Research Assistant in Microbial Ecology, Center for Ecology and Evolutionary Biology
The Center for Ecology and Evolutionary Biology at the University of Oregon currently has an opening for a full time Research Assistant to work on a project in the area of microbial ecology. The NSF-funded project is focused on exploring the global biogeography of microorganisms (see project summary below). The successful candidate will gain experience working with an interdisciplinary team developing new approaches to understanding microbial diversity approaches that draw upon molecular microbial ecology, ecological and molecular data analysis, and theoretical ecology. The position is available immediately for one year, with the possibility of extension dependent on funding and satisfactory performance. The University of Oregon is located in Eugene, Oregon, recently rated among the top 25 Best Places to Live (www.eugene-or.gov). Extensive experience using molecular techniques is required, including some combination of skills in DNA/RNA extraction, PCR, cloning and subcloning, electrophoresis, DNA sequencing, and phylogenetic analysis. Ability to work in a team atmosphere is a must. A Master's degree in biology is desirable, but individuals with a B.S. in biology or related field and extensive experience are also encouraged to apply. The successful candidate will be responsible for conducting laboratory research under the direction of Principle Investigators Jessica Green (http://biology.uoregon.edu/people/Green) and Brendan Bohannan (http://biology.uoregon.edu/people/BOHANNAN/Bohannan.php). Salary will be commensurate with education and experience. We invite applications from qualified candidates who share our commitment to diversity. Please send a current CV with names and contact information of three references to: CEEB Posting: 7300, 5289 University of Oregon, Eugene, OR 97403-5289. ([EMAIL PROTECTED]) To assure full consideration, applications must be received by 10/24/07, but position will remain open until filled. Project summary: Microorganisms comprise much of Earths biodiversity and play critical roles in biogeochemical cycling and ecosystem functioning, yet little is known about their spatial distribution. We are using beta-diversity analyses as a theoretical tool to answer questions about the relative importance of dispersal history and environmental heterogeneity in controlling the spatial scaling of microbial diversity. We are determining microbial beta-diversity patterns by generating a spatially-explicit set of microbial diversity data, sampled on a global scale. These data are have been generated by surveying soils in the Mediterranean-climate regions of California, Chile, South Africa, and Australia, using molecular methods for microbial community characterization. A variety of statistical tools are being applied to this data set in order to determine the relative importance of the different processes generating and maintaining microbial beta-diversity, and how these processes vary with region, spatial scale and taxonomic resolution. University of Oregon is an equal-opportunity, affirmative-action institution committed to cultural diversity and compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act.
