UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS URBANA-CHAMPAIGN
DEPARTMENT OF ENTOMOLOGY
FUNCTIONAL GENOMICS OF DISEASE AND PESTICIDE SUSCEPTIBILITY IN BUMBLE BEES
POSTDOCTORAL POSITION
SALARY $43,000-$47,500 per yr.
Applications are invited to join the Cameron Lab in the Department of Entomology at the University of Illinois. Research will focus on experimental studies of the functional genomics and ecological effects of the fungal pathogen Nosema bombi, and its interactive effects with neonicotinoid pesticides, on bumble bee health. We are looking for expertise in the laboratory production and bioinformatic analysis of gene expression data (RNAseq, qPCR, etc.).
The collaborative research team includes Dr. Ben Sadd, Illinois State University, (https://faculty.sharepoint.illinoisstate.edu/bmsadd) and James Strange, Utah State USDA Bee Biology Lab (https://www.ars.usda.gov/pacific-west-area/logan-ut/pollinating-insect-biology-management-systematics-research/people/dr-james-strange/).
The research includes experiments on both declining and stable populations of bumble bees, with the broad goal of understanding causal factors of decline in U.S. bumble bee populations. We will examine how different species vary in susceptibility to pathogens and pesticides, investigating how these stresses can interact to the detriment of bee viability. An integration of colony-level, whole-organism, cellular, and transcriptomic approaches will address how susceptibility is linked to decline status. The postdoc will play a key role in setting up and analyzing RNAseq data. The ultimate goal is to identify expression and genetic diversity associated with infection and pesticide susceptibility. Major responsibilities will be to participate in experiments and develop the transcriptome datasets.
A strong bioinformatics or statistical genetics/population genetics background with a PhD degree in a relevant area is required. Communication skills are essential; programming skills are desirable.
To apply for this position, please submit your CV and a Statement of your interest in the position, including discussion of how your skills interface with the project’s research needs, along with names and complete contact information for three professional references.
APPLICATION DEADLINE 20 September 2017.
For informal inquiries please contact Sydney Cameron (scameron@life.illinois.edu).
The University of Illinois is an Equal Opportunity, Affirmative Action employer. Minorities, women, veterans and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply. For more information, visit
http://go.illinois.edu/EEO. To learn more about the University’s commitment to diversity, please visit
http://www.inclusiveillinois.illinois.edu. The University of Illinois conducts criminal background
checks on all job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent offer.