Position Summary

A research associate (postdoctoral position) is available in the Evans Lab at Michigan State University’s Kellogg Biological Station in soil microbial ecology. The postdoc will develop research within the overarching goal of understanding and optimizing microbial function (esp carbon accrual and nitrogen availability) in managed soils. Previous work from our group in this area, which the postdoc could build on and leverage focus on (i) controls on free living nitrogen fixation; (ii) the role of microbes in drought and flooding, including response to stress and role in altering soil properties like water holding capacity; and (iii) the role of mycorrhizae in supporting plant nutrient acquisition and drought tolerance. The postdoc would have the opportunity to use long-term field treatments at KBS (LTER, GLBRC), experimental mesocosm systems, existing microbial datasets, and existing culture collections to develop an impactful project building off these topics. Helpful skills include metagenomics, inoculation mesocosms, stable isotopes, meta-analysis, systems modeling, and biogeochemistry. The candidate would also interact with a large team of collaborators at MSU and if desired, have the opportunity to forge non-academic partnerships (industry, non-profit, etc) that relate to sustainability solutions and soil health.

The successful candidate will join the Evans Lab at Michigan State University’s Kellogg Biological Station. The successful candidate will be a team player, self-motivated and have strong writing skills. Applicants may highlight experience with stable isotope methods, ecosystem modeling, and meta-analysis (including metagenomics synthesis).

Start date: The postdoctoral appointment is for two years. Ideal start date will be June 2024. This position is open to potential remote-work options; however, some time on site at Kellogg Biological Station will be required.

Postdoc development: KBS and the Evans Lab are committed to postdoctoral research career development. The postdoc will have professional development opportunities in the form of mentoring, teaching, grant writing, public communication and others, while working on highly collaborative research projects to meet the postdoc’s defined career goals. In the Evans Lab we have prioritized creation of a diverse environment that supports individuals regardless of cultural background, race, orientation, or ethnicity.

*Apply by 1/31/2024 for full consideration, but applications can be accepted after this date. Inquire via email if you are unsure whether applications are still being accepted.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Required Degree

Doctorate -Microbiology, Ecology, Genetics, Molecular Biology

Minimum Requirements

PhD in Microbiology, Ecology, Genetics, Molecular Biology or related field and have strong oral and written communication skills

Desired Qualifications

• Knowledge of one or more of the following: DNA/RNA extraction, soils, nitrogen cycling, and bioinformatics.
• Favorable skills are familiarity with shotgun metagenomics, meta-analysis, systems modeling, stable isotope probing.

Required Application Materials

1) cover letter (2 page max) that includes: research accomplishments; experience and demonstration of skills relevant to this area of study; and leadership experience

2) a CV, and

3) contact information (name, position, phone, email) for three references

Special Instructions

Apply by 1/31/2024 for full consideration, but applications can be accepted after this date. Inquire via email if you are unsure whether applications are still being accepted.

Review of Applications Begins On

02/01/2024

Remote Work Statement

MSU strives to provide a flexible work environment and this position has been designated as remote-friendly. Remote-friendly means some or all of the duties can be performed remotely as mutually agreed upon.

Website

KBS.MSU.EDU

MSU Statement

Michigan State University has been advancing the common good with uncommon will for more than 160 years. One of the top research universities in the world, MSU pushes the boundaries of discovery and forges enduring partnerships to solve the most pressing global challenges while providing life-changing opportunities to a diverse and inclusive academic community through more than 200 programs of study in 17 degree-granting colleges.