Research Associate - College of Earth, Ocean, and Atmospheric

College of Earth, Ocean, and Atmospheric Sciences
Oregon State University
104 CEOAS Administration Building  Corvallis, Oregon 97331-5503
Tel: (541) 737-3504  Fax: (541) 737-2064  www.ceoas.oregonstate.edu
Research Associate (PostDoc)
Position Announcement
Posting: #0014249
Position: The College of Earth, Ocean, and Atmospheric Sciences invites applications for a full-time (1.0
FTE), 12-month, fixed term Research Associate (PostDoc) position. Reappointment is at the discretion of
the Dean.
This Postdoctoral Research Associate (RAPD) position exists to work on funded research related to
riverine microbial ecology, metagenomics, and metatranscriptomics. This RAPD conducts research
related to the study of riverine bacterial genomics for a National Science Foundation (NSF)-funded
research project entitled "Linking microbial diversity, gene expression, and the transformation of
terrestrial organic matter in major U.S. rivers." The goal of this project is to understand linkages between
microbial genetic mechanisms in river ecosystems, climate, and landscape features that control river
environmental conditions, particularly dissolved organic matter (DOM) composition. This position offers
an excellent opportunity to develop skills in ecological research in the field and laboratory using a
combination of field sampling, mesocosm experiments, and laboratory analysis. For more information
about CEOAS and the Crump laboratory please see these websites: http://ceoas.oregonstate.edu
http://people.oregonstate.edu/~crumpb/index.html
The College of Earth, Ocean, and Atmospheric Sciences is internationally recognized as a leader in the
study of the Earth as an integrated system. It operates numerous state-of-the art laboratories and two
oceanographic research vessels, the 177-foot ocean-going Oceanus and the Elakha, a 54-foot coastal
research vessel. The College has an annual budget of more than $50 million, with much of the research
support coming from the National Science Foundation, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, National Aeronautics and Space Administration and other federal agencies. It has
approximately 104 faculty, 220 graduate students and 613 undergraduate students. Graduate programs
include Master's and PhD degrees in Ocean, Earth and Atmospheric Sciences; Geology; and Geography
and a Master's degree in Marine Resource Management. The college has undergraduate programs in Earth
Sciences and Environmental Sciences, with minors in Environmental Geosciences, Environmental
Sciences, Geography, Geology, and Oceanography.
Responsibilities:
75% Research: Characterize seasonal and interannual variation in microbial community composition
(prokaryotic and eukaryotic) in 36 major United States (U.S.) rivers, and track seasonal changes in
metagenomic and metatranscriptomic composition of bacterial communities in five large rivers using
Illumina sequencing. Coordinate a large-scale experimental study to identify active organisms and genes
expressed by freshwater microbial communities in five large rivers in response to DOM amendments, and
collaborate with co-investigators to analyze in detail subsequent changes in DOM chemistry caused by
microbial metabolism. Participate in other ongoing research projects in the Crump lab including research
on tundra ecosystems in northern Alaska and estuarine ecosystems in Oregon. Fly to field sites for field
sampling trips, collecting and processing water samples, and shipping samples to collaborators.
25% Publish papers. Summarize analysis and theory in manuscripts and submit to peer-reviewed
professional journals. Results will be presented at national and international scientific meetings.
Collaborates with scientists within CEOAS and at other institutions.
Working Conditions/Work Schedule:
Work performed primarily in a laboratory using molecular biology techniques, and in an office using a
computer. A typical office workday schedule is anticipated except during field sampling. Field work
could be in rugged conditions with inclement weather. This work entails driving and limited
lifting/pulling/pushing weights over 40 lbs (18 kg). An adaptable schedule is required during fieldwork.
Qualifications:
Doctorate (PhD) in microbiology, genomics, bioinformatics, limnology, oceanography, or related fields.
Field research experience and a strong background in microbiology, bioinformatics, biogeography, and
metagenomic/metatranscriptome analysis.
Interest in ecology and ecosystem science.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Ability to fluently speak, read and write English.
This position requires driving a University vehicle or a personal vehicle on behalf of the University;
therefore, the incumbent must successfully complete a Motor Vehicle History Check, possess and
maintain a current, valid driver's license in their state of residence, be determined to be position qualified
and self-report convictions as per OSU STANDARD 576-056-0000 et seq. Offers of employment are
contingent upon meeting all minimum qualifications including the Motor Vehicle Check Requirement.
Preferred Qualifications:
Experience in interdisciplinary research.
Demonstrated ability to lead research, publish, and communicate scientific results with peers.
A demonstrable commitment to promoting and enhancing diversity.
To Apply:
To access application instructions, go to https://jobs.oregonstate.edu Posting #0014249
When applying you will be required to attach the following electronic documents:
1) A resume/CV that includes the names of at least three professional references, their e-mail
addresses and telephone contact numbers.
2) A cover letter indicating how your qualifications and experience have prepared you for this
position.
Inquiries about the position may be directed via email to Dr.Byron Crump, 541-737-4369,
[email protected]
Closing Date: For full consideration for this position, your application must be received by April 19,
2015. Closing date is May 18, 2015.