[ECOLOG-L] Graduate opportunities in infectious disease ecology and evolution - Purdue University
Faculty within the department of Biological Sciences at Purdue University are accepting graduate student for fall 2019 with interests in disease ecology and evolution. Information on the application process can be found at: https://www.bio.purdue.edu/Academic/graduate/prospective.html Interested applicants should contact the relevant faculty before applying: Catherine Searle (Ph.D. students only): https://www.bio.purdue.edu/lab/searle/ Community ecology of infectious diseases in freshwater systems. Research in the Searle lab investigates the effects of species composition on disease dynamics. In natural systems communities can lose species (e.g. from habitat loss, pollution, etc.), gain species (e.g. from species invasions), or experience changes to population sizes and intraspecific diversity. These factors can influence the frequency and severity of disease outbreaks. To understand these processes, we combine field observations with experimental manipulations in the field, mesocosms and laboratory. Our primary hosts systems are freshwater zooplankton (Daphnia) and amphibians (with a focus on chytridiomycosis). Through these studies, we aim to understand how changes to biodiversity are altering disease dynamics. Interested students should email sear...@purdue.edu with a short statement of research interests, a summary of previous research experience, and a CV. Giovanna Carpi (Ph.D. students only): https://www.giovannacarpi.org/ The Carpi Lab investigates the transmission dynamics of vector-borne diseases, with a special focus on malaria. To gain insight into malaria transmission dynamics, our research is currently centered around three themes: 1) monitor malaria parasite spatial spread and how malaria transmission changes as interventions are applied, 2) quantify ecological and evolutionary dynamics of malaria parasites within-host (mosquito and human); 3) determine the influence of mosquito microbiome on mosquito susceptibility to infection and subsequent disease transmission outcome. We employ integrative approaches including field observations, laboratory experiments, next generation sequencing (NGS) and computational biology. Our work involves national and international collaborations with public health and research partners (Johns Hopkins University, Microsoft Research, Oxford Big Data Institute, Macha Research Institute). Prospective students should send an email to gca...@purdue.edu with the subject “Prospective Graduate Student”. Include in the text a short statement of research interests and as attachments a CV, an unofficial transcript, and a list of references. QUALIFICATIONS: Interested applicants should have a strong quantitative background and experience with molecular biology, genetics and/or computational biology is preferred. Ximena Bernal (Ph.D. students only): https://www.bio.purdue.edu/lab/bernal/ We study the ecology and evolution of animal communication focusing on the advertisement calls of anurans. Production of mating signals usually involves attraction of non-target receivers (aka eavesdroppers) that exploit this communication systems. Predators that eavesdrop on mating signals to find their prey or host are common but we know surprisingly little about the evolutionary ecology of this strategy and even less about their consequences on disease dynamics. In our lab we use a variety of methods and approaches to investigate the behavior and evolutionary ecology of interspecific eavesdroppers of mating signals and we are looking at understanding disease dynamics and co-evolution of disease transmitted by eavesdropping vectors. Applicants should be independent and highly motivated. Some previous research and/or field experience is necessary. Students are encouraged to develop their own research projects depending upon their specific interests. I particularly encourage students in disease transmission by frog-biting midges. Our work takes place in the lab at Purdue University and in the field in Indiana as well as at the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute in Panama. If you are interested in joining the lab, send an email to xber...@purdue.edu. Please also include a statement of your research interests and accomplishments. I will contact you to talk about your experience and career goals so we can determine if working together would be a good match. Dennis Minchella (M.S. students only): https://dennisminchella.wordpress.com/ Evolutionary Ecology of Host-Parasite Interactions Our lab is interested in exploring and characterizing complex interactions between parasites and their hosts. Drawing upon both molecular and experimental field approaches, research in our laboratory focuses on the population biology, evolution, and genetics of host- parasite interactions. The research program encompasses 1) host- parasite coevolution, 2) parasite competition and the evolution of virulence, 3) genetic
[ECOLOG-L] Research technician in aquatic disease ecology
A full-time lab technician position is available in the Searle lab at Purdue University (https://www.bio.purdue.edu/lab/searle/). The focus of the lab is the ecology of infectious diseases in freshwater systems. The job will involve assisting with and leading laboratory experiments, maintaining lab cultures, field sampling, ordering supplies, and supervising undergraduate research students. The minimum requirements are a 4 year college degree and prior research experience in ecology, biology, or equivalent field. The successful candidate will be familiar with word processing and data management, independently motivated, and have strong organizational skills. Preferred qualifications include experience working with freshwater systems or infectious diseases, and knowledge of sterile techniques and qPCR methods. Questions can be addressed to sear...@purdue.edu. Applications must be submitted via the Purdue University employment page (http://bit.ly/2GvyROW, job number 1800224). Review of candidates will begin Feb 28 and continue until the position is filled.
[ECOLOG-L] Graduate position in Population Connectivity of Great Lakes Fishes
A PhD position is available in lab of Mark Christie at Purdue University for a highly-motivated candidate interested in local adaptation, larval dispersal, conservation and population genetics in general. Similar to most marine systems, many Great Lakes fishes have a miniscule, but highly dispersive, pelagic larval stage that makes it challenging to directly determine patterns of population connectivity. However, such knowledge is critical for effective conservation and management efforts (e.g., MPA design). One way to assess patterns of population connectivity is with genetic methods. For this position, the candidate should be interested working on a project examining patterns of population connectivity and larval dispersal in Great Lakes fishes. Previous research experience with molecular techniques, computational work, statistics, bioinformatics, and assisting with the design and implementation of experiments will be highly regarded. The student will also be expected to interact regularly with Tomas Höök and information about our labs and the graduate school can be found here: https://ag.purdue.edu/fnr/Pages/default.aspx. If you are interested in joining the lab, please contact Mark Christie (chris...@purdue.edu) as soon as possible with a resume/CV and a brief description of your research interests and experience. Formal applications will be due to Purdue University by January 15th, 2018.
[ECOLOG-L] Vector Ecology - Assistant Professor at Purdue University
The Department of Biological Sciences invites applicants for a tenure-track faculty position (academic year appointment at the Assistant Professor level) in Vector Ecology, addressing fundamental questions on the relationships among vectors, pathogens, and hosts. We seek candidates with research interests including (but not limited to) emerging infectious diseases, zoonotic diseases, epidemiology, vector and pathogen evolution, biodiversity-disease relationships, short- and long-term impacts of climate change, population genetics, and land-use changes. Applicants must have a Ph.D. or equivalent in Biology or related field and relevant postdoctoral experience. The successful applicant is expected to maintain an externally funded research program in Vector Ecology, teach undergraduate and graduate students, and participate in ongoing programs in the Ecology and Evolutionary Biology area and the Department of Biological Sciences. Extensive opportunities for collaboration exist across the Purdue campus. The Department of Biological Sciences has over 50 faculty members conducting research in ecology and evolutionary biology, structural biology, neurobiology, virology, microbiology, molecular and cell biology, bioinformatics, and biology education http://www.bio.purdue.edu. These opportunities are enhanced by a highly interactive community of scientists within the Colleges of Science, Agriculture, Pharmacy, Health and Human Sciences, Veterinary Medicine and Engineering and interdisciplinary centers in the life sciences including the Purdue Center for the Environment, the Purdue Institute of Inflammation, Immunology and Infectious Diseases, the Purdue Institute for Integrative Neuroscience, and the Purdue Institute for Drug Discovery. Applications should be submitted electronically to https://hiring.science.purdue.edu/ as a single PDF file containing a letter of interest, a detailed curriculum vitae, contact information for three references, a two to three page summary of research interests, and a one-page teaching statement. Purdue University’s Department of Biological Sciences is committed to advancing diversity in all areas of faculty effort, including scholarship, instruction and engagement. Candidates should address at least one of these areas in their cover letter, indicating past experiences, current interests or activities, and/or future goals to promote a climate that values diversity and inclusion. Purdue is an ADVANCE institution. Inquiries should be directed to Prof. Esteban Fernandez-Juricic, Chair, Vector Ecologist Biology Search Committee at sea...@bio.purdue.edu or Vector Ecologist Biology Search Committee, Department of Biological Sciences, Purdue University, 915 W. State St., West Lafayette, IN 47907-2054. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. A background check is required for employment in this position. Purdue University is an EOE/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants, including minorities, women, individuals with disabilities and veterans are encouraged to apply.
[ECOLOG-L] Postdoc.PurdueUniversity.SeaLampreyGenomics
A postdoctoral position is available in the laboratory of Mark Christie at Purdue University (https://www.bio.purdue.edu/lab/christie/) to address a variety of evolutionary and genetic questions in sea lamprey (Petromyzon marinus). Part of the research will focus on addressing whether invasive sea lampreys are evolving resistance to a commonly used lampricide; a recent review of which is available here: https://www.bio.purdue.edu/lab/christie/docs/024_cjfas-2017-0015.pdf. Whole transcriptome sequencing (i.e., RNA-seq) will play a central role in this project, thus the ideal candidate will have a strong background in bioinformatics. Proficiency with Unix/Linux (bash shell) command line and one or more scripting languages (Perl/Python etc.) is preferred. Competitive applicants will also have familiarity with R and analytical methods in population genetics. The candidate is expected to be highly motivated and able to work both collaboratively and independently. The position is to be filled as soon as possible. Applicants must have a PhD; exceptional candidates who will complete their PhD within the next few months will also be considered. Applicants should submit 1. a cover letter that describes your research interests and goals, 2. a full CV, and 3. the names and contact information for three individuals who are willing to serve as references. Please submit all application materials as a single PDF file to markchris...@purdue.edu. Funding is available for two years contingent upon a successful one-year review. Review of applications will begin November 1st and continue until the position is filled. Purdue has substantial bioinformatics resources and state-of-the-art computational facilities ideal for working with high-throughput sequencing data. West Lafayette is located about 1 hour away from Indianapolis and two hours from Chicago. Purdue University's Department of Biological Sciences is committed to advancing diversity in all areas of faculty effort, including scholarship, instruction and engagement.
[ECOLOG-L] Assistant Professor in Vector Ecology at Purdue University
https://www.bio.purdue.edu/People/faculty/positions.html The Department of Biological Sciences at Purdue University invites applicants for a tenure-track faculty position (academic year appointment at the Assistant Professor level) in Vector Ecology, addressing fundamental questions on the relationships among vectors, pathogens, and hosts. We seek candidates with research interests including (but not limited to) emerging infectious diseases, zoonotic diseases, epidemiology, vector and pathogen evolution, biodiversity-disease relationships, short- and long-term impacts of climate change, population genetics, and land-use changes. Applicants must have a Ph.D. or equivalent in Biology or related field and relevant postdoctoral experience. The successful applicant is expected to maintain an externally funded research program in Vector Ecology, teach undergraduate and graduate students, and participate in ongoing programs in the Ecology and Evolutionary Biology area and the Department of Biological Sciences. Extensive opportunities for collaboration exist across the Purdue campus. The Department of Biological Sciences has over 50 faculty members conducting research in ecology and evolutionary biology, structural biology, neurobiology, virology, microbiology, molecular and cell biology, bioinformatics, and biology education http://www.bio.purdue.edu. These opportunities are enhanced by a highly interactive community of scientists within the Colleges of Science, Agriculture, Pharmacy, Health and Human Sciences, Veterinary Medicine and Engineering and interdisciplinary centers in the life sciences including the Purdue Center for the Environment, the Purdue Institute of Inflammation, Immunology and Infectious Diseases, the Purdue Institute for Integrative Neuroscience, and the Purdue Institute for Drug Discovery. Applications should be submitted electronically to https://hiring.science.purdue.edu/ as a single PDF file containing a letter of interest, a detailed curriculum vitae, contact information for three references, a two to three page summary of research interests, and a one-page teaching statement. Purdue University’s Department of Biological Sciences is committed to advancing diversity in all areas of faculty effort, including scholarship, instruction and engagement. Candidates should address at least one of these areas in their cover letter, indicating past experiences, current interests or activities, and/or future goals to promote a climate that values diversity and inclusion. Purdue is an ADVANCE institution. Inquiries should be directed to Prof. Esteban Fernandez-Juricic, Chair, Vector Ecologist Biology Search Committee at sea...@bio.purdue.edu or Vector Ecologist Biology Search Committee, Department of Biological Sciences, Purdue University, 915 W. State St., West Lafayette, IN 47907-2054. Review of applications will begin October 16, 2017 and continue until the position is filled. A background check is required for employment in this position.
[ECOLOG-L] Graduate positions in disease ecology
Ph.D. and M.S. positions are available in the lab of Catherine Searle at Purdue University. 1-2 positions are available for highly motivated candidates interested in disease ecology in freshwater systems. For information on research in the lab, please visit: http://web.ics.purdue.edu/~searlec The Searle lab focuses on infectious diseases in amphibians and Daphnia. Potential projects could include: 1) the effects of invasive species on native disease dynamics, 2) parasite-mediated selection and the role of host diversity, and 3) the effects of host diversity on parasite traits. These are the main themes in the Searle lab, but graduate students are free to explore related topics and systems. Previous work with infectious diseases, aquatic systems, and the design and implementation of ecological or evolutionary experiments will be highly regarded. If you are interested in joining the lab, please email sear...@purdue.edu with a resume/CV and a brief description of your research interests and experience.
[ECOLOG-L] Job opportunity: Research technician in aquatic disease ecology
A lab technician position is available in the Searle lab (http://web.ics.purdue.edu/~searlec) at Purdue University. The main focus of the lab is the ecology of infectious diseases in freshwater systems. The job will involve assisting with laboratory experiments, maintaining lab cultures, field sampling, ordering supplies, and supervising undergraduate research students. The minimum requirements are a 4 year college degree and prior research experience in ecology, biology, or equivalent field. The successful candidate will be familiar with word processing and data management, independently motivated, and have strong organizational skills. Experience working with freshwater systems or infectious diseases is preferred, but not required. Start date is flexible, but preference will be given to candidates who can start by March 31, 2015. Questions can be addressed to sear...@purdue.edu. Applications must be submitted via the Purdue University employment page (http://www.purdue.edu/purdue/employment, job number 1500296). Review of candidates will begin Feb 16 and continue until the position is filled.
