Assistant Professor-Microbiome and Symbiosis

University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science•Baltimore, MD

1d•$90,000 - $120,000•Onsite

About The Position

The University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science (UMCES) invites applications for a tenure track Assistant Professorship in Microbiome and Symbiosis Studies at the Institute of Marine and Environmental Technology (IMET). This is a full time 100% FTE position with 75% guaranteed state funding support for salary, with the remaining 25% of salary to be externally funded. The importance of symbiosis and the role of microbiomes in the function and health of organisms and ecosystems has become increasingly clear over the past decade. We are seeking an Assistant Professor with a research focus on microbial or symbiotic interactions using the tools of omics, biochemistry, cell biology and mathematical modelling. Promising research areas that would benefit existing IMET research directions while expanding capabilities include: The role of microbiomes and symbionts in marine invertebrate and vertebrate health and disease, with a particular focus on aquaculture systems, model species, and/or species/systems of economic importance. The role of microbes and symbionts in the production of toxins and bioactive compounds, particularly those that influence host immune function and/or have pharmaceutical potential. The role that symbionts, dinoflagellates, microalgae, and macroalgae play in harmful algal blooms, photosynthesis, nutrient production, and carbon sequestration.

Requirements

Ph.D. in Microbial biology, genetics, ecology, marine science, or a closely related field
Demonstrated research excellence and a strong publication record appropriate to rank
Potential for, or demonstrated record of, securing competitive external funding
Potential for, or demonstrated record of, high-quality graduate education and student mentoring, including broadening participation
The selected candidate will be required to review and accept the UMCES Principles of Conduct.

Nice To Haves

Interest in conducting a research program that includes questions of local-regional concerns, collaborations with IMET researchers and faculty from across the USM system, and that makes effective use of UMCES’ and IMET’s research infrastructure, including the Aquatic Research Center, BioAnalytical Lab, computational resources, and/or other laboratory and field facilities
Interest or experience in applied and translational research and / collaboration with management agencies, industry, and/or community groups

Responsibilities

Develop and sustain an externally funded research program in aquatic microbiome studies, aquatic symbiosis, and/or microbial ecology
Publish in leading peer-reviewed journals and contribute to scientific leadership in the field
Teach graduate level classes, mentor graduate students and postdoctoral researchers through UMCES’ graduate programs, and broaden participation in applied marine science
Engage in interdisciplinary collaboration within UMCES and across the University System of Maryland
Contribute scientific expertise to state, regional, and national agencies engaged in activities related to human, organism, and / or ecosystem health.