Postdoctoral Associate

Job Description

The position includes both field and lab work, focused on research objectives to examine enzootic and experimental transmission of tick-borne pathogens.

The candidate will perform laboratory experiments in A/BSL3 biosafety containment, and also assisting in day-to-day running of PI BSL2 laboratory (reagent preparation, equipment maintenance, autoclave use, tick colony maintenance), processing of field samples, and conducting vector competence studies. Tasks include identification of field specimens using keys, molecular (DNA/RNA extraction & qPCR) or serological assays, blood-feeding hematophagous arthropods. The role will also involve tasks within ad-hoc projects, troubleshooting, providing training to students in the lab, grant-writing, and maintaining ethics and regulatory approvals.
Between spring to fall, the candidate will be involved in environmental sampling for ticks and small mammals across several counties in Virginia. Field site access requires driving a (manual shift) field vehicle up to several hours, and a driving license is essential. Candidates must be flexible, and able and willing to work long, sometimes monotonous, hours outside in inclimate weather, and organize students and any assistants on field methods and safety.

Required Qualifications

Ph.D. in vector biology, biomedical sciences, disease ecology or related field awarded no more than four years prior to the effective date of the appointment with a minimum of one year of eligibility remaining. Experience working safely within a biosafety containment lab environment (BSL2 level essential; BSL3 level preferred). Demonstrates understanding of disease ecology concepts, and pathogen research, with expertise in wet lab molecular skills. Fieldwork experience including small mammal trapping or vector surveillance, evidence of working outside, and undertaking potentially tiring or monotonous sampling efforts. Shows high degree of initiative, and ability to work independently, as well as to supervise others, and have excellent communication skills. Performs tasks to a high degree of accuracy and attention to detail. Valid Driving license.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience in BSL3 laboratory; Cell culture maintenance; Field mammal trapping experience;Ability to identify tick specimens to species level; Tick colony maintenance including blood-feeding.

Appointment Type

Restricted

Salary Information

Commensurate with experience

Review Date

09/25/2020

Additional Information

The successful Candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check

About Virginia Tech

Dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the boundaries of knowledge by taking a hands-on, transdisciplinary approach to preparing scholars to be leaders and problem-solvers. A comprehensive land-grant institution that enhances the quality of life in Virginia and throughout the world, Virginia Tech is an inclusive community dedicated to knowledge, discovery, and creativity. The university offers more than 280 majors to a diverse enrollment of more than 36,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students in eight undergraduate colleges , a school of medicine , a veterinary medicine college, Graduate School , and Honors College . The university has a significant presence across Virginia, including the Innovation Campus in Northern Virginia; the Health Sciences and Technology Campus in Roanoke; sites in Newport News and Richmond; and numerous Extension offices and research centers . A leading global research institution, Virginia Tech conducts more than $500 million in research annually.

Virginia Tech does not discriminate against employees, students, or applicants on the basis of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, or veteran status, or otherwise discriminate against employees or applicants who inquire about, discuss, or disclose their compensation or the compensation of other employees or applicants, or on any other basis protected by law.

If you are an individual with a disability and desire an accommodation, please contact Gillian Eastwood at geastwood@vt.edu during regular business hours at least 10 business days prior to the event.

Advertised: September 3, 2020
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