Job Description Summary
The Noel lab at the department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, Auburn University, is seeking a post-doctoral researcher to work on modeling soil-borne pathogen populations and the microbiome against climatic and soil edaphic factors across the cotton belt using metabarcoding and/or metagenomic sequencing. Candidates should demonstrate a clear and robust record of collaborative project management within a diverse and multidisciplinary team. Candidates should also show a strong history of data handling, manuscript preparation, problem-solving, and independent critical thinking. Candidates with training and demonstrated experience in bioinformatics, including R and script-based programming languages are encouraged to apply. The candidate will also have an opportunity to mentor graduate and undergraduate students and develop an independent research project related to the central aims of the research.
This is a benefit-eligible, non-tenure track position. The appointment is for an initial period of one year with a possibility of continuance for up to two years, depending on performance and funding availability.
Auburn University is one of the nation’s premier public land-grant institutions. In 2020, it was ranked 44th among public universities by U.S. News and World Report, and it is categorized as a Carnegie very high research activity, or R1, university. Auburn’s 2020 enrollment of 31,764 students included 25,379 undergraduate and 6,385 graduate and professional students. Organized into twelve academic colleges and schools, Auburn’s faculty members offer more than 200 educational programs at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels. The University is nationally recognized for its commitment to academic excellence, its positive work environment, its student engagement, and its beautiful campus.
Auburn residents enjoy a thriving community, recognized as one of the “best small towns in America,” with moderate climate and easy access to major cities or to beach and mountain recreational facilities. Situated along the rapidly developing I-85 corridor between Atlanta, Georgia, and Montgomery, Alabama, the combined Auburn-Opelika-Columbus statistical area has a population of over 500,000, with excellent public-school systems and regional medical centers.
Minimum Qualifications
The minimum qualification is an earned Ph.D. in biological sciences, plant pathology, microbiology, microbial ecology/evolution, or related field at the time employment begins. Relevant experience in bioinformatics, molecular genetics and/or genomics and experience in basic microbiology is required. Selected candidates must have effective oral and written communication skills and strong independent and collaborative project leadership skills.
The individual selected for the position must be able to meet eligibility requirements for work in the United States by the start date and continue working legally for the proposed term of employment.
Desired Qualifications
Special Instructions to Applicants
Applicants must complete an on-line application process at the following link:
https://www.auemployment.com/postings/33964
and attach the following: 1) Cover letter stating research interests and career goals, 2) current curriculum vita, and 3) copies of all academic transcripts. When prompted, please provide names, phone numbers, and email addresses of three professional references. Only complete application materials will be considered. Active review of applications will begin December 1, 2022 and continue until the position is filled. Salary will be commensurate with education and experience. For questions regarding the position, please contact Dr. Zachary Noel at zan0002@auburn.edu
