If you have any questions about the position or our application process, reach out to us at recruiting-u@smith.edu.

Job Description

JOB SUMMARY

Postdoctoral Positions: Bioinformatic and single-cell 'omics approaches for studying genome evolution in microbial eukaryotes

The Department of Biological Sciences at Smith College invites applications for two benefits eligible postdoctoral positions, focusing on genome evolution in microeukaryotes (aka protists), to begin on or after January 1, 2024. The bulk of the work will focus on bioinformatic analyses of data generated in the lab from foraminifera and ciliates. The initial appointment is for one year, with the possibility of extending for additional years. The position will be housed in Professor Laura Katz's laboratory in the Department of Biological Sciences (https://www.science.smith.edu/katzlab/).

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

The aims of this project include characterizing genome architecture in poorly-studied clades and reconstructing the evolutionary history of both genes and species (i.e. species delimitation).

Research in the Katz lab aims to elucidate principles of the evolution in eukaryotes through analyses of microbial groups, and to assess how these principles apply (or fail to apply) to other organisms. Currently we focus on three interrelated areas: (1) characterizing evolutionary relationships among eukaryotes using single-cell 'omics' and phylogenomics; (2) exploring the evolution of germline vs somatic genomes; and (3) describing the phylogeography and biodiversity of protists in local environments (bogs, fens, coastal habitats).

OTHER FUNCTIONS

All employees are expected to take appropriate actions to support a diverse workforce and participate in the College's efforts to create a respectful, inclusive, and welcoming work environment.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS (knowledge, skills, education, experience, certifications, licenses)

Minimum qualifications include a PhD in a relevant field, knowledge of the diversity of eukaryotic microorganisms, and familiarity with basic bioinformatic tools.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

The ideal candidate will: 1) be a productive researcher with interests in both biodiversity and phylogenomics of microorganisms; 2) have experience identifying and isolating diverse protists; 3) have knowledge of bioinformatic and/or phylogenetic tools; 4) have excellent communication and interpersonal skills; and 5) be interested in collaborating with graduate and undergraduate students in the laboratory.

SKILLS

Required skills include basic microscopy (light and ideally fluorescence), bioinformatics (i.e. familiarity with existing phylogenomics tools and basic Python language) and the ability to produce peer-reviewed publications in a timely manner.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Please contact Laura Katz (lkatz@smith.edu) with any questions.

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About Smith College

Located in Northampton, MA, Smith College is one of the largest women's colleges in the country and is dedicated to excellence in teaching and research across the liberal arts. A faculty of outstanding scholars interact with students in small classes, as advisors, and through student-faculty research projects. The College is a member of the Five College Consortium with Amherst, Hampshire and Mt. Holyoke Colleges, and the University of Massachusetts Amherst. Students cross-enroll and faculty cross-teach across the Five Colleges.

As set forth in our mission and values, Smith College is committed to promoting a culture of equity and inclusion among students, staff and faculty. The College will not discriminate in employment on the basis of age, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, genetic information, age, veteran status, physical or mental disability, or any other classification protected by law. Smith College is an equal opportunity employer and complies with all state and federal laws that prohibit discrimination.