Postdoctoral Scholar in Terrestrial Subsurface Metagenomics (at Stanford University)

Examining how hydrological perturbations influence subsurface microbial community structure

Applications are invited for an exciting postdoctoral opportunity within the Department of Earth System Science at Stanford University to examine how hydrological and geochemical changes influence the structure and function of subsurface microbial communities involved in C, N, S, and metal cycling. The successful candidate will employ a powerful combination of meta-omic approaches to characterize the microbiome within riparian floodplain soils and sediments from Riverton, WY and Slate River, CO. 

This is a Department of Energy, Office of Science funded project, which will collaborate closely with the DOE-BER-funded Floodplain Hydro-Biogeochemistry Scientific Focus Area (managed by a team at the SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory; https://www-ssrl.slac.stanford.edu/sfa/). The multi-disciplinary SLAC-SFA team is focused on integrating observations of water transport, microbiology, and geochemistry to develop models of hydro-biogeochemical coupling and its impact elemental cycling.

Desired qualifications and project responsibilities

  1. Extensive experience using meta-omic approaches (including metagenomics, metatranscriptomics, and amplicon sequencing) to characterize microbial communities.
  2. Fluency in R and programing languages such as Python
  3. Ability to work effectively with scientists of different disciplinary backgrounds and serve as a communication nexus.
  4. Communicate regularly and work with other researchers on this project in order to facilitate progress toward program goals.
  5. Ability to work carefully but efficiently in order to meet project goals in a timely manner.
  6. Publish research results in peer-reviewed journals.
  7. Presentation of research results to internal groups and at large national and international meetings.

Required:  Ph.D in Environmental Microbiology, Microbial Genomics, Bioinformatics, Computational Biology, or a related field. Strong computational skills for analyzing large meta-omic datasets.

To apply:  Qualified applicants should submit (1) a curriculum vitae, (2) a one-page statement of research interests, experience, and goals, and (3) the names and contact information of three references.  Applications will be reviewed as received, continuing until a suitable applicant is identified. All application materials and inquiries should be sent to Prof. Chris Francis (caf@stanford.edu).

 

Stanford is an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Stanford also welcomes applications from others who would bring additional dimensions to the University’s research, teaching and clinical missions.

Application deadline: Open until filled
Start date: ASAP
Location: Stanford University