A two-year post-doctoral position is available (start date as early
as July, 2016) in the group of Dr. Van Savage
(<http://faculty.biomath.ucla.edu/vsavage/>http://faculty.biomath.ucla.edu/vsavage/)
in the Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology and Department
of Biomathematics at UCLA. This position will be connected to an NSF
CAREER grant
(<http://nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=1254159>http://nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=1254159).
Savage combines mathematical models with analysis of large datasets
to uncover insights into biological systems. The project has the
potential to involve software development, analysis of large
datasets, and construction of analytical and numerical models for the
vascular system. Results from this project will help lead to a deeper
understanding of resource distribution networks and allometric
scaling theory, which connects to physiology and ecology. Findings
will also aid in identifying differences in structure and function
between plants and animals, different organs, and healthy versus
diseased (e.g., tumor) tissue. The postdoctoral researcher will have
the opportunity to work closely with and mentor high school,
undergraduate, and graduate students. Savage will mentor the postdoc
in designing and conducting research projects, writing papers, giving
talks, and applying for jobs.
UCLA is a major research university with the Faculty of Arts and
Sciences, Medical School, and Engineering School all on the same
campus, allowing access to myriad researchers and resources that
could be useful to this project. UCLA is consistently in the top 5 in
terms of federal research funding awarded to universities. Los
Angeles is a vibrant, diverse city with outdoor activities available
nearby, including beaches and mountains. L.A. also has a wide array
of arts and culture, including world-class museums, theater, music,
and of course, movies.
Candidates are expected to be independent, highly motivated problem
solvers who communicate well and enjoy working in a collaborative
environment. The ideal candidate would have a background in
mathematical modeling, knowledge of vascular systems in animals and
plants, and experience with C++, Matlab, R, and/or OCaml programming
languages. Applicants with only a subset of these skills are
encouraged to apply. Applications and any questions should be sent to
<mailto:[email protected]>[email protected]. The application should
include a Curriculum Vitae that details education, past research, and
publications. Applicants should also submit a cover letter that
describes their interest in the project and should list two
references who can be contacted for references. Review of
applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.
UCLA is an AA/EOE that is strongly committed to diversity and
excellence among its researchers.
Van Savage
Associate Professor
Dept. of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology
Dept. of Biomathematics
UCLA
Van Savage <[email protected]>