Post-Doctoral Research Associate: Freshwater Microbial Ecology - UTK

Job Description

The Wilhelm and Talmy research groups in the Department of Microbiology at the University of Tennessee invite applications for a Postdoctoral Research Fellow to join an interdisciplinary project examining how episodic events shape competition, oxidative stress responses, and toxin production in the bloom-forming cyanobacterium Microcystis.

The successful candidate will contribute to controlled chemostat experiments, mesocosm studies, molecular and physiological analyses, and integration of laboratory results with predictive modeling. The project focuses on mechanisms linking short-term temperature fluctuations, oxidative stress, strain succession, and microcystin production in Lake Erie and related freshwater systems. The project also addresses the role of nutrient elements in selection for Microcystis. We seek applicants with a Ph.D. in microbiology, aquatic ecology, environmental science, biological oceanography, or a related field.

• Lead, plan, and carry out research associated with freshwater microbial communities in lab and field studies
• Collect, analyze data, and create reports on activities to present at lab meetings
• Generate peer‑reviewed publications on the outcomes of research
• Assist in the mentoring of undergraduate and graduate students in the research team
• Participate in the lab’s outreach/broader impact efforts in the community

• A Ph.D. in microbiology, aquatic ecology, environmental science, biological oceanography, or a related field
• Experience in one or more of the following: cyanobacterial culture, experimental design, flow cytometry, qPCR/transcriptomics, physiological measurements, environmental data analysis, or quantitative/modeling approaches
• Strong publication record, excellent communication skills, and interest in collaborative, cross‑disciplinary research

• Experience in molecular biology
• Experience in algal culture
• Experience in mathematical modeling

• Knowledge of basic biology and microbiology
• Familiarity with using computers to analyze data and reading scientific literature
• Techniques including algal culturing, molecular biology techniques (cloning, DNA/RNA extraction, PCR), light and fluorescence microscopy, and prevailing microbiology practices and procedures

Knoxville, TN – Onsite

• Anticipated hiring range: $62,500 – $65,000
• Find more information on UT Benefits here

• Resume
• Cover Letter
• Complete application with all requested materials should be submitted on or before August 1, 2026