Job Description

The Marquez lab will start at Virginia Tech's Department of Biological Sciences in Summer 2024, and is looking for two postdocs in evolutionary and developmental genetics.

We are seeking two postdoctoral associates to work on projects related to the molecular underpinnings of phenotypic evolution in poison-dart frogs. The postdocs will contribute to the lab's current research lines, which include unveiling the genetic and developmental mechanisms behind the correlated evolution of coloration and toxicity (i.e. aposematism), as well as the molecular basis of toxin sequestration and resistance in poison-dart frogs. We also develop molecular and functional genetic resources for poison frogs, such as tools for genetic manipulation (e.g. CRISPR, morpholinos) and live imaging, reference genome assemblies, and protocols for lab rearing and husbandry. At least one of the postdocs will be involved in functional tool development as part of an NSF-funded project in collaboration with colleagues at UC Berkeley and UHouston.

Beyond work on the lab's ongoing projects, there will be ample opportunity and flexibility to develop independent research within the scope of the lab's research program (broadly-defined). Postdocs will also be able (and encouraged) to pursue professional development beyond their research in ways that align with their own future career goals (e.g. teaching, mentoring, workshop participation).

The anticipated start date would be summer or fall of 2024 (negotiable), and both positions are funded for 3 years, renewed annually, with possibility to extend pending availability of funds. Salary will follow NRSA stipend levels, plus benefits. Positions are based at Virginia Tech, in Blacksburg, VA, with opportunities for collaboration with groups at several other institutions in the US and Latin America.

Required Qualifications

* PhD (or equivalent) in the biological sciences, or another relevant field. PhD must be awarded no more than four years prior to the effective date of appointment with a minimum of one year eligibility remaining.

* Research experience in genetics, developmental biology, physiology, or other relevant fields.

Preferred Qualifications

* Experience with functional genetics and genetic manipulation in amphibians.
* Experience in evolutionary genetics, evolutionary developmental biology, and morphology.
* Proficiency in molecular biology and/or bioinformatics, especially in the context of nucleic acid sequencing.

Appointment Type

Restricted

Salary Information

Commensurate with experience, but within range of $56,000 - $60,604

Review Date

January 31, 2024

Additional Information

Interested candidates should submit 1) a brief cover letter (1-2pg) highlighting their research
interests, relevant qualifications, and goals/aspirations for the position 2) a CV, and 3) contact
information for 2-3 professional references online at https://jobs.vt.edu, job #527860.
Applications submitted before the review date will be given full consideration. After this date
applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the positions are filled.

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

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.