Position Announcements
Post-Doctoral Position Microbial Biogeochemistry
Microbial Biogeochemistry: Sulfur and Nitrogen Cycling in
Vegetated Saltmarsh Sediments
We invite applications for a 3-year postdoctoral position in
the area of microbial biogeochemistry, focusing on elucidating
the linkages among the sulfur-, nitrogen, and carbon cycles in
vegetated salt marsh sediments at Plum Island Estuary (PIE-
LTER). This multidisciplinary NSF-funded project integrates
biogeochemical process measures with molecular analyses
and it represents a collaborative effort between scientists at
Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (Stefan Sievert) and the
Ecosystems Center at the Marine Biological Laboratory (Zoe
Cardon, Anne Giblin). These two institutions are both in
Woods Hole, MA, less than 2 miles from one another. The
focus of the postdoctoral research will be on the molecular
aspects of this project, including bacterial diversity analyses
based on 16S rRNA and functional genes, qPCR, and stable
isotope probing experiments. We are looking for a person who
is interested in working in an interdisciplinary setting and
willing to acquire new skills outside their main area of
expertise. Applicants should have extensive experience with
molecular techniques for the characterization of microbial
communities, in particular in the use of ‘omic’ approaches
and the associated bioinformatic analyses. Having experience
in the application of stable isotope probing would be a plus.
Woods Hole with its major research facilities provides a great
environment for a postdoc to develop as a scientist at the
transition between guided research and becoming an
independent investigator. WHOI is well known for its
postdoctoral program and always has a high percentage of
resident postdocs in its scientific workforce, providing a
stimulating research environment and also guaranteeing
interactions with peers with different scientific backgrounds.
Candidates should initiate the process by applying online and
by submitting one PDF document containing resume,
statement of research interests, publication list, and names
and contact information for three references; please visit
http://jobs.whoi.edu (job reference 11-07-07). A PhD in
biology, microbiology, or a related field is required at the time
of appointment. The position will be situated at WHOI. It is
available immediately and will remain open until filled.