Postdoctoral Research Associate

Civil and Environmental Engineering

Full-Time

P21020

10/19/2020

Yes

The Alvarez Lab (https://alvarez.rice.edu/) and the Stadler Lab (stadler.rice.edu) at Rice University invite applications for a postdoctoral researcher position in the field of bioinformatics and microbial ecological network modeling using multi-omics datasets. The postdoctoral scholar will work on a National Alliance for Water Innovation (NAWI)-funded project focused on understanding membrane biofouling with unprecedented resolution (e.g., the transition from innocuous to detrimental biofilm) and mitigating biofouling in water treatment systems. The ideal candidate will have experience working with bioinformatics using omics datasets, including metagenome assembly, functional analysis (annotation, statistical analysis, and phylogenetics) and network analysis. In addition, the candidate will facilitate the setup and sampling of a testbed pilot reverse osmosis (RO) system that will be used to generate samples for analysis. We are looking for a creative, independent scientist who can work and communicate effectively in a collaborative environment.

We are seeking candidates who have demonstrated ability to lead and/or work collaboratively in teams comprised of individuals of diverse backgrounds, skills, and perspectives.

We seek greater representation of women, minorities, people with disabilities, and veterans in disciplines in which they have historically been underrepresented; to attract international students from a wider range of countries and backgrounds; to accelerate progress in building a faculty and staff who are diverse in background and thought; and we support an inclusive environment that fosters interaction and understanding within our diverse community.

The George R. Brown School of Engineering ranks among the top 20 of undergraduate engineering programs (US News & World Report) and is strongly committed to nurturing the aspirations of faculty, staff and students in an inclusive environment.

Rice University is an Equal Opportunity Employer with commitment to diversity at all levels and considers for employment qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, genetic information, disability, or protected veteran status.

Ph.D. or equivalent doctorate

Environmental microbiology, environmental engineering, or related discipline

No experience required.

- Ability to run bioinformatics software on high performance computing systems
- Familiarity with microbial physiology, biochemistry, and evolution
- Proficiency in analyzing and interpreting microbial metagenomics and functional genomic data
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills, as well as oral presentation skills
- Organization and time management skills
- Knowledge of modern research methods, data collection and analyses
- Ability to work in a collaborative environment
- Ability to work independently and professionally with minimal supervision and direction
- Excellent writing skills to prepare quarterly reports abs draft journal articles

Must be able to complete laboratory work

- May be required to work extended hours to meet research project requirements
- May be required to travel within Houston to collect water samples

As defined under the Texas Education Code and Rice Policy No. 425, this position is security sensitive and employment in this position is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check.

Position is not considered essential during a campus emergency.

Serves as a representative of the University, displaying courtesy, tact, consideration and discretion in all interactions with other members of the Rice community and with the public.

https://jobs.rice.edu/postings/24613

- Researches biofilm formation with unprecedented resolution and mitigating biofouling in water treatment systems
- Analyzes –omics data and ecological network modeling
- Facilitates set-up and sampling of testbed pilot-scale reverse osmosis (RO) systems for microbial community characterization (involves travel)
- Operates bench-scale RO systems for biofilm characterization
- Documents, analyzes, and maintains research data
- Assists with proposal development to obtain research funding
- Mentors, oversees, and/or trains junior research team members
- Publishes and presents research findings
- Supports project management and collaboration across institutions or disciplines
- Designs and implements research protocols; adapts new procedures, methods or instrumentation relative to research procedures
- Provides academic services (e.g., lectures, teaching classes) to the department as required
- Performs all other duties as assigned