Postdoctoral Scientist – Disease Ecology and Amphibian Conservation

Creative and motivated candidates are invited to apply for a Postdoctoral Scientist position working at the intersection of disease ecology and amphibian conservation at the University of Colorado, Boulder. The position will focus on exploring questions in one of two focal areas:

(1) Applying metacommunity theory to host-parasite interactions at multiple spatial scales, and/or

(2) Understanding the immunological mechanisms that mediate patterns of parasite coinfection and amphibian disease.

A wide range of parasites will be included in the study, but particular emphasis will be placed on the trematode Ribeiroia ondatrae and its effects on amphibian malformations. Previous field and/or experimental experience with host-parasite systems is essential, and a background in community ecology, landscape ecology and/or immunology is strongly encouraged. Experience with GIS and analysis of spatial data is preferred. Because funding for positions is derived from several sources, the selected candidate will have some flexibility in developing specific projects. Focal project areas include: using ecological ‘rules’ to understand patterns of parasite interaction within and among hosts, identifying the effects of host and parasite diversity on disease, and evaluating the importance of dispersal and species interactions in structuring host and parasite communities.

Target start date is spring or summer of 2010.

Interested applicants should send (as a single pdf) the following: a complete CV, contact information for references, and a brief statement of research interests related to this position (<2 pages) to Dr. Pieter Johnson (pieter.johnson@colorado.edu), Ecology and Evolutionary Biology Department, University of Colorado (see www.colorado.edu/eeb/facultysites/pieter).

APPLICATIONS WILL BE ACCEPTED UNTIL FEBRUARY 1ST, 2010.

2009-12-22