University of Connecticut Hiring for Postdoctoral Research Associate, Marine Sciences at Avery Point Campus Full Time

Search #: 498013
Work type: Full-time
Location: Avery Point Campus
Categories: Postdoctoral Research Associates

JOB SUMMARY

We seek a highly motivated Postdoctoral Researcher to participate in and enhance ongoing research focused on the microbiome of benthic marine invertebrates. The successful candidate will lead research on the functional significance and mechanistic role of the microbiome on cellular and physiological processes of the host.

UConn is an R1 institution and among the top 25 public universities in the nation. The Department of Marine Sciences (www.marinesciences.uconn.edu) has 18 tenure-track faculty members, 8 research faculty, numerous affiliated faculty and scientists, and an average enrollment of 45 graduate students and 90 undergraduate students. The new hire will join the Marine Environmental Physiology Laboratory (https://ward.lab.uconn.edu/), interact with technical personnel, and mentor graduate and undergraduate students.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The Postdoctoral Researcher will use next generation sequencing (NGS) techniques to investigate the mechanistic interactions between benthic marine invertebrates and their symbiotic microbes. Responsibilities include developing experimental frameworks involving animals and microbes, isolation and extraction of nucleic acids, and bioinformatic analyses of NGS data. Familiarity with the workflows for marker gene analyses (e.g., 16S/18S amplicons) and shotgun metagenomics (e.g., gene predictions, functional annotations, genome assembly, phylogenomics) is highly desirable. Experience with metatranscriptomics (e.g., RNA extraction, differential expression) would also be of interest. The individual will participate as both lead author and co-author in the preparation of project reports, scientific manuscripts for publication, preparation of proposals, and presentations of research results at international conferences. Depending on their interests, opportunities to collaborate on other research projects involving benthic invertebrate symbiosis such as interactions with microplastics and nanomaterials are possible. The work will be carried out predominantly in laboratories at the University of Connecticut, Department of Marine Sciences, Avery Point, CT. Some fieldwork such as the collection of animals will also be required.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Ph.D. in biological sciences or related field.
• Research skills and experience appropriate to the advertised position.
• Evidence of research and publication records commensurate with experience.
• Evidence of effective writing and communication skills.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Previous post-doctoral experience.
• Experience with molecular biology techniques.
• Proficiency in molecular biology bioinformatic coding (e.g., R, Python, etc.).
• Knowledge and experience with benthic invertebrates and their care and maintenance.
• Commitment to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion.
• Evidence of mentoring graduate and undergraduate students.

APPOINTMENT TERMS

The position is supported by a UConn research grant and while the initial appointment is for one year, there is the possibility of annual renewal for an additional two years. Salary and benefits are competitive. The University offers a competitive salary, outstanding benefits, and a highly desirable work environment. For additional information regarding benefits visit: https://hr.uconn.edu/benefits-beyond-pay/.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT

Employment of the successful candidate is contingent upon the successful completion of a pre-employment criminal background check.

TO APPLY

Please apply online at https://hr.uconn.edu/jobs, Staff Positions, Search #498013 to upload a resume, cover letter, and contact information for three (3) professional references. Applicants should add the email address [email protected] as a safe sender. Review of applications will begin December 15, 2023.

This job posting is scheduled to be removed at 11:55 p.m. Eastern time on January 31, 2024.

All employees are subject to adherence to the State Code of Ethics which may be found at http://www.ct.gov/ethics/site/default.asp.

All members of the University of Connecticut are expected to exhibit appreciation of, and contribute to, an inclusive, respectful, and diverse environment for the University community.

The University of Connecticut aspires to create a community built on collaboration and belonging and has actively sought to create an inclusive culture within the workforce. The success of the University is dependent on the willingness of our diverse employee and student populations to share their rich perspectives and backgrounds in a respectful manner. This makes it essential for each member of our community to feel secure and welcomed and to thoroughly understand and believe that their ideas are respected by all. We strongly respect each individual employee’s unique experiences and perspectives and encourage all members of the community to do the same. All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.

The University of Connecticut is an AA/EEO Employer.

Advertised: Nov 10 2023 Eastern Standard Time
Applications close: Jan 31 2024 Eastern Standard Time