Post-Doctoral Position in Mosquito Genomics

Post-Doctoral Position in Mosquito Genomics

The Bergey Lab in the Department of Genetics at Rutgers University invites applicants for a postdoctoral associate to join projects that apply genomic or transcriptomic techniques to investigate natural populations of mosquitoes that transmit malaria (genus Anopheles) in Africa. Our research group combines evolutionary and population genomics to understand how past environments impact modern medically-relevant traits in people, non-human primates, and mosquito vectors of diseases.

Project Overview:

The successful candidate will join projects focused on wild mosquito populations in tropical Africa, with a great degree of flexibility in their ultimate focus. Active research projects in the lab include investigations into the ecological determinants of mosquito population structure and population connectivity; studies to identify genetic correlates of host preference (e.g., attraction to human vs. cow odor); and research on mosquito host-pathogen interaction and mosquito immune system evolution.

To accomplish any of these aims, the candidate will analyze population-scale, genome-wide genomic and/or transcriptomic datasets. The candidate may join international trips for consultation with participant communities and sampling, and they will work closely with a strong international collaborative network of researchers.

Qualifications:

Candidates should have a Ph.D. in a relevant field (e.g., biology, genetics, immunology, evolutionary biology, entomology, etc.) with strong skills in genomics and bioinformatics. Experience analyzing transcriptomic and/or genomic data is required. Proficiency with a programming language (such as R or Python) is also required. Prior experience conducting research in resource-limited settings is welcome. Molecular laboratory experience is preferred, but not required, as the project is primarily computational.

Additional Details:

The successful candidate will have opportunities to explore interests related to the project and research focus of the lab. Although our laboratory is in New Brunswick, NJ (located within commuting distance to New York City), there may be some flexibility regarding the location of the position. 

The start date is flexible, with preference to September-December 2022. The term is initially one year in length, with the possibility to extend contingent on performance. The position includes a competitive salary and benefits.

Application:

Applicants should submit: 1) a cover letter describing research interests and experiences; 2) a CV; and 3) the names and email addresses for three references. Please send full application packages as a single PDF file to Dr. Christina Bergey at christina.bergey@rutgers.edu. For consideration, applications must be submitted electronically. Screening of applications will occur on a rolling basis, and informal inquiries are welcome.

Rutgers is an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer. For additional information please see the Non-Discrimination Statement at: http://uhr.rutgers.edu/non-discrimination-statement.