The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa A postdoctoral research position in the field of evolutionary biology is available in the laboratory of Dr. Jason Pienaar in the Department of Biological Sciences at the University of Alabama (https://bsc.ua.edu/profiles/jason-pienaar/) This position will entail developing communities of tardigrades, nematodes, and rotifers typically associated with bryophytes into an experimental microcosm for studying cryptobiosis (the ability to suspend metabolic activity and enact morphological and physiological changes to survive complete desiccation). The applicant will in addition interact with the laboratory of Dr. Janna Fierst (https://bsc.ua.edu/profiles/janna-fierst/) to decipher the genomics and transcriptomics underlying cryptobiosis. This position is available for a highly enthusiastic postdoctoral research associate whose primary career interest is to develop expertise in integrative approaches to addressing mechanistic and evolutionary questions of the evolution of enigmatic traits such as cryptobiosis. Depending on academic experience, the primary responsibilities of the post doc could be any combination of: genomic and transcriptomic assembly and analyses; molecular phylogeny development; development of culture techniques to establish lab populations and managing field collections and/or; experimental induction of cryptobiotic states and data collection for phylogenetic comparative method analyses. Other duties will consist of gathering and managing preliminary data from the field, participating in experimental design, aiding in grant writing, collaborating with undergraduate, graduate students and other faculty as appropriate and outreach. The expectation is that findings will be published in peer reviewed journals and presented at relevant conferences. Applicants with diverse research backgrounds are encouraged to apply. Candidates must have received a Ph.D. in a relevant field by the start date. Funding is available for 2 years with annual renewal dependent on performance evaluation, and will include a competitive salary, full benefits, and conference travel allowance. The University of Alabama offers a range of professional development opportunities. Application review will begin July 1st, 2018 and will continue until the position is filled. Start date is negotiable, but the successful applicant should preferably be able to start in the Fall 2018 or Spring 2019 semester. Applicants interested in the position should contact Dr. Jason Pienaar (jpien...@ua.edu) Applicants must apply by submitting an application to the Fall 2018 Biological Sciences Departmental postdoctoral pool at facultyjobs.ua.edu (requisition number 0811250): http://facultyjobs.ua.edu/postings/42653 Materials should include: 1. Cover letter stating your application for the “Comparative cryptobiosis” position, a brief description of research accomplishments and interests, and career goals. 2. The names and contact information for 3 references. 3. Curriculum vitae. 4. Two representative publications. About the University of Alabama: The University of Alabama is the flagship campus of the University System of Alabama, with an enrollment of over 35,000 students. The University is committed to achieving excellence as one of the country's primary centers of research and education. It is located in the vibrant college town of Tuscaloosa, AL, which boasts many cultural and athletic activities. The campus also benefits from the close proximity to the Birmingham metropolitan community. The University of Alabama is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer. Women and minorities are encouraged to apply.
