The Laboratory of Dr. Buck Samuel within the Alkek Center for Metagenomics and Microbiome Research at the Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX is seeking to fill an NASA-funded Postdoctoral Researcher position on host-microbiome interactions.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
NASA – Impact of the gut microbiome on the integrative physiology of genetically diverse invertebrates: This work pioneers the use of genetically diverse hosts, newly built microbiomes, and innovative phenotyping tools that should break new ground in understanding host-microbiome interactions in space-flight. A rich repository of transcriptomic/sequencing data of microbiomes, invertebrates; tissue-level data of gut/muscle/nerve; and whole-animal functional imagery data will be available to the scientific community to generate new hypotheses on individual specific microbiome-driven response in space-flight. This flight project lays the ground work for studying the importance of the microbiome on the Moon enabling U.S. to lead in deep space exploration. Collaborators/PIs: Monica Driscoll (Rutgers), Nate Szewczyk (Ohio University), and Siva Vanapalli (Texas Tech).
Successful candidates will participate in development of innovative approaches to identification of these host genetic networks and employ a broad range of molecular and systems-level techniques across disciplines. They will also join a dynamic group of microbial ecologists, microbiologists, virologists and immunologists within the Center as well as engage with collaborators at NASA, Texas Tech, Rutgers and the University of Ohio.
The ideal candidate will have the ability to work comfortably and collaboratively with a diverse group of researchers. Women and individuals from historically under-represented groups are particularly encouraged to apply.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Ph.D. degree in molecular biology, genetics, bioengineering, systems biology or related field
- Clear and effective communication skills
- Scientific creativity, rigor, and independence in research
- Research experience and/or demonstrated interest in host-microbial interactions
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Experience with a genetic system (C. elegans, E. coli, yeast, drosophila, zebrafish, etc.)
- Experience with analysis of quantitative datasets generated by high-throughput sequencing, systems biology and/or bioinformatic/quantitative skills
APPLICATION MATERIALS:
- a cover letter (1-2 pages) detailing reasons for interest in the position that highlights relevant experience and career goals;
- CV; and
- contact info for 3+ references.