Post-Doctoral ( 1 -2 ) Position(s) in Marine Mixotrophy

Applications are invited for (a) postdoctoral scholar(s) to engage in research on marine mixotrophic protists. The postdoc(s) will have the opportunity to work on one of a number of active research projects in the Moeller Lab at the University of California, Santa Barbara, using either or a combination of laboratory experiments, bioinformatics, and (calculus-based) ecological models. Projects include but are not limited to (1) predicting the evolutionary response of constitutive mixotrophs to warming ocean temperatures, and (2) identifying key evolutionary transitions as cells incorporate functional chloroplasts. We expect to hire up to two individuals based on the pool of qualified applicants. The appointee(s) may work on one or both projects, depending upon interests and past experience. We are especially interested in recruiting individuals with experience in cell biology, bioinformatics, and/or ecological modeling.

The first project tests the role of mixotrophs in a potential climate feedback loop that may accelerate carbon emissions from the surface ocean. In particular, we test the hypothesis that mixotrophs will become more heterotrophic under warmer ocean conditions, and ask whether evolution (e.g., adaptation to warmer ocean conditions) may modulate this response. The postdoctoral scholar(s) will be involved in both experimental and modeling components of the project, including the design and implementation of evolution experiments, measurement of transcriptional and physiological responses, development of new optimization models, and incorporation of results into ecosystem models.

The second project asks how protists incorporate functional chloroplasts into their metabolic repertoire. We use the Mesodinium genus of ciliates to understand key evolutionary transitions from heterotrophy to phototrophy. RNA sequencing data indicate a close integration of prey organelles into the ciliate host's metabolism, but how this integration is achieved at the cellular level remains unclear. The postdoctoral scholar(s) would carry out laboratory studies to identify molecular mechanisms of integration, including through the development of new techniques to identify and track cellular components. The postdoctoral scholar(s) may also use bioinformatic and/or ecological modeling approaches to explore evolutionary questions.

The postdoctoral scholar(s) will also be encouraged to develop independent but related lines of inquiry and to take advantage of professional development opportunities available at UC Santa Barbara and through collaborations, meeting attendance, etc.

The appointee(s) will be based at UCSB in the laboratory of Dr. Holly Moeller, and will have the opportunity to collaborate with Dr. Charlotte Laufkotter (University of Bern), Dr. Stephanie Dutkiewicz (MIT), and Dr. Matthew Johnson (Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution). The project includes funds for travel for collaborative visits to these other institutions.

The University is especially interested in candidates who can contribute to the diversity and excellence of the academic community through research, teaching, and service as appropriate to the position.

Applicants must hold a PhD or be enrolled in a PhD-granting program or international equivalent at time of application."

PhD in biological engineering, biology, cell biology, microbial ecology, mathematical biology, mathematics, oceanography, or closely related disciplines by time of appointment.

-Prior research experience in one or more of the following areas: ecological modeling, ocean biogeochemistry, marine microbial ecology, cell biology, bioinformatics, or closely related disciplines.

-Teaching or mentoring experience, especially with undergraduate scholars.

-Programming experience in statistics, bioinformatics, ecological modeling, or earth system modeling.

-A track record of talks and peer-reviewed publications appropriate to career stage.

• 3-5 required (contact information only)

Please provide the name and email address for 3-5 references in order to complete your application. The references of the top finalists may be contacted following the interview process.

The University of California is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. 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.

As a condition of employment, you will be required to comply with the University of California Policy on Vaccination Programs, as may be amended or revised from time to time. Federal, state, or local public health directives may impose additional requirements.