POSTDOCTORAL RESEARCH FELLOW IN experimental evolution of virulence:
The King Lab in the Departments of Microbiology & Immunology and Zoology (Faculty of Science) at the University of British Columbia (UBC) is seeking an enthusiastic and self-motivated Postdoctoral Fellow to advance knowledge and improve understanding of the ecological factors driving pathogen virulence evolution in a changing world.
Dr. Kayla King leads a diverse team with an interdisciplinary approach and thrives to foster excellence in the evolution and ecology of host-pathogen interactions.
The successful applicant will have the opportunity to conduct experimental evolution in a wild animal-microbial pathogen system and to develop complementary theory in collaboration with Dr. Sally Otto. In addition, there are several opportunities to contribute to ongoing studies in The King Lab.
Key Responsibilities:
Study design, hypotheses generation, microbial experimental evolution, statistical analyses and interpretation, presentation of findings, grant writing, drafting and publication of scientific manuscripts; assisting with mentorship/supervision of graduate students.
Qualifications:
- Recent PhD in evolutionary biology, ecology, and/or infectious disease
- Experience with culturing microbes, as well as microbiological research methodology and design
- Experience with developing and/or testing mathematical theory
- Computer proficiency including statistical software (e.g. R)
- Excellent problem-solving and strong written/verbal communication skills
- Strong academic record showing excellence as a researcher
- Bioinformatics experience is an asset, but not essential
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively with various researchers to efficiently meet study goals.
Start date is negotiable. Funding for this position is available for 2 years with possibility of extension. Salary will start at $60,000 (CAD) with a generous extended health benefits package. Salary will be commensurate with qualifications, experience, and any independent funding secured. Only shortlisted candidates will be notified.
To apply, please send: (i) your letter of interest, (ii) CV, and (iii) names/contact information for 3 references in one file (Last Name, First Name: PDF.Virulence.Evolution) to Dr. Kayla King at: kayla.king@ubc.ca
For more details about The King Lab, please see: http://thekinglab.com Equity and diversity are essential to academic excellence. An open and diverse community fosters the inclusion of voices that have been underrepresented or discouraged.
We encourage applications from members of groups that have been marginalized on any grounds enumerated under the B.C. Human Rights Code, including sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, racialization, disability, political belief, religion, marital or family status, age, and/or status as a First Nation, Metis, Inuit, or Indigenous person.
We understand that career paths vary. Legitimate career interruptions will in no way prejudice the assessment process, and their impact will be carefully considered.