NEVBD Postdoctoral Research Positions

Postdoctoral Research Position in Mosquito Vector Biology & Genomics at the Center for Conservation Genomics, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoologic Park

The Center for Conservation Genomics (CCG), Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute (SCBI), National Zoological Park, invites applications for a postdoc in Mosquito Biology and Genomics examining how evolution of the mosquito vector affects pathogen (bird malaria) epidemiology. The successful candidate will be an exceptional scientist with a strong track record of published research involving the molecular analysis of pathogen vectors, especially those of concern for animal health and conservation.
 
The CCG’s mission is to understand and conserve biodiversity through application of genomics and genetic approaches. CCG scientists creatively apply genetic theory and methods to gain knowledge about the evolutionary and life histories of animals, to understand the importance of genetic variation to their survival, and to identify the methods needed to sustain them in human care and in the wild. In the case of invasive disease vectors, also identify methods to control them with minimum impact on the ecosystem at large.

Position Responsibilities: The selected candidate will be expected to conduct research on mosquito-pathogen evolution. The candidate should have experience in developing and applying “next generation” DNA lab analysis methods and bioinformatics. Knowledge of the biology of one or more groups of pathogen vectors is also expected. The ability to communicate effectively with a wide variety of audiences, including the public, is essential. The successful candidate will be expected to participate in activities, such as educational outreach, and to be involved with professional associations and other organizations within the scientific community.​

Qualifications: Key requirements inlcude (1) pre-employment Background Investigation must be successfully completed, and (2) must be able to travel and work independently as well as within a team environment. Candidates may qualify for this position by demonstrating the experience outlined above, by completion of three full years of progressively higher level graduate education leading to a Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree related to the position, or by a combination of experience and education.

Employment Term: Full-time, 3-year temporary appointment with full Smithsonian benefits to be filled at the IS-9 level, equivalent to Federal GS-9. The Smithsonian Institution offers a competitive salary and a comprehensive package of benefits. This is not a Federal Position, but has similar requirements and benefits. For a complete description of benefits, please visit www.sihr.si.edu.

Proof of authorization to work in US required.  The authorized salary for this position at this time is $51,384 per annum, plus benefits.  Qualified candidates who are referred to the hiring official will be asked to submit educational transcripts and proof of U.S. accreditation for foreign study.

Interested candidates should submit their curriculum vitae, a cover letter, and research statements detailing their research interests and general experience for the position by 15 December to dina.fonseca@rutgers.edu but applications will be reviewed and followed up as they arrive.

Please include the position title in the subject line of your e-mail. CVs should include your educational history (including degrees awarded), listings of publications, scientific and public presentations, grants received, and honors and awards. Also include a description of your paid and non-paid work experience that is related to this job; starting and ending dates of job (Month and year); and average number of hours worked per week.

To learn more about the Fonseca lab see https://fonseca-lab.com . For a direct link to the CCG, SCBI and NZP please visit https://nationalzoo.si.edu/center-for-conservation-genomics .

For more information, contact Dina Fonseca ( dina.fonseca@rutgers.edu ).

The Smithsonian Institution is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer.  Candidates of all backgrounds are encouraged to apply.

Postdoctoral Research Scientist Position in Molecular Medical Entomology and/or Population Biology

The Center for Vector Biology & Zoonotic Diseases at the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station invites applications for a postdoctoral scientist position in Molecular Medical Entomology and/or Population Biology. The successful candidate will conduct original investigations on the behavior and population genetics of mosquito/tick vectors of human diseases. The successful candidate will interact with an interdisciplinary team of scientists at the Center for Vector Biology & Zoonotic Diseases, as well as Northeast Regional Center for Excellence in Vector-Borne Diseases, with core strengths in medical entomology, genetics, virology, ecology, and epidemiology of vector-borne diseases. The successful candidate will have access to animal facilities, mosquito and tick colonies, and electron microscope facility within the Experiment Station, and core DNA sequencing, Center for Genome Analysis, and biotechnology facilities at nearby Yale University.
Qualifications: Must possess a PhD or equivalent degree and excellent record of productivity, experience in molecular biology and/or population genomics, including the preparation of samples for Next Generation Sequencing (GBS/RAD-seq), familiarity with the UNIX/Linux operating system, working knowledge of tools and methods for the analysis of population genomic data (STACKS, STRUCTURE, etc.), familiarity with scripting languages (Perl, Python) and statistical softwar (preferraby R).

The salary is $48,189 per year with a generous benefits package. Review of application materials will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.



 Applicants should send electronically (1) a cover letter summarizing the candidate's qualifications, (2) curriculum vitae, (3) copies of graduate transcripts, and (4) names and contact information for 3 letters of reference to:

 Goudarz Molaei ( goudarz.molaei@ct.gov ), Center for Vector Biology & Zoonotic Diseases, The Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station.