Post Doctoral Research Associate

Postdoctoral Scientist

The selected candidate will work on the environmental control of human pathogens along the food system continuum with an emphasis on human pathogenic viruses. Specifically, the post-doctoral scientist will focus on i) the persistence of viruses within food production systems such as controlled environmental agriculture; ii) the efficacy of environmental sampling tools and protocols; and iii) the environmental control of foodborne pathogens within a variety of settings from farm to fork.

Responsibilities include:

• Conduct research in BSL-2 laboratory with a focus on the environmental control of human pathogens.
• Participate in the design and execution of applied research in transmission of infectious disease within the food system.
• Review scientific and applied literature to identify appropriate materials, statistical techniques, or methods applicable to the area of research.
• Train undergraduate and graduate students on bacterial and virological methods.
• Develop scholarly activity at scientific conferences and publications in peer-reviewed journals.
• Maintain laboratory, record-keeping, and laboratory equipment.

Highly motivated candidates should have a Ph.D. in food science or closely related field with a concentration in microbiology, virology, or a relevant field and experience in laboratory microbiology. Demonstrated experience in food safety systems, as well as previous experience working with zebrafish. Experience with retail food safety and environmental virology is desirable. A strong and proven record of scientific accomplishment by peer-reviewed publications is a must for this position.

Working knowledge of MS Office and Excel is essential as well as relevant statistical software packages (e.g. R, SAS, or JMP). High-level of skill in applying statistical principles to quantitative and qualitative data is required. Experience in grant-writing is desirable. Effective human relations skills are required to work with a variety of stakeholders and professional groups. Experience with diversity and ability to work well in a multi-cultural team setting.

Ability to effectively communicate verbally and in written form with a variety of audiences is required.

Salary Information:
Commensurate with education and experience

Required Documents to Apply:
Cover Letter/Letter of Application, Curriculum Vitae, List of three Professional References (name, email, business title), Unofficial/Official Transcript(s)

Optional Documents:

All application materials must be uploaded to the University of Arkansas System Career Site  Please do not send to listed recruitment contact.

The University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture may conduct pre-employment background checks on certain positions for applicants being considered for employment. The background checks may include a criminal background check and a sex offender registry check. Required checks are identified in the position listing. A criminal background check or arrest pending adjudication information alone shall not disqualify an applicant in the absences of a relationship to the requirements of the position.

Background check information will be used in a consistent, non-discriminatory manner consistent with the state and federal law.

The University of Arkansas is an equal opportunity institution. The University does not discriminate in its education programs or activities (including in admission and employment) on the basis of any category or status protected by law, including age, race, color, national origin, disability, religion, protected veteran status, military service, genetic information, sex, sexual preference, or pregnancy. Questions or concerns about the application of Title IX, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex, may be sent to the University's Title IX Coordinator and to the U.S. Department of Education Office for Civil Rights.

Persons must have proof of legal authority to work in the United States on the first day of employment. All application information is subject to public disclosure under the Arkansas Freedom of Information Act.

Constant Physical Activity:
Feeling, Manipulate items with fingers, including keyboarding, Repetitive Motion, Standing, Walking

Frequent Physical Activity:
Driving, Grasping, Pulling, Reaching, Sitting, Stooping, Talking

Occasional Physical Activity: N/A

Benefits Eligible:
Yes