Postdoctoral Research Associate in Marine Microbial Ecology

Postdoctoral Research Associate in Marine Microbial Ecology

• Posting Number: req
  27025
• Department:
  Molecular and Cellular Biology
• Department Website Link: (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..edu
• Location:
  
  Tucson Campus
• Address:
  Tucson, AZ USA

The Department of Molecular & Cellular Biology at the University of Arizona is dedicated to understanding the fundamental structures of life, exploring how biological molecules function within cells and how these processes are regulated through genetics. Our collaborative and innovative research community spans a broad range of disciplines. The Duhamel Lab studies the role of microorganisms in biogeochemical transformations, their adaptation to different environments, and their stress response.

As part of this dynamic environment, you will have the opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research and collaborate with a multidisciplinary group of scientists advancing discoveries in biology.

The Duhamel Lab at the University of Arizona (Marine Microbial Ecology and Biogeochemistry) invites you to apply for the role of Postdoctoral Research Associate in Marine Microbial Ecology. In this role, you will lead NSF-funded laboratory research (the P-Mix Switch project, in collaboration with Susquehanna University) investigating whether prasinophyte mixoplankton switch from photosynthesis to prey ingestion when phosphorus becomes scarce. You will design and conduct steady-state continuous-culture experiments with radioisotope tracers (14C and 33P) to quantify carbon and phosphorus acquisition from photosynthetic and phagotrophic pathways, together with physiological and biochemical measurements.

You will analyze, synthesize, and publish results; present findings at national and international conferences; and coordinate experiments with collaborators at Susquehanna University. You will also assist the PI with mentoring undergraduate researchers and participate in the project's education and outreach activities.

This is a full-time, 24-month postdoctoral appointment funded by a National Science Foundation Biological Oceanography award (the collaborative P-Mix Switch project with Susquehanna University), and is renewed annually contingent on performance and funding. The anticipated start date is early 2027 (negotiable). The position includes funded travel to present findings at national and international conferences and structured career development under the project's postdoctoral mentoring plan.

Work is performed in the Duhamel Lab and involves laboratory research with algal cultures, chemicals, and radioisotope tracers.

Outstanding U of A benefits include health, dental, vision, and life insurance; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; U of A/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; access to U of A recreation and cultural activities; and more!

The University of Arizona has been recognized for our innovative work-life programs. For more information about working at the University of Arizona and relocations services, please .

• Lead laboratory culture experiments with prasinophyte mixoplankton and bacterial prey by:
  • Designing, setting up, and operating exponentially fed batch (EFB) continuous cultures.
  • Monitoring steady-state growth.
  • Conducting experimental sampling.
  • Performing sample analyses in collaboration with a research laboratory technician and the PI.
• Coordinate experiments with the collaborating postdoctoral scientist and PI at Susquehanna University by:
  • Planning experiment timelines.
  • Hosting their research visits to Tucson.
• Conduct radioisotope tracer experiments (14C-bicarbonate, 33P-phosphate, and dual-labeled bacterial prey) to quantify carbon and phosphorus uptake from osmoautotrophic and phagotrophic pathways.
• Perform physiological and biochemical measurements (e.g., flow cytometry, prey ingestion assays, chlorophyll, cellular energy charge, alkaline phosphatase activity, nutrient analyses).
• Analyze and synthesize experimental data.
• Prepare and publish manuscripts in peer-reviewed journals.
• Present research findings at national and international conferences (e.g., ASLO Ocean Sciences).
• Assist the PI with data management and reporting, and in mentoring undergraduate researchers.
• Participate in the project's education and outreach activities (e.g., high school workshops and public science events).

The successful Candidate must complete the University of Arizona laboratory safety and radiation safety training to work with radioisotopes under the laboratory's…