Postdoctoral Research Associate Position

Biodiversity and alkenone production of coastal phytoplankton
The Rynearson lab, at the University of Rhode Island's Graduate School of Oceanography invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate position. The research project combines genetic, flow cytometric and physiological approaches to investigate biodiversity and alkenone production in haptophyte algae.

Responsibilities and Duties: The postdoctoral associate will be responsible for conducting laboratory and field research on grant-funded work to examine the biodiversity of coastal haptophytes and linkages to alkenone production, and for disseminating results in publications and presentations. The individual will be required to contribute to the functioning of the lab, assist with graduate and undergraduate student mentoring and develop future research projects. The successful individual will have the opportunity to work with single cell flow sorting and single cell genomics as well as conduct fieldwork consisting of coordinated sampling with coastal long-term time series programs.

Qualifications: Candidates are required to have a Ph.D. degree by August 2012 in Oceanography, Biology or a related field. Excellent command of the English language (written and verbal) and quantitative analytical skills are required. Candidates should possess demonstrable experience in the field of ecology or evolution as well as some of the following: conceiving, designing and conducting empirical research; ability to work with and analyze genetic markers; familiarity with flow cytometric techniques; familiarity culturing phytoplankton; quantitative and statistical analyses.

Appointment: The position is for 12-months, commencing July 2012 or before. The successful candidate will receive training in research collaboration, presentation and publication of results, and outreach and mentoring. There will be opportunities for development of research proposals.

To Apply: Applications must include (1) a maximum 3-page statement of career goals, research vision and interests; (2) curriculum vitae, (3) reprints of relevant publications and (4) names and addresses of three referees willing to write confidential letters of recommendation. All materials should be emailed as a single pdf document to: rynearson at gso.uri.edu with `PostDoc Application' in the subject line. Candidates will be selected based on overall excellence, including academic qualifications, letters of recommendation, and prior skills, experience, and research goals that are compatible with the goals of the funded research. The position is compensated through a competitive salary and excellent benefits package.
Closing date: For full consideration, applications must be received by May 13, 2012 or until the position is filled. Further information:
- Rynearson lab: http://www.gso.uri.edu/users/rynearson
- URI Graduate School of Oceanography: http://www.gso.uri.edu/