Job Description

The Department of Biology at the United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) is seeking applications for a full-time research associate or postdoctoral fellow to investigate Plant-Microbial Interaction in arid ecosystem. The successful candidate will be offered a two year position in research project supported by a UAEU research council.

The candidate will be involved in the project investigating microbiome (including bacteria and fungi) diversity and their functionality in arid soil and plant roots.

The goal of the project is to understand the responsive dynamics of the arid soil microbiome in relation to extreme drought and salinity conditions as well as changing temperatures patterns. Next generation sequencing (NGS) techniques focussing on metabarcoding/metagenomics analyses, coupled with ecological experimental approaches will be used in the project.

Minimum Qualification

Highly motivated candidates with Masters (PhD for postdoc position) in Biology, strong academic track record and relevant experience in microbial ecology (microbiome diversity and functional assessment using molecular tools specifically metabarcoding / metagenomics) are specially encouraged to apply.

Preferred Qualification

Candidate with experience in ecological experiment design, eDNA extraction, NGS library preparation and bioinformatic as well as statistical analyses (using R) of big genomic dataset (metabarcoding/metagenomics) is highly preferred. Excellent oral and written communication skills in English and ability to work well in collaborative environment with skills in networking are highly advantageous.

Expected Skills/Rank/Experience

The selected candidate is expected to:

1. Conduct field work (soil and root collection) in arid environment;
2. Process samples for biochemical and molecular lab work;
3. Analyse the genomic dataset;
4. Prepare manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed scientific journals;
5. Assist in supervising/mentoring undergraduate and graduate students; and
6. obtain externally funded projects.

To apply for the position applicant must include:

1. A cover letter including a motivation statement for the position;
2. CV (summarising education, positions and academic work, scientific publications and other relevant experience);
3. Copies of educational certificates and/or transcripts of records;
4. List of publications and academic work that the applicant wishes to be considered by the evaluating committee; and
5. Names and contact details of three references (name, affiliation, relation to candidate, e-mail and telephone number; the references will be contacted if necessary therefore letters of recommendation are not required for the initial application).

For further information regarding the position, please contact Dr. Sunil Mundra (e-mail: sunilmundra@uaeu.ac.ae).

Evaluation for the position be based on education, experience as well as motivation in terms of the qualification requirements as mentioned above.

Special Instructions to Applicant

Position remain open until filled. Application screening will start from March 20, 2020.

Division College of Science - (COS)

Department Biology - (COS)

Job Close Date 30-06-2020

Job Category Academic - Post-Doctoral

Salary 7000 to 8000 AED (ca. $ 1900 to 2200) per month (tax free)