The Section of Ecology, Behavior and Evolution at the University of California- San Diego invites applications for a position for a post-doctoral scholar to study the ecology of algal biofuel production. The successful candidate will participate in research on the effects of algal species traits, diversity in polyculture, zooplankton grazing and nutrient stoichiometry on biochemical composition of algal cells. The position is part of the San Diego Center for Algae Biotechnology (www.algae.ucsd.edu), an interdisciplinary consortium of researchers working on all aspects of the development and commercialization of algae biofuels. The present position will integrate lab culturing experiments to quantify species traits and environmental tolerances with field mesocosms to measure performance under outdoor conditions. Expected products include: (1) a database of stoichiometric, biochemical and life history traits for a wide range of eukaryotic and cyanobacterial strains; (2) a number of refereed publications describing experiments on the effects of algal diversity on lipid yield and losses to grazers
Applicants must hold a doctoral degree preferably in Aquatic or Microbial Ecology, Limnology or Oceanography. Experience with maintaining lab cultures of micro-organisms and measuring cell elemental and biochemical composition will be essential. The position will be available on or around January 1, 2010 and will be initially set for one year with the chance of continuing for up to three years. Salary will be Commensurate with experience per the Division of Biological Sciences postdoctoral salary scale. Applicants should send a CV, cover letter and contact information for three referees to Jonathan Shurin. Review of applications will begin on December 1, 2010 and continue until the position is filled.
