Post-doctoral Position in Comparative Fungal Genomics: Davis, United States
A Post-doctoral position is immediately available in the field of Comparative Fungal Genomics at the department of Plant Pathology, University of California Davis (UCD) and the lab of Dr Ioannis Stergiopoulos. The interdisciplinary research group focuses on the genetics, genomics and evolution of plant-microbe interactions, aiming at gaining a deeper level of understanding on the molecular mechanisms of fungal pathogenesis and host-specificity on plants (https://plantpathology.ucdavis.edu/faculty/stergiopoulos/).
The project will focus on the evolution of virulence and host-specificity in fungal plant pathogens and will involve the genome sequencing of several Dothideomycete species using next generation sequencing platforms (Illumina, PacBio), bioinformatics analyses, and follow-up in vivo experiments to investigate the biological significance of the data generated by the in silico analyses. Emphasis will be given on comparative secretome analyses and the characterization of virulence and pathogenicity factors from selected Dothideomycete plant pathogens. Sequencing of specific pathogens has already been initiated at the department of Biological Sciences at Vanderbilt University, TN, USA, as part of ongoing collaborations and will continue at the UCD Genome Research Center. The candidate will also collaborate with labs in the Netherlands and the US for the exchange of data and expertise in the fields of Comparative Genomics and Molecular Plant-Microbe Interactions. Finally, the person filling this position is expected to work closely with other members of the group currently under recruitment who will perform the experimental validation of the data generated by the bioinformatics analyses.
Required qualifications for this position are a PhD in Bioinformatics, Computational Sciences, Statistics or equivalent. Excellent knowledge in programming (Perl/Python, etc), use of Unix/Linux and demonstrated previous experience with analyzing large genomic data sets generated by next generation sequencing platforms are mandatory. Previous working experience with plant pathogens is desirable but not required. A strong publication record and excellent oral and written communication skills are also highly desirable attributes. The position is for 2 years (1+1) but could be extended if additional funding is available. Salary is based on experience and qualifications according to NIHguidelines. The University of California Davis provides a highly vibrant intellectual atmosphere, a pleasant college environment and career development activities specifically designed for Post-docs.
Please send in a single pdf file a full CV, a short description of your research experience that is relevant to this position and contact details of three references to Dr Ioannis Stergiopoulos (istergiopoulos@ucdavis.edu).