Deadline: Tue, 08/15/2023 - 12:00pm Employer: University of Vermont Job Field: Fisheries Job Type: Full Time Location: Vermont Location Detail: Burlington, VT Job Description: The USGS Vermont Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research unit is seeking a highly motivated applicant for a postdoctoral position in the Rubenstein School of Environment and Natural Resources (RSENR) at the University of Vermont. Candidates with interests in wildlife & fisheries management, fish diseases, bioinformatics, conservation genetics, and quantitative ecology are especially encouraged to apply. The postdoctoral scholar will use bioinformatics to ascertain if there are genes that make some Brown Bullhead (Ameiurus nebulosus) more susceptible to developing melanomas and if these genes are activated through interactions with other environmental stressors. In 2012, anglers in Lake Memphremagog started reporting an abnormal black skin pigmentation on Brown Bullhead. Electrofishing sampling indicated that approximately 30% of individuals exhibited these lesions, which were later diagnosed as melanomas. Hypotheses regarding the risk factors associated with these melanomas include exposure to environmental contaminants, ultraviolet light damage, genetics, viruses, and interactions of these stressors. During the spring of 2023 we collected genetic samples from Brown Bullhead with, and without, lesions throughout Lake Memphremagog. Using these samples, our primary objective is to determine if there are any genes that are more associated with brown bullhead that exhibit melanomas and if there is any evidence that the function of these genes can be affected by their environment. The primary responsibilities of the postdoctoral scholar will include conducting the bioinformatic analyses, coordinating communication between research collaborators, and contributing to the dissemination of results through manuscripts, presentations, and reports. Qualifications: Applicants require a Ph.D. degree in biology, ecology, genetics, fisheries, or a related field and a record of publishing within their field. The position has an anticipated start date of September 15, 2023, although this is negotiable. This is a one-year appointment with the potential for an extension based on satisfactory performance. Miscellaneous: The Henderson Lab, and the Rubenstein School of Environment and Natural Resources, are deeply committed to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in our field, and especially welcome applicants who contribute to the variety of backgrounds, opinions, and approaches within the lab. We recognize that diversity comes in many forms (e.g., income, race, ethnicity, religion, gender, gender identity, LGBTQIA+, disabilities) and we are dedicated to creating a welcoming and supportive environment for everyone. Salary: $56,484 How to Apply: https://www.uvm.edu/human-resources/postdoctoral-associates-fellows-overview To apply, please submit a cover letter, CV, and transcripts to Dr. Mark Henderson (mark.henderson@uvm.edu). Review of applications will begin on August 15th and continue until the position is filled.
