Postdoctoral Research Associate position in Conservation Immunology, to work with Professors Andrea L. Graham and Bridgett von Holdt in the Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Princeton University, in collaboration with Dr. Frances Gulland of UC-Davis and the Marine Mammal Center.

Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Research Associate or more senior research position for a project at the crossroads of immunology and conservation: to discover how northern elephant seals (Mirounga angustirostris) defend themselves against infection, despite immunogenetic depletion caused by a severe population bottleneck in the early 1900s.  We are especially keen to explain why elephant seals succumb to a particular species of nematode (Otostrongylus circumlitus) but readily fend off other helminths as well as viruses and bacteria that fell other marine mammals.

The postdoctoral researcher will be an intrinsic part of the field sampling team on the California coast (for approximately 4 weeks during the year), will lead laboratory work in parasitology, cell culture, and molecular biology, and will then have primary responsibility for bioinformatic analysis.  

Ph.D. and/or D.V.M required, as is experience in field work with large mammals.  Furthermore, the successful candidate will be experienced at basic DNA techniques (e.g. DNA extraction and purification, quantification, etc.) as well as library preparation methods for RNA-seq and BS-seq, and have a strong background in bioinformatic analyses or computational genomics. Familiarity with R, Python or Perl or a comparable language, and bash/shell scripting is needed. Experience with aligners, assemblers, and other whole genome-based utilities, as well as genome annotation tools, databases, and other public repositories is strongly preferred.  The postdoctoral researcher would also be responsible for detailed and careful curation of the samples and related genomic libraries.

Experience in cellular immunology, helminth parasitology, carnivore conservation, and/or marine mammal medicine is also desired but not essential.

The appointment is for one year initially, with the possibility of renewal of an additional year, based on satisfactory performance and funding. Salary is competitive and commensurate with experience, and benefits are included. This position is available as early as mid-October and will be open until filled. This position is subject to the University's background-check policy.

Applicants should apply online at %listing link% and include a curriculum vitae, a one page statement of research interests and experience, and a cover letter that includes names and contact information of three references.

Princeton University is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.