The Fowler lab at Simon Fraser University is looking for a postdoctoral fellow to join our Environmental
Microbiology lab in the Department of Biology, Faculty of Science. The project focuses on the metabolic
potential and activity of the aeromicrobiome.
The proposed start date is February 2024. Review of applications will begin on January 15, 2024 and will
continue until the position is filled.
Project and responsibilities
The PDF will work on an interdisciplinary project examining the metabolism of microbes in the atmosphere.
In particular, the project will focus on methanotrophs and their ability to biotransform methane and other
compounds under atmospheric conditions. The project will combine fieldwork, metagenomics, microbial
cultivation and physiological characterization. The PDF will work closely with collaborators in the Borduas-
Dedekind lab, Department of Chemistry at the University of British Columbia on fieldwork and physiological
characterization of methanotroph activity, and with students at SFU on cultivation and characterization of
methanotrophs.
The project includes a budget for knowledge dissemination and conference travel. The successful candidate
will be actively supported to develop their academic publication and research record and will have ample
networking opportunities.
Mentorship will be provided to support the candidate to extend the tenure of their appointment by applying
for additional funding.
Qualifications
• A PhD in microbiology, bioinformatics, biotechnology or a related field awarded no longer than 4.5
years ago, or evidence of a PhD defense/ submission date in the near future
• Experience in at least one of the following: working with methanotrophic cultures or strains, or
analysis of metagenomic datasets
• Experience with molecular methods such as DNA extraction, PCR, qPCR is essential, and
experience working with low-biomass samples and complex matrices would be an asset
• The ability to work collaboratively across disciplines and as part of a diverse team is essential as the
successful candidate will be working across two labs in biology and chemistry departments
• Strong writing skills, including experience publishing academic journal articles and conference
proceedings
• Creative problem solving and communication skills are valuable assets, as this project will require
substantial development of new methodologies
In your application, please clearly indicate how you meet each of these qualifications.
This is a full-time position with an initial appointment of one year with a possibility of extension. The initial
salary range is $48,000-$56,000 per year plus benefits.
The project PIs aim to foster an open and diverse lab environment that support the scientific development of
trainees from all walks of life. We encourage applications from members of groups that have been
marginalized on any grounds. Equity and diversity enhance academic excellence.
To learn more about Dr. Fowler’s lab and their research visit: www.jfowlerlab.weebly.com
To join our team, please email sjfowler@sfu.ca with subject line Postdoctoral Fellow in Aeromicrobiology
with the following items attached: Cover letter, CV/Resume
See the full posting here: https://jfowlerlab.weebly.com/uploads/1/4/2/6/142609242/postdoc-dec2023.pdf