The postdoctoral researcher will lead, together with the PI, the analysis of the gut microbiome composition and functional diversity of the wild pollinator species Bombus pascuorum and how this composition changes through a time depending on the diversity of floral resources consumed by individuals of this species, as well as how it is impacted by the introduction of managed honeybee hives.
Generally, the researcher will support the PI and the rest of the team to achieve the scientific objectives of the project, publish and disseminate project findings.
Key responsibilities:
- Develop experimental design and analyses to study microbiomes and metagenomes to characterize bacterial and fungal communities in wild pollinator guts.
- Develop expertise in pollinator microbial communities and contribute new knowledge and ideas to this area of research.
- Develop and apply bioinformatics tools and approaches to identify communities, relevant taxa and associations.
- Analyze and visualize data.
- Contribute to written and oral communication, including peer-reviewed manuscripts, blog posts, outreach through social media, and the public.
- Archive data and maintains databases and contribute to budget management.
- Support the organization of project meetings and conferences across the project.
- Participate in student mentoring.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Main requirements/skills:
- Strong analytical skills, good knowledge of statistics, and programming experience.
- Degree in Biology, Molecular Biology, Microbiology or similar
- Proficiency in laboratory practice, experimental design, laboratory safety procedures.
- Proficiency in bioinformatics.
- A high level of computer literacy.
- Ability to read and interpret safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals.
- Excellent written and oral communication skills and ability and interest in communicating with diverse groups.
- Excellent written and oral command of English.
- Academic excellence in Molecular Ecology, evidenced by previous works including PhD or postdoctoral research.
- Ability to work collaboratively.
- Ability to write reports, correspondence, and peer-reviewed manuscripts.
- Ability and interest in contributing to outreach activities.
- Ability to contribute to a positive work environment built on trust and transparency that values different perspectives and backgrounds.
- Driver’s license and previous experience driving a four-wheel drive vehicle.
- Previous experience with liquid nitrogen and dry ice manipulation.
- Previous laboratory experience in DNA extraction and handling.
- Ability to work with a high degree of independence.
IMPORTANT: Applications including links to previous works/projects/initiatives that show how the applicant meets these requirements will be given priority.
Benefits and work environment:
- Interdisciplinary and inspiring work environment
- Quiet and spacious workspaces
- Possibility of participating in internal training and academic activities of the center
- 35-hour week work calendar
- 30 days of vacation per year
