Postdoctoral Scholar in Soil Microbial Ecology

Penn State University; University Park (TX); Hybrid; USD 55,000 - 72,000; Full time

Job summary

Penn State University’s Soil Microbiomes Laboratory is seeking a Postdoctoral Scholar to advance the NSF CAREER project on biocrust microbiomes in arid lands. You will design experiments, apply molecular, imaging, and omics approaches, and contribute to mentoring students and project outreach.

The ideal candidate has strong background in environmental microbiology or soil science, excellent quantitative skills, and a track record of independent research and publications.

Qualifications

• Experience in environmental microbiology, microbial ecology, soil science, or related disciplines.
• Strong quantitative, organizational, and communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to conduct independent research and publish scientific results.
• Ability to work effectively in a collaborative and interdisciplinary research environment.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to research investigating the response of biocrust microbial communities to environmental change in arid and semi-arid ecosystems.
• Design and conduct laboratory, field, and/or mesocosm experiments.
• Apply molecular, microbiological, imaging, physiological, computational, and omics approaches as appropriate to the candidate’s interests and expertise.
• Analyze and interpret complex datasets and contribute to peer-reviewed publications and presentations.
• Collaborate with students, staff, and national and international project partners.
• Participate in mentoring undergraduate and graduate students.
• Contribute to educational and outreach activities.

Skills

Environmental microbiology

Microbial ecology

Soil science

Quantitative skills

Independent research

Collaborative teamwork

Education

PhD in a relevant field

Job description

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.

This is a term position; length of the term will be discussed during the interview process. Continuation past the termlengthdiscussed willbebasedonuniversityneed,performance,and/oravailabilityoffunding.

POSITION SPECIFICS

The Soil Microbiomes Laboratory of Dr. Estelle Couradeau is seeking a highly motivated scientist for a Postdoctoral Scholar position. The successful candidate will join the NSF CAREER-funded project:

CAREER: Breaking Ground: Uncovering the Fate of Biocrust Microbiome in Arid and Semi-Arid Lands.

This interdisciplinary project investigates how biological soil crust (biocrust) microbial communities respond to environmental change and the consequences for soil ecosystem functioning. The project integrates microbial ecology, soil science, microbial physiology, microfluidics, microscopy, omics approaches, and education and outreach activities. The successful candidate will join a collaborative and supportive research environment and contribute to advancing our understanding of microbial resilience in dryland ecosystems.

Key Responsibilities

• Contribute to research investigating the response of biocrust microbial communities to environmental change in arid and semi-arid ecosystems.

• Design and conduct laboratory, field, and/or mesocosm experiments.

• Apply molecular, microbiological, imaging, physiological, computational, and omics approaches as appropriate to the candidate’s interests and expertise.

• Analyze and interpret complex datasets and contribute to peer-reviewed publications and presentations.

• Collaborate with students, staff, and national and international project partners.

• Participate in mentoring undergraduate and graduate students.

• Contribute to educational and outreach activities.

Because this is a broad and interdisciplinary project, specific responsibilities will be tailored to the interests, expertise, and career goals of the successful candidate. Opportunities may include microbial ecology, bioinformatics, microbial physiology, microscopy and image analysis, microfluidics and SoilChip development, field ecology, carbon cycle research, mentoring, and science outreach.

The successful candidate will work closely with the PI to develop a research program that both advances project goals and supports their long-term professional development.

Qualifications

• Experience in environmental microbiology, microbial ecology, soil science, or related disciplines.

• Strong quantitative, organizational, and communication skills.

• Demonstrated ability to conduct independent research and publish scientific results.

• Ability to work effectively in a collaborative and interdisciplinary research environment.

Desired Attributes

• A generous team member dedicated to fostering collaboration and building communities.

• A curious mind with a strong drive for advancing research in the field.

If you are passionate about advancing our understanding of soil microbiomes and their resilience, we encourage you to apply.

The successful candidate must have completed all degree requirements by the appointment date.

BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. This position requires that you operate a motor vehicle as a part of your job duties. A valid driver’s license and successful completion of a motor vehicle records check will be required in addition to standard background checks.

BENEFITS

Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being.

For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page. (Note: For Postdoctoral benefits, please see our Postdoctoral Benefits page.)

CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS

Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.

EEO IS THE LAW

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.

Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university’s teaching, research, and service mission.

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