[IUFRO RG 7.03 FORENT] Postdoctoral Researcher Opportunity - Mountain pine beetle Genomics

Postdoctoral Researcher: Mountain Pine Beetle Transcriptomics The mountain pine beetle (Dendroctonus ponderosae; MPB) is an emerging model system for studying the effects of climate change. Research in this system is occurring at the interface between applied ecology, evolutionary genomics, and climate-change modeling. Utah State University has long been a center for MPB-related field research, climate-based modeling efforts, and quantitative genetic experiments. Utah State University has recently developed collaboration with the University of Notre Dame to assess transcriptional variance related to important temperature-dependent fitness traits of MPB using next-generation sequencing technology (Roche/454). These fitness traits vary with latitude and temperature, and are critical components of MPB population outbreak dynamics. We are seeking a creative and highly motivated postdoctoral researcher with an interest in the interface between Applied Ecology and Genomics to fill a unique position with involvement at two campuses: Utah State University (USU) and the University of Notre Dame (ND). The researcher will be based at USU (where tissues will be prepared), but will also spend time at ND (where transcriptome sequencing will be performed). The specific allocation of time and effort among campuses will be decided jointly by the researcher and faculty at both campuses. Specific responsibilities will include: 1) organizing and preparing tissues for analysis in collaboration with USU faculty and the USDA Rocky Mountain Research Station, 3) data processing and synthesis, and 4) publication of results. Candidates for this position must have earned a PhD in molecular biology, evolutionary genetics, entomology (with a molecular or evolutionary biology focus), or related field by the time of appointment. Candidates must demonstrate organizational skills, independence, and communication skills (written and verbal). Preference will be given to candidates with experience in RNA extraction and the analysis of transcriptome data, and ecological application of these data. The position is funded for up to two years. The candidate will be encouraged to work collaboratively through USU and/or ND on grant proposals extending the position. The successful applicant will benefit from interactions with USU researchers in the Ecology Center (http://www.usu.edu/ecology), the USDA Rocky Mountain Research Station, the Center for Integrated BioSystems ( http://biosystems.usu.edu), and in the newly established Genomics and Bioinformatics Core Facilities in the Eck Institute of Global Health at ND (http://globalhealth.nd.edu). Inquires should be directed to Karen Mock (karen.mock(a)usu.edu), Barbara Bentz (bbentz(a)fs.fed.us) or Michael Pfrender at ND ( Michael.Pfrender.1(a)ND.edu). Applicants will be asked to submit a cover letter detailing their interest and qualifications for this position, contact information for three references, and up to 2 representative publications. Salary will range up to $45,000 year, plus benefits, depending upon experience and qualifications. Utah State University is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer, and seeks to attract and retain a highly qualified and diverse faculty and staff. Barbara J. Bentz Research Entomologist USDA Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station 860 N. 1200 E. Logan, UT 84321 435-755-3577 (office) 435-890-3186 (mobile) 435-755-3563 (fax) bbentz(a)fs.fed.us www.usu.edu/beetle/