Postdoc genético estudiando plasticidad del desarrollo en nemátodos

Postdoctoral position: Genetics and evolution of developmental plasticity, Ragsdale Lab, Indiana University

A postdoctoral position is available in the Ragsdale laboratory
(http://www.indiana.edu/~ragslab/), Department of Biology, Indiana
University, Bloomington. Our lab investigates the genetic regulation
and evolution of developmental plasticity, specifically a polyphenism
that involves novel morphological traits. The reference species for this
research is the nematode Pristionchus pacificus, an emerging model system
for evolutionary developmental genetics, which our lab studies using
forward and reverse genetics, transgenics, and genome-wide approaches.

Pristionchus pacificus and other species in its family (Diplogastridae)
show discrete developmental plasticity, or polyphenism, in their feeding
structures. This allows them to assume alternative ecological roles:
specifically, they often develop into either a microbe-feeding or
predatory morph in response to different environmental cues. Recent work
has characterized several of the genes that make up a “switch” for
this developmental decision in P. pacificus, providing a genetic model
for an animal polyphenism. Moreover, P. pacificus is embedded in a solid
phylogenetic infrastructure of species characterized by polyphenism,
its secondary loss, and a broad range of feeding morphologies. Given the
laboratory tractability of species of Pristionchus and closely related
groups, this system enables the discovery of how genetic factors and
their interactions evolve to modify plasticity and plastic traits.

The position is part of a program to study the evolutionary origins
and consequences of a genetic mechanism for polyphenism. The project
thus offers opportunities to use, for example, comparative functional
genetics, including multiple “satellite” species to P. pacificus,
and molecular population genetics. A Ph.D. in evolutionary biology,
developmental biology, or a related field is required. The position will
be funded for two years, with the potential to extend for an additional
year. Salary will be commensurate with experience, and full benefits
are included.

To apply, please submit (i) a letter of application, (ii)
a full CV, (iii) a statement of research interests, and (iv)
contact information for three references electronically to
(http://indiana.peopleadmin.com/postings/8149). For best consideration,
please apply by August 30, 2019. Expected start date can be as soon as
October 1, 2019 but is flexible. Inquiries about the position can be
directed to Erik Ragsdale (ragsdale@indiana.edu).

Bloomington is a vibrant college town located in scenic southern Indiana,
close to several natural parks and wilderness areas, and it enjoys a
local culture exceptionally rich in music, art, and theater.

The College of Arts and Sciences is committed to building and supporting
a diverse, inclusive, and equitable community of students and scholars.

Indiana University is an equal employment and affirmative action employer
and a provider of ADA services. All qualified applicants will receive
consideration for employment without regard to age, ethnicity, color,
race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression,
genetic information, marital status, national origin, disability status
or protected veteran status