Deep DNA sequencing using massively-parallel, next-generation technology has enabled nearly comprehensive environmental surveys that can describe the different kinds of microbes in a community and their relative abundance. These descriptions of richness and evenness make possible estimates of microbial diversity, but the size of the required data sets pose enormous computational challenges. The rapidly expanding flow of information from next generation DNA sequencing platforms has fueled healthy debate about best practices for data analysis while at the same time building a user demand for tools that can address important ecological questions. The STAMPS course will promote dialogue and the exchange of ideas between experts in analysis of metagenomic data and offer interdisciplinary bioinformatic and statistical training to practitioners of molecular microbial ecology and genomics. Application Deadline: April 20, 2018.
A postdoctoral position in molecular microbial ecology is available at the Marine Biological Laboratory, Woods Hole. This NSF-funded collaborative project with the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution seeks to identify the nature of microbial predator-prey interactions using laboratory chemostats combined with RNA stable isotope probing, sequencing, and trait-based modeling. We are seeking an individual with expertise in molecular microbial ecology, including those with interests in microbial, viral, and eukaryotic dynamics, microbial food webs, and theoretical ecology. While the primary focus of the work will be in research, the postdoctoral investigator will have an opportunity to participate in educational and outreach activities associated with the project.
The Hibbitt Early Career Fellows Program provides talented scientists a rare opportunity: the chance to set up research programs of their own as an alternative to traditional postdoctoral positions. Recent Ph.D. (or equivalent degree) graduates with proven excellence in research will be given the necessary resources to work as P.I.’s, free from financial constraints and distraction by formal faculty responsibilities. As their research program matures, Fellows will be able to attract funding from federal grants or other sources. Applications are encouraged in research areas that can benefit from and contribute to MBL’s strategic strengths, in particular those relevant to marine and aquatic organismal biology and/or marine microbial diversity and ecology. Hibbitt Early Career Fellows will be based at the MBL full-time. They will receive an annual salary plus benefits and an additional research and travel stipend. Application review begins January 1, 2017.
