Postdoctoral Fellowship in Algal Biodiversity & Biofuels School of Natural Resources and Environment University of Michigan
A postdoctoral fellowship is available for a highly qualified individual to join the Cardinale lab at the University of Michigan to work on an NSF Emerging Frontiers in Research and Innovation (EFRI) grant that examines how algal biodiversity influences the efficiency and sustainability of algal biofuel production. The goal is to develop multi-species photosynthetic systems that express the complementary genes, metabolic pathways, and biological traits needed to increase the efficiency, yield, and stability of biofuel yields relative to current monoculture systems. The project includes field and laboratory experiments, as well as life-cycle analyses to assess the ecological footprint and commercial viability of multi-species biorefineries. Collaborators include Dr.'s Phil Savage – a chemical engineer at the University of Michigan, Nina Lin - a microfluidics expert at the University of Michigan, and Todd Oakley – a phylogeneticist at the University of California-Santa Barbara. The ideal applicant would have expertise in algal ecology, biodiversity and ecosystem functioning/services, biofuel synthesis, or ecological genomics. The successful applicant will lead at least one of the proposed experiments, and will be expected to develop their own research program to compliment the broader goals of the project. Applicants must have an excellent record of publication, strong experimental and quantitative skills, and be comfortable leading a team of undergraduate researchers. Prior experience working with freshwater algae is desirable. The fellowship offers a highly competitive salary plus benefits. The initial appointment is for one year, and continuation of funding is available for a second year provided satisfactory progress on research goals. Consideration of applications is ongoing and will continue until the position is filled. Individuals from under-represented groups are especially encouraged to apply. The Cardinale lab is in the School of Natural Resources and Environment at the University of Michigan (http://snre.umich.edu/cardinale/). U of M was recently ranked 15th on the Times Higher Education’s list of the world’s top 200 universities, and Ann Arbor is routinely ranked as one of the best places to live in the U.S. due to its affordability, natural beauty, preservation of wooded areas, vibrant arts program, and lively downtown landscape. To apply, email a cover letter stating your research accomplishments and interests, a curriculum vitae, two representative publications, and the names and contact information for three references to: Bradley J. Cardinale, PhD Email: [email protected] The University of Michigan is an Equal Opportunity/ Affirmative Action Employer.
