Job Description

SARS-CoV-2 infection in humans coupled with human-animal interactions have led to multiple transmission events between humans and wildlife. Recent studies have also found evidence of viral transmission within wildlife populations. The Hoyt and Langwig Labs are conducting a study to understand the ecological and evolutionary drivers of SARS-CoV-2 transmission in wildlife communities.

We seek a Postdoctoral Associate to lead and coordinate field efforts on SARS-CoV-2 in small mammals and mesocarnivores. The Postdoc will be responsible for initial training and oversight of technician teams that conduct regular sampling, assist with permitting and site coordination, help with animal care and use protocols, analyze data, and lead manuscripts. There are substantial opportunities to design independent projects and build on new ideas within the wildlife SARS-CoV-2 system.

Specific field duties may include capture and marking of mammals (e.g. mice, opossums, skunks, raccoons, squirrels) in live traps. Applicants should have previous experience trapping and handling small mammals or mesocarnivores. Furthermore, duties include chemical immobilization of animals, collection of serum, and collection of swabs. A background or strong interest in disease ecology is preferred.

The Hoyt and Langwig labs are housed in an infectious disease collaborative space, which provides an environment for interdisciplinary research on environment-infectious disease relationships. The position is for onsite work only and includes a competitive salary and fringe benefits.

Required Qualifications

* Ph.D. in biology, ecology, wildlife or a related field
* Previous experience handling small mammals or mesocarnivores and setting live-traps and the ability to conduct similar fieldwork in the future
* Strong skills in organization, communication, and teamwork

Preferred Qualifications

* Demonstrated ability to produce peer-reviewed publications
* Experience with animal anesthesia/chemical-immobilization
* Prior experience collecting blood from animals

Appointment Type

Restricted

Salary Information

Commensurate with experience but within budget maximum

Review Date

November 15, 2023

Additional Information

Interested candidates should submit (1) a cover letter of up to two pages, highlighting the required and additional qualifications relevant to the proposed position, (2) a CV, and (3) contact information for three professional references, upon applying online at www.jobs.vt.edu . Questions about the position can be directed toward Dr. Joseph Hoyt at jrhoyt@vt.edu.

The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.

PhD awarded no more than four years prior to the effective date of appointment with a minimum of one year eligibility remaining.

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 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 , a , a college, , and . The university has a significant presence across Virginia, including the in Northern Virginia; the Health Sciences and Technology Campus in Roanoke; sites in Newport News and Richmond; and numerous and . A leading global research institution, Virginia Tech conducts more than $500 million in research annually.