EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

December 3, 2014

14-113             POSTDOCTORAL  SCIENTIST  – GENETICS

Searching for an enthusiastic postdoctoral researcher to work on single cell genomics of the malaria parasites, Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax. Plasmodium parasites are of huge medical importance, causing ~700,000 deaths per year and millions of infections. However, we know little about how genetic diversity of parasites within an infection partitions between individual parasite genomes, or how this impacts disease pathogenesis and treatment. This work will explore this “black box” in malaria research. It will be a cross-disciplinary project which combines fluorescence activated cell sorting, single genome sequencing and statistical genetics approaches to ask key questions about within-host variation of malaria infections in Malawi and Thailand. The postdoctoral scientist will report to Dr. Ian Cheeseman.

RELEVANT PUBLICATIONS

Nair S, Nkhoma SC, Serre D, Zimmerman PA, Gorena K, Daniel BJ, Nosten F, Anderson TJ, Cheeseman IH. Single-cell genomics for dissection of complex malaria infections. Genome Res 2014; Jun; 24(6):1028-38. PMCID: PMC4032849

Nkhoma SC, Nair S, Cheeseman IH, Rohr-Allegrini C, Singlam S, Nosten F, Anderson TJ: Close kinship within multiple-genotype malaria parasite infections. Proc Biol Sci 2012; 279(1738):2589-2598. PMCID: PMC3350702.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE/SKILLS:  REQUIRED: Ph.D. in genetics, parasitology, molecular biology or a related discipline. The applicant is expected to work closely with the PI on this project, though there will be opportunities to pursue independent research projects. Preferred: Applicants with strong laboratory skills and experience in flow cytometry, cell culture or molecular biology, though training will be available in the approaches used in this project.

POTENTIAL HAZARDS:  This position may involve exposure to cryogenics, bulk cleaning products, and infectious materials (BSL-2). Participation in a medical monitoring and surveillance program is required.  Safety training and protective clothing, equipment and supplies will be provided.

OTHER:  This is a full-time salaried (exempt) position.  Texas Biomedical Research Institute business hours are Monday through Friday - 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Apply online at http://www.txbiomed.org/about/employment. Application packets are accepted electronically or in hard copy.  A completed application packet is a requirement for all positions.  Incomplete applications will not be accepted.  EOE

Type of employment: Full Time