Postdoctoral Associate- Microbiology UNIVERSITY JOB TITLE: Postdoctoral Associate (full-time; 100% FTE) One year appointment with possible extension depending on successful performance and funding. STARTING DATE: ASAP LOCATION: Cornell University, Department of Microbiology Wing Hall Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853 SUMMARY: Located within the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, this full-time, 100% FTE, academic position will work in the research laboratory of Dr. Esther Angert in the Department of Microbiology, Cornell University. This National Science Foundation-funded postdoctoral research associate position is currently available for a highly motivated individual with expertise in bioinformatics as it relates to microbial ecology and biogeochemical processes. The successful candidate will leverage data and assemblies generated from a microbial community sequencing project and integrate these metagenomic data with information collected from a petroleum hydrocarbon-contaminated aquifer that has been studied for more than 25 years. Goals of the project include (i) heuristic discovery of field-site-specific interactions between microbial populations and geochemistry and (ii) defining the limits, frontiers, and pragmatic relationships between real-world geochemical data and new omics-based procedures to characterize microbial communities whose metabolism determines geochemical processes. Opportunities for collaborative projects whose approaches and goals align with omics-augmented biogeochemistry are also possible. BASIC FUNCTION AND RESPONSIBILITY: The Department of Microbiology in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at Cornell University has ten active research laboratories. It serves as the home Department for the Graduate Field of Microbiology (with >40 affiliated faculty members) and provides a center of expertise for numerous aspects of microbial biology. The faculty and staff offer advanced courses for both undergraduate and graduate level students. Research within the Department is focused on Prokaryotic Biology and Environmental Microbiology and includes specific expertise in molecular genetics, gene regulation, genomics, microbial cell biology, bioremediation, symbionts, pathogens, and ecosystems. The Postdoctoral Associate will contribute to active projects involving the analysis of metagenomic, proteomic and biogeochemical data derived from a contaminated aquifer in NY State. The Postdoctoral Associate will be responsible for archiving assemblies, as well as submission of data to publically available databases. Experience with common bioinformatics methods, tools, websites and data resources is required, in particular high-throughput data analysis tools and techniques including assembly, statistical analysis, metagenomic analysis and genome analysis. This is a full-time, 100% FTE appointment dependent on funding availability, performance and continued alignment of the candidate with the goals of the Department of Microbiology. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: RESEARCH IN MICROBIAL PHYSIOLOGY AND RESPONSES TO CHANGES IN THE ENVIRONMENT (85%) - Conduct independent or collaborative research on the analysis of metagenomic data from a community genome sequencing project. Approaches may include assembly, statistical analysis, metagenomic analysis, genome analysis, integration of genomic data with proteomic data and genome assemblies to develop and test hypotheses about microbial physiology driving processes in the environment.
PUBLICATIONS AND PRESENTATIONS: (15%) - Write or contribute to the writing of technical reports, manuscripts or other deliverables for grants and contracts.
QUALIFICATIONS: - Ph.D. in Microbiology, Computational Biology, Bioinformatics, Microbial Genomics, or a related field.
- Demonstrated experience and a publication record in microbial ecology, computational biology or bioinformatics approaches to characterizing bacterial communities/populations.
- Strong analytical and communication skills are essential as are experience with common bioinformatics methods, tools, websites and data resources.
SALARY: commensurate with experience SUPERVISION: Supervised by Dr. Esther Angert, Professor, in the Department of Microbiology TO APPLY: Submit CV, Cover Letter and three references via email to : Lillian Henry leh12@cornell.edu Supervision Exercised: Postdoctoral Associate may assist in advising beginning graduate students and undergraduate students. Diversity and inclusion are a part of Cornell University's heritage. We are an employer and educator recognized for valuing AA/EEO, Protected Veterans, and individuals with Disabilities. Employment Assistance: If you require an accommodation for a disability in order to complete an employment application or to participate in the recruiting process, you are encouraged to contact Cornell University's Office of Workforce Policy and Labor Relations at voice (607) 254-7232, fax (607) 255-0298, or email at equalopportunity@cornell.edu. Applicants that do not have internet access are encouraged to visit your local library, or local Department of Labor. You may also visit the office of Workforce Recruitment and Retention Monday - Friday between the hours of 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. to use a dedicated workstation to complete an online application. Notice to Applicants: Please read the required Notice to Applicants statement by clicking here. This notice contains important information about applying for a position at Cornell as well as some of your rights and responsibilities as an applicant. EEO Statement: Diversity and Inclusion are a part of Cornell University's heritage. We are a recognized employer and educator valuing AA/EEO, Protected Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities. Cornell University is an innovative Ivy League university and a great place to work. Our inclusive community of scholars, students, and staff impart an uncommon sense of larger purpose, and contribute creative ideas to further the university's mission of teaching, discovery, and engagement. |
