Integrating chemical data and biological indicators to understand the role of emerging contaminants in agriculturally dominated watersheds
We seek a postdoctoral researcher to be part of an interdisciplinary project that is evaluating endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) in river ecosystems and their effects on fish populations. This research is in support of the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) National Strategic Research Plan for Evaluation of Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals and their Effects on Fish and Wildlife. The overall goals of this project are to (1) determine sources of EDCs, evaluate the environmental movement of these chemicals, and quantify potential exposure of wildlife and humans, (2) better understand the biological effects of EDCs on fish and how these are affected by dose, duration, route, or life stage of exposure, as well as the antagonistic or synergetic effects of exposures to mixtures of EDCs, and (3) understand the biological pathways and molecular mechanisms through which EDCs exert adverse effects on fish at the individual level. This position will focus on integrating data collected over several years and from multiple river locations to better understand the effects of EDCs on smallmouth bass populations. Specifically, the position will require the integration of chemical data from river sediment, water, and fish tissues, along with multiple biological end-points, ranging from individual to molecular-based end- points. The successful candidate will be part of an interdisciplinary group that includes ecologists, chemists, hydrologists and fish health researchers. This full-time position is located at The Pennsylvania State University, State College, PA. This is a one-year appointment, with a second year of support available pending performance and funding availability. Salary: $60,000/year plus excellent benefits. Closing date: Open until filled. Qualifications: Competitive candidates should be highly motivated and possess a PhD in toxicology, ecology, environmental health, fish health or a related discipline with a strong quantitative emphasis. The ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team environment is essential. Experience with transcriptome and gene expression analysis is preferred, but not required. Please provide (1) a cover letter detailing how your qualifications and experience have prepared you for this position; (2) a CV; (3) names and contact information of three professional references; and (4) one relevant publication. Please submit these materials to Dr. Tyler Wagner via email ([email protected]) as a single merged pdf. For more information, contact Dr. Tyler Wagner at [email protected]; 814- 865-6592.
