Research Associate-Fixed Term

Position Summary

The lab of Fredric Janzen (http://www.kbs.msu.edu/research/labs/janzen/) is recruiting a Postdoctoral Research Associate to join us at the W. K. Kellogg Biological Station (KBS), Michigan State University (http://www.kbs.msu.edu). The Janzen Lab leverages long-term population monitoring and expertise in theoretical modeling, quantitative genetics, and experimentation to understand the evolution ecology of a classic polyphenism – temperature-dependent sex determination (TSD) – that occurs in many reptiles. In so doing, we also gain insight into phenotypic plasticity relevant to responses of imperiled taxa to anthropogenic habitat/climate change. We seek an experimental molecular biologist to work on collaborative projects exploring TSD as a model for developmental phenotypic plasticity.

About the Role

The successful candidate will work collaboratively with the PI and lab team to develop a research program that integrates 'omics-level analyses with existing expertise to evaluate the evolutionary dynamics of TSD within and across reptile species with differing patterns of sex-ratio response to developmental temperatures. Available lab resources include long-term data and tissues from a wild pedigreed population of turtles with TSD, as well as comparable resources from geographically distant populations. The research could thus include comparisons among years within populations (including across generations), across populations within species, as well as across species, to clarify proximate and ultimate mechanisms underlying observed plasticity in thermal reaction norms in reptiles with TSD.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute experiments using molecular biology techniques, including preparation of high-throughput sequencing libraries and bioinformatics analysis of 'omics data.
• Collaborate with the PI and lab team to design and conduct studies that integrate 'omics-level analyses with existing expertise to evaluate the evolutionary dynamics of TSD within and across reptile species.
• Contribute to the development of a research program that integrates 'omics-level analyses with existing expertise to evaluate the evolutionary dynamics of TSD within and across reptile species with differing patterns of sex-ratio response to developmental temperatures.
• Work collaboratively with the PI and lab team to clarify proximate and ultimate mechanisms underlying observed plasticity in thermal reaction norms in reptiles with TSD.
• Participate in outreach and activities that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in STEM.

Requirements

• A PhD degree in Ecology, Evolution, Wildlife Biology, Conservation Biology or a related field.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated scholarly excellence.
• Relevant bench skills – wet lab/molecular biology experience, preparation of high-throughput sequencing libraries, bioinformatics capability related to 'omics data.
• A strong desire to advance our conceptual understanding of phenotypic plasticity, including polyphenisms.

Skills

• Strong background in molecular biology and bioinformatics.
• Experience with 'omics-level analyses.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively.

Benefits

• Opportunities for professional development and mentoring of student scholars.
• Time for independent project development.
• Resources for outreach and activities that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in STEM.

Pay

N/A

Schedule

N/A

Contact Information

To apply, please submit a cover letter, a curriculum vitae, a brief statement of research experiences/interests that incorporates efforts in DEI, and names and contact information for three references. Informal inquiries are encouraged prior to formal application. For formal application, please contact Fred Janzen (janzenf1@msu.edu) or Anne Bronikowski (abroniko@msu.edu).

Review of Applications Begins On 01/15/2025

Website: KBS.MSU.EDU

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