POSTDOC: Spatial organization of the microbiome (University of Pittsburgh)
The Wright Lab (http://wrightlabscience.com) is seeking an enthusiastic postdoctoral associate to lead a multi-disciplinary project aimed at understanding the spatial structuring of microorganisms within the microbiome. The successful candidate will develop and apply methods for dissecting the 3D organization of environmental and clinical microbiome samples. The project will involve combining multiple technologies, including robotics and high-throughput sequencing, to map microbial consortia at the sub-millimeter scale. This research provides the opportunity to test theories about how spatial structuring shapes the ecology and evolution of microbial communities. The Wright Lab is a rapidly growing experimental evolution and comparative genomics hybrid wet/dry lab at the University of Pittsburgh. We are affiliated with the Department of Biomedical Informatics, and collaborate closely with other experimental evolution and microbiology labs on campus. Our lab offers opportunities to gain experience giving presentations, lecturing, mentoring students, & writing proposals and papers. We are part of a broader effort to make the University of Pittsburgh a leader in applying evolution to the improvement of medicine. The university consistently ranks in the top 10 nationally for biomedical research funding. Pittsburgh, PA is often voted the most livable city in the US featuring eclectic neighborhoods, diverse culinary and entertainment opportunities, as well as easy access to natural areas (http://www.coolpgh.pitt.edu/). QUALIFICATIONS: Qualifications for this position include a PhD in microbiology, ecology, evolutionary biology, or a related field. Ideal candidates would have experience in metagenomics or amplicon sequencing, be excited to learn new bioinformatics skills, and be willing to engineer new experimental devices. The candidate should 1) be fluent in written and spoken English, 2) be able to work independently and as a member of a team, 3) be hard-working, motivated, and eager to learn, & 4) have an interest in the microbiome. TO APPLY: Please email applications (including cover letter, curriculum vitae, & names and email addresses for 3 professional references) to Dr. Erik Wright ([email protected]). The position is available starting as early as February 2018 for 1 year, renewable up to 3 years contingent upon satisfactory performance. Salary is commensurate with experience and includes a comprehensive benefits package. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. Erik Wright [email protected] Assistant Professor Department of Biomedical Informatics University of Pittsburgh Pittsburgh, PA (412) 383-4458 http://www.dbmi.pitt.edu/person/erik-s-wright-phd-ms
