Friday, January 12, 2018

Postdoctoral position in functional genetics of animal-microbe symbioses

(Note: Position is no longer available; applicants with independent funding are welcome)

A postdoctoral position is available in the Bordenstein laboratory (bordensteinlab.vanderbilt.edu) to functionally characterize endosymbiont-host interactions in Drosophila. This project will dissect the number and types of Drosophila genes and functional pathways that are manipulated by bacteria in the genus Wolbachia. The candidate will develop methods and apply multiple technologies to dissect how the bacteria modify fly embryonic development and induce lethality at the molecular, genetic, and/or biochemical levels. As Wolbachia are increasingly relevant to vector control efforts to curb arbovirus transmission, translational aspects of this work include development of transgenic strategies for vector and pest control.

Applicants soon to acquire their Ph.D. or with previous postgraduate experience are welcome. Applicants should have a demonstrated ability to work both independently and collaboratively, possess excellent oral and written communication skills, and have a record of productivity as evidenced by publication history. Successful candidates will have some of the following skills: proteomics, transcriptomics, functional genetics, computational biology, Drosophila and Wolbachia rearing, fluorescent microscopy, molecular evolution, and molecular biology of phages. 

Vanderbilt University campus is a National Arboretum located in the heart of Nashville, the capital of Tennessee. Known internationally as Music City USA, Nashville is also the home to professional sports teams, the Nashville Symphony, the Frist Center for the Visual Arts, and numerous activities for outdoor enthusiasts. Nashville, Tennessee is a wonderful place to live, work, and raise a family and has been named one of the 15 best U.S. cities for work and family and one of the 25 cities most likely to have the country's highest job growth over the coming five years. Major industries include tourism, printing and publishing, technology manufacturing, music production, higher education, finance, insurance, automobile production and health care management.

To apply, please send a single pdf including a cover letter stating career interests, research strengths, areas to develop, earliest start date, curriculum vitae, an example publication, and contact information for three or more references to s.bordenstein@vanderbilt.edu. 

The position is available now and renewable up to two 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.