Postdoctoral Research Associate: Microbial Ecology
A postdoctoral research associate position is available in the lab of Dr.
Lisa Tiemann (http://tiemann.psm.msu.edu/) at Michigan State University to
work with the Great Lakes Bioenergy Research Center (GLBRC;
https://www.glbrc.org/). The GLBRC is one of four national bioenergy
research centers funded by the U.S. Department of Energy. There are multiple
labs involved in the GLBRC at MSU and the University of Wisconsin and
multiple opportunities for interdisciplinary collaborations. In particular,
this position will work in close collaboration with the MSU Insects and
Landscape Ecology lab of Dr. Doug Landis
(http://www.landislab.ent.msu.edu/). The research will focus on the
diversity and chemical complexity of root residues and exudates that affect
soil microbial community structure, diversity, and function, which in turn
influence rates of C accrual via microbial growth and the production and
turnover of decomposition by-products. We seek to understand key parts of
microbial C cycling as influenced by plant and invertebrate diversity, which
will change the timing and diversity of root exudates as well as residues.
By processing plant material, invertebrates alter the quality, quantity, and
timing of both plant detrital and root exudate inputs to soil microbial
communities, with significant implications for C cycling.
The position will include some combination of the following activities:
Assisting with field work in research sites across Michigan and Wisconsin;
conducting and/or coordinating biogeochemical analyses, including 13CO2
stable isotope pulse-chase experiments and stable isotope probing; molecular
work including DNA and RNA extraction and sample preparation for sequencing;
data analysis and manuscript preparation; presentation of results at
national and international scientific meetings. In addition, the research
associate will assist with lab organization and mentoring graduate and
undergraduate students, and engage in a stimulating research environment
created by multiple researchers working on coordinated aspects of the
project. The successful candidate must have a Ph.D. with a research focus in
soil ecology, soil microbiology, soil science, biogeochemistry, or a closely
related field with preference given to those with experience in molecular
methods. Strong candidates will also possess the following attributes: A
strong publication record from their Ph.D. (papers published, in press, or
submitted); creativity, independence, and the desire to learn new things;
excellent communication skills, both written and oral.
The position is renewable annually, contingent upon funding and/or job
performance. A start date of January 1, 2018 is preferred, but alternative
timelines will be considered and should be noted in the cover letter. All
questions about the position and application materials should be submitted
to: Lisa Tiemann at [email protected].
Applications should consist of a single pdf file that includes:
1) a brief cover letter (no more than 2-pages) that highlights past research
accomplishments, how your previous experience will benefit this project and
your future research goals;
2) a curriculum vitae;
3) names and contact information for three references.
MSU is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer.
