Postdoctoral Position at the University of Idaho:
Evolution of drug resistance plasmid persistence in biofilms
JOB DESCRIPTION
We are seeking a postdoctoral scientist to join an interdisciplinary team of investigators to conduct research on the evolution of antibiotic resistance plasmid persistence in biofilms. The goal of this project is to gain insight into the evolutionary mechanisms by which multi-drug resistance plasmids can improve their persistence in biofilms formed by various Gram-negative bacteria. The successful candidate will: (i) characterize, compare and interpret evolutionary changes that occur during stabilization of plasmid-host pairs in biofilms and well-mixed liquid cultures by comparative genomics studies and the resources available through the Institute for Bioinformatics and Evolutionary Studies (IBEST) Genomic Resources Core and Computational Resources Core, (ii) oversee the research done by a laboratory technician, and (iii) assume primary responsibility for preparing and publishing scientific papers for peer-reviewed journals,
and for presenting findings at scientific conferences.
The successful candidate will work under the supervision of Dr. Eva Top (Professor of Biological Sciences, evatop@uidaho.edu) and in collaboration with Drs. Larry Forney, Zaid Abdo and Matt Settles. The position offers the opportunity to carry out research in a dynamic research environment with excellent resources.
The successful applicant will be a member of the Department of Biological Sciences as well as IBEST (see http://www.uidaho.edu/research/ibest). The project will be funded by a two-year grant from the Department of the Army and the position should be filled as soon as possible.
JOB REQUIREMENTS
The candidate should have: a Ph.D. degree and research experience in a biological science, a fundamental understanding of molecular evolution, and oral and written communication skills as demonstrated by publications as first author in English language peer-reviewed journals and oral presentations at national or international meetings. The candidate should be able to work independently and within a group. Preference will be given to candidates who also have the following qualifications: research experience in the field of microbiology, experience with basic molecular biology techniques and with statistical analysis of biological data, ability to use bioinformatics tools and software, knowledge of high throughput methods used for DNA sequencing, general knowledge of plasmid biology, and familiarity with evolutionary theory and with experimental evolution studies.
Depending on background and experience, the successful candidate will receive a salary in the range $37-$42K (U.S.) per calendar year, health and dental insurance, and funds for travel to scientific meetings and conferences. The position is for two years assuming satisfactory progress, with the possibility of extension depending on the availability of funds. Qualified candidates must apply via the Human Resources website
(https://www.sites.uidaho.edu/AppTrack/Agency/Applicant/CurrentOpenings.asp?category=1) of the University of Idaho (position will be advertised any day, please keep checking). Applications should include a cover letter, curriculum vitae, and the names of three persons who can serve as references.
For more information, candidates can write to Dr. Eva M. Top, University of Idaho (evatop@uidaho.edu). The University of Idaho is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.
