Postdoctoral position in Multispecies Mutualisms Job description: The Segraves and Althoff labs at Syracuse University are inviting applications for a joint postdoctoral position to conduct research on the community and evolutionary ecology of multi-species mutualisms using a synthetic mutualism lab system based on strains of brewer’s yeast. The overall goal of the project is to evaluate qualitative and quantitative theoretical predictions by using an easily replicable and fast-growing community of organisms. The project involves experimentally manipulating community structure to examine the properties of mutualistic communities that contribute to their persistence. A dynamic model of multi-species mutualism will also be constructed to capture and predict the ecology of these synthetic communities and to identify key parameters that facilitate persistence. This project will involve joint collaborations with the Segraves and Althoff labs (http://segraveslab.syr.edu and http://althofflab.syr.edu) as well as with Chris Moore at Colby College and Mark Ritchie at Syracuse University. S.U.’s Department of Biology is a collaborative group of vibrant researchers spanning a wide array of disciplines and also has close affiliations with faculty at SUNY-Environmental Science and Forestry. Preferred start date is August 1, 2017.
Qualifications: Ph.D. in evolutionary ecology, community ecology, experimental evolution, or theoretical ecology is required. Ideal candidates would have combined empirical and theoretical experience in species interactions and strong interests in linking experimental data with results from mathematical models. Proficiency in basic molecular biology skills such as pipetting, making solutions, culturing microorganisms, and sterile technique is preferred. Application: Please go to www.sujobs.com/postings/69555 to view full details and apply. Direct questions to Dr. Kari Segraves, [email protected].
