for candidates with a recent PhD in microbial ecology, microbiology, plant biology, or related field. This opportunity is in the Environmental Isotope Systems group in the Nuclear and Chemicals Sciences (NACS) Division as part of a DOE Early Career Award (PI Erin Nuccio). Lawrence Livermore National Lab is located in the California San Francisco Bay Area, and our research team includes active collaborations with external organizations such as UC Berkeley, LBNL, and JGI.

Apply Here: https://us.smrtr.io/gp

Essential Duties

  • Develop and pursue innovative research using 13C and 15N stable isotope probing and ‘omics molecular analysis (metagenomics, metatranscriptomics).
  • Analyze interactions between plants and microbial symbionts (fungal and bacterial) using microscopic and ‘omics approaches.
  • Contribute to the conception, design, and execution of research to address problems in soil carbon cycling, nitrogen cycling, and plant-microbial interactions.
  • Collaborate with other scientists and technical personnel.
  • Perform independent research and lead new projects in the area of environmental microbiome research and isotope-enabled methods development.
  • Publish research results in peer-reviewed scientific or technical journals and present results at external conferences, seminars, and/or technical meetings.

Qualifications

  • PhD in Microbial Ecology, Plant Biology, Microbiology, or related field and demonstrated experience.
  • Experience in designing, running, and analyzing data from soil microbial ecology studies.
  • Experience studying plant, fungal, or bacterial interactions.
  • Experience with bioinformatics and microbial community statistical analysis.
  • Publication record in well-regarded refereed journals.
  • Demonstrated ability as an independent and innovative experimentalist.
  • Demonstrated experience in written and verbal communication skills necessary to deliver presentations and prepare written publications, and reports.

Desired Qualifications

  • Experience working with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi is highly desired.
  • Experience analyzing metagenomic, metatranscriptomic, or metabolomics datasets.
  • Experience with stable isotope probing techniques (e.g., SIP).
Application deadline: Open until filled
Start date: ASAP
Location: Lawrence Livermore National Lab (Livermore, CA, USA; greater San Francisco Bay Area)