Postdoctoral Research Opportunity in Molecular Microbiology at the U.S. Department of Agriculture

A molecular microbiology postdoctoral research opportunity is available with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Agricultural Research Service (ARS) National Animal Disease Center (NADC), Virus and Prion Research Unit (VPRU) in Ames, Iowa. The selected applicant will conduct basic and applied research on swine bacterial pathogens. Projects include identifying virulence factors and evaluating the molecular mechanisms used by swine bacterial pathogens, such as Bordetella bronchiseptica, Haemophilus parasuis, and Streptococcus suis, to colonize and cause disease. 

The selected applicant’s main activities will include genetic modification of bacterial strains, performing biofilm assays, measuring swine immune responses, analyzing RNA and DNA sequencing data to identify genetic elements of diversity that contribute to disease outcomes, and evaluating pathogenesis using molecular tools both in cell culture and in swine infection studies. Secondary activities may include working with the swine bacterial pathogens team on ongoing projects. The selected applicant will present research findings in laboratory meetings and seminars and will write scientific manuscripts and publish them in peer-reviewed scientific journals.

The initial appointment is for one year, but may be renewed upon recommendation of ARS and is contingent on the availability of funds. The participant will receive an annual stipend in the range of $59,246-71,012 as well as a monthly health insurance stipend supplement. Proof of health insurance is required for participation in this program. Full or partial reimbursement for travel expenses to conferences, scientific meetings, or training may be provided. The appointment is full-time.

Qualifications:

Qualified candidates must have received a doctorate degree in Microbiology, Immunology, Molecular Biology or equivalent degree, within five years of the desired starting date. Relevant fields include microbiology, molecular biology, bioinformatics, and infectious diseases.

This opportunity is available to U.S. citizens, Lawful Permanent Residents (LPR), and foreign nationals. Non-U.S. citizen applicants should refer to the Guidelines for Non-U.S. Citizens Details page of the program website for information about the valid immigration statuses that are acceptable for program participation.

For more information about the ARS Research Participation Program, please visit the Program Website.

For a full description of this opportunity and to submit your application, visit https://www.zintellect.com/Opportunity/Details/ARS-VPRU-2018-980-0031.

If you have any questions, please send an email to USDA-ARS@orau.org.