Graduate Assistantship in Aquatic Microbial Ecology and Biogeochemistry

Aquatic Microbial Ecology Graduate Student Position at Michigan Tech

A graduate student position is available in the Vick-Majors Aquatic Microbial Ecology lab in the Department of Biological Sciences at Michigan Technological University beginning Fall 2020 or sooner. The Vick-Majors Lab studies the linkages between physical and chemical processes and microbial communities in aquatic systems. We use a combination of field and lab-based approaches to understand reciprocal relationships between microorganisms and the environment. Learn more about the Vick-Majors Lab here: http://bio.sites.mtu.edu/vick-majors/.

Potential research topics include:

  • Microbial community function and dissolved organic matter dynamics under ice
  • Production and consumption of dissolved organic matter by microbial isolates from a subglacial lake
  • Development of models describing non-steady-state dissolved organic carbon dynamics in subglacial lakes
  • Seasonal linkages between microbial communities and dissolved organic matter 

The lab seeks a highly motivated student (M.S. or Ph.D. depending on qualifications and interests), with experience preferred in microbiology, microbial molecular techniques, dissolved organic matter chemistry, and/or systems dynamics modelling. The ideal candidate should communicate effectively, be reliable, well-organized, and respectful of others. The Vick-Majors Lab is committed to creating a diverse environment; all qualified applicants will receive consideration. Interested candidates should contact Dr. Trista Vick-Majors (tjvickma@mtu.edu) with a one-page cover letter describing your interest in the position, including degree type, and a resume or CV including contact information for at least two professional references. Applications received by November 30, 2019 will be given priority consideration, but the position will remain open until filled. Candidates could enroll in the Biological Sciences Ph.D. or M.S. programs (http://www.mtu.edu/biological/graduate/bio-sci/) or the Ph.D. program in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (http://www.mtu.edu/biochemistry/). Michigan Tech is an Equal Opportunity Educational Institution/Equal Opportunity Employer.

Application deadline: Open until filled
Start date: Flexible
Location: Michigan Technological University