Postdoc en genética y evolución de comportamiento (Arizona, USA)

The Matzkin Lab at the University of Arizona, Department of Entomology is currently recruiting a postdoc to work on a NSF funded three year project aiming to examine the genetic basis and evolution of alternative larval behaviors and ultimately in understanding how local ecological adaptation can lead to the divergence of populations. I am seeking a highly motivated and creative individual with strong quantitative & evolutionary genetics, molecular and/or computational biology skills to join our evolutionary and ecological genomics lab. Good writing and communication skills will be required for this position. Prior experience working with Drosophila is not necessary, but a plus. Postdoc will be based at The University of Arizona, Department of Entomology and will have the opportunity to interact with investigators at the BIO5 Institute and Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology.

The four specific aims of this proposal are:

1. Assess the transcriptomic nature of the distinct larval behavior
strategies among the D. mojavensis populations.

2. Determine the genetic architecture of larval activity by
performing a quantitative trait loci (QTL) mapping study.

3. Generate knockouts and transgenics (exchange alleles between
populations) of candidate QTLs using CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing.

4. Use the CRISPR-Cas9 knockouts and transgenics to quantify the
functional role of the candidate behavior QTLs in an ecological
context and examine the life history consequences of variation at
these loci.

The postdoc will be involved in all research aspects of the project,
and would have the possible opportunity to develop new projects in
consultation with Dr. Matzkin. Critical and independent thinking is very
important for this position, as well as having the ability to analyze
data, write manuscripts and proposal writing. Postdoc will interact
with the graduate and undergraduate students in the Matzkin lab at the
University of Arizona as well as having the opportunity to be involved
in outreach activities.

The candidate is expected to have a PhD in evolutionary biology,
evolutionary genetics/genomics, entomology or related field. A background
in quantitative and evolutionary/ecological genetics and/or molecular
and computational biology desired. Postdoc must have excellent writing,
communcation and critical thinking skills with at least 1-3 publications
(in print or submitted). Prior experience working with Drosophila a
plus but not necessary. Background working with CRISPR/Cas9 in model
or non-model system also a plus, but not necessary. The preferred start
date for the postdoc is late May or June.

Apply at http://uacareers.com/postings/18009. You will need to
submit a 1) cover letter briefly outlining the candidate's fit to the
position and future goals 2) curriculum vitae 3) contact information
(email and phone) for three references, preferably including doctoral
advisor and/or postdoctoral advisor (if relevant) and 4) no more
than three relevant publication PDFs. Please contact Luciano Matzkin
(lmatzkin@email.arizona.edu) if you have additional questions about the
position or visit our lab page, www.matzkinlab.org

Outstanding UA benefits include health, dental, vision, and life
insurance; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; UA/ASU/NAU tuition
reduction for the employee and qualified family members; access to UA
recreation and cultural activities; and more! The University of Arizona
has been recognized on Forbes 2015 list of America’s Best Employers
in the United States and has been awarded the 2015 Work-Life Seal of
Distinction by the Alliance for Work-Life Progress! For more information
about working at the University of Arizona, please www.whyua.com.


Dr. Luciano M. Matzkin
Associate Professor
Department of Entomology
BIO5 Institute
University of Arizona
520-621-1955
www.matzkinlab.org