USFS Postdoctoral Research Opportunity in Conservation Genetics

Organization
U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)
Reference Code
USDA-USFS-2020-0180
How to Apply

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A complete application package consists of:

  • An application
  • Transcript(s) – For this opportunity, an unofficial transcript or copy of the student academic records printed by the applicant or by academic advisors from internal institution systems may be submitted.  Selected candidate must provide proof of completion of the degree before the appointment can start.  All transcripts must be in English or include an official English translation.  Click Here for detailed information about acceptable transcripts.
  • A current resume/CV
  • Two educational or professional recommendations

If you have questions, send an email to USForestService@orise.orau.gov.  Please include the reference code for this opportunity in your email.

Application Deadline
2/12/2021 3:00:00 PM Eastern Time Zone
Description

*Applications will be reviewed on a rolling-basis.

A postdoctoral research opportunity is currently available with the U.S. Forest Service (USFS), Rocky Mountain Research Station National Genomics Center for Wildlife and Fish Conservation, located in Missoula, Montana.

Under the guidance of a mentor, the participant will contribute to a Department of Defense-funded project using environmental DNA (eDNA) sampling to survey for rare species on, and surrounding, military installations in the western United States.

Research activities will include:

  • Implementing research on rare species relevant to western land managers, including the USFS
  • Discussing and coordinating research objectives with relevant resource managers
  • Assisting in the development of qPCR assays and optimize HT-qPCR chips for eDNA analysis
  • Helping refine and develop metabarcoding pipelines for the analysis of low-quality samples
  • Collaboratively analyze data and write peer-reviewed publications

Learning objectives for the participant include:

  • Gain experience working with land management agencies on applied conservation science
  • Develop molecular laboratory and bioinformatic analysis skills
  • Improve ability to design, interpret, and communicate applied ecological studies

For more information on the Rocky Mountain Research Station National Genomics Center for Wildlife and Fish Conservation, please visit https://www.fs.usda.gov/rmrs/ngc.  

Anticipated Appointment Start Date: Spring 2021

This program, administered by ORAU through its contract with the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to manage the Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education (ORISE), was established through an interagency agreement between DOE and USFS. The initial appointment is for one year, but may be renewed upon recommendation of USFS and is contingent on the availability of funds. The participant will receive an annual stipend of $60,000, which includes a health insurance allowance. Proof of health insurance is required for participation in this program. The appointment is full-time in the Missoula, Montana area. Participants do not become employees of USDA, USFS, DOE or the program administrator, and there are no employment-related benefits.

For more information about the USFS Research Participation Program, please visit the Program Website.

Qualifications

The candidate should have received a doctoral degree in one of the relevant fields, or be currently pursuing the degree with completion by the appointment start date.

Preferred skills:

  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills as demonstrated in scientific presentations and peer-reviewed publications
  • A background in molecular genetics including qPCR, amplicon sequencing, and bioinformatics
  • Experience designing and conducting ecology or wildlife research projects
  • Demonstrated ability to work professionally with diverse stakeholders
Eligibility Requirements
  • Degree: Doctoral Degree.
  • Discipline(s):
    • Environmental and Marine Sciences (2 )
    • Life Health and Medical Sciences (5 )
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