Postdoctoral opportunity to study venom as a key trait facilitating snake diversification.
The laboratory of Christopher Parkinson at the University of Central Florida is looking for a highly motivated postdoc to help advance a newly funded NSF/FAPESP Dimensions of Biodiversity award (USA & Brazil). This collaborative award involves Lisle Gibbs at Ohio State University, Darin Rokyta at Florida State University and, in Brazil, Ignacio Azevedo, Ana Moura, and Erika Hingst-Zaher at the Butantan Institute and Hussam Zaher at the University of Sao Paulo. We will be investigating the evolution of venom in the traditionally classified venomous snakes as well as studying several lineages of "nonvenomous" snakes to understand venom function and diversification as it relates to the speciation process. This project involves full-genome analyses, venom-gland transcriptomics, quantitative proteomics, phylogenomics, and comparative phylogenetics. Initially, this individual will be responsible for leading and facilitating sample collection in several Latin American countries. Once samples are secured, this postdoc will be involved in downstream genomic and proteomic analyses as well as venom functional assays. Qualifications: Candidates should have completed or be within 6-9 months of completing their Ph.D. in an appropriate related field. We are seeking a scientist that has field experience, is creative and talented, has an excellent publication record, is organized, and possesses excellent communication skills. Because this position requires field work in several Latin American counties, the ability to speak Spanish and/or Portuguese is highly desirable. Additionally, it is desirable that the successful candidate have previous experience working with NGS data sets and phylogenetics. The candidate will be expected to secure funding through submission of fellowships and grant applications which will help prepare them for an academic life. The position will be based in Orlando Florida at the University of Central Florida. There will be opportunities to work with and at collaborator institutions. Interested candidates should send their CV, a research/motivation statement, and contact information for three references to Chris Parkinson ([email protected]). Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. Christopher L. Parkinson, Ph.D. Professor, and Special Assistant to the Provost on Faculty Cluster Initiatives Dept. of Biology Rm 424. University of Central Florida 4110 Libra Dr. Orlando, FL 32816-2368 office: 407-823-4847<tel:407-823-4847> fax: 407-823-5769<tel:407-823-5769> http://parkinson.cos.ucf.edu/ [email protected]<mailto:[email protected]>
