Research Associate in Biology
About The Position
The Department of Biology at the University of Virginia is seeking a post-doctoral Research Associate for Professor Amanda Gibson's NSF-funded lab. The research focuses on the evolution of parasite defense strategies, specifically investigating how host dispersal evolves as an escape mechanism from parasites and its impact on the evolution of host resistance. The project utilizes the model organism C. elegans and its natural parasites, employing methods such as evolve-and-resequencing, quantitative trait mapping, and field sampling with spatial analyses. The selected candidate will also mentor undergraduate students in independent research projects through a summer program for incoming transfer students.
Requirements
- PhD in Biology or a related field by the start date.
Nice To Haves
- Demonstrated conceptual and technical strengths in host-parasite interactions, evolutionary ecology, evolutionary genetics, and/or dispersal biology.
- Experience in basic lab and molecular work.
- A strong background in experimental design, data analysis, and data management.
- Excellent written and oral communication, demonstrated by a strong publication record, consistent with the candidate’s career stage, and presentations at conferences.
- Demonstrated ambition, creativity, independence, and ability to work well with others.
- Experience in and dedication to mentoring junior trainees.
Responsibilities
- Conduct research on the evolution of avoidance versus resistance as modes of parasite defense.
- Test the idea that host dispersal evolves as an escape in space from parasites.
- Evaluate the downstream consequences of dispersal for the evolution of host resistance.
- Utilize experimental tools and resources for the model nematode C. elegans and its natural parasites.
- Engage in evolve-and-resequencing, quantitative trait mapping, and field sampling with spatial analyses.
- Mentor undergraduate students in independent research projects through a summer program for incoming transfer students.
Benefits
- Information on benefits available to postdoctoral associates at UVA can be found at postdoc.virginia.edu and hr.virginia.edu/benefits.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
Ph.D. or professional degree
