********************GradStudentPositions******************** I am looking for a PhD student to study genomics of speciation in band-rumped storm-petrels (BRSP). BRSP represent an exciting case of repeated sympatric speciation (i.e. speciation with gene flow) by allochrony (separation of populations by breeding time). Initial studies in my lab documented the pattern of divergence. We now want to investigate the mechanisms. The project will entail application of functional gene analysis and comparative genomics to an existing large sample collection. Field work on barren tropical islands may be required. Applicants must have a background in evolutionary genetics. Practical experience with genomics and bioinformatics is an asset. The successful applicant will join a dynamic group of faculty and students studying ecology and evolution at Queen's University. Please send a resume or curriculum vitae, transcript, and contact information for two academic references to Dr. Vicki Friesen vlf@queensu.ca ********************Jobs******************** A position is available in Nick Goldman's group at the EMBL-European Bioinformatics Institute (near Cambridge, UK) for a Research Associate (post-doctoral level). The position is available from 1 April 2012 or later by mutual agreement, and is expected to be for 3 years in the first instance. Full details are viewable at http://ig14.i-grasp.com//fe/tpl_embl01.asp?newms=jj&id=47907&aid=15470 and http://www.nature.com/naturejobs/science/jobs/245341-Research-Associate-in-Molecular-Evolution and the job description is included below. Nick Goldman Nick Goldman tel: +44-(0)1223-492530 EMBL - European Bioinformatics Institute fax: +44-(0)1223-494468 Wellcome Trust Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridge CB10 1SD, UK // A Research Associate (Officer) position exists in Nick Goldman's research group (http://www.ebi.ac.uk/goldman) at the European Bioinformatics Institute (EBI) which is located on the Wellcome Trust Genome Campus near Cambridge in the UK. The group studies the evolutionary analysis of DNA and protein sequences, computational data analysis methods, probabilistic modelling of molecular evolutionary processes and statistical inference based on these models. We are particularly interested in applications of existing and novel sequence analyses in large-scale comparative genomics and Next (2nd- and 3rd-) Generation Sequencing, and benefit from association with other groups at the EBI (http://www.ebi.ac.uk/Groups) and elsewhere. The Research Associate will work with Nick Goldman and other members of the group on issues relating to evolutionary sequence or NGS analysis. It is expected that these would include phylogenetic methodology and biological applications. The position permits freedom for the postholder to be involved in research projects already under way in the group (for example, detection of adaptive evolution, analysis of patterns of DNA mutations and amino acid replacements, sequence alignment, comparative analysis of genome-scale sequences, methods to exploit NGS data) and to develop his/her own interests in related areas; the Research Associate will be expected to do both of these things. In addition to pursuing their research projects, a suitably experienced Research Associate will take responsibility for various tasks maintaining and developing the efficient operation of the group. These may include management and/or leadership of research projects of their own and the group leader's devising; preparation of grant applications, liaison with colleagues and collaborators both within and outside of EMBL; promotion of the group's work at EBI and elsewhere (including abroad); teaching at training events (including abroad); compilation of materials for reports and presentations; scientific supervision of other staff (including post-graduate students and junior visitors). The EBI is part of the European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL) and is Europe's leading provider of information services to biological researchers in academia and industry. For further information please visit www.ebi.ac.uk Qualifications and Experience The post holder will have a PhD, and further research experience in related fields will be advantageous. Necessary qualifications include: understanding of and enthusiasm for the questions molecular biologists need to ask of sequence data, experience of mathematical modelling and statistical data analysis, and scientific computer programming. A background in biology, mathematics/statistics, computer science or other technical disciplines, combined with subsequent cross-disciplinary experience, is the likely career path. Demonstrated previous success in the additional responsibilities described above, and aptitude for all of them, will be preferred. The successful candidate will have a good research record with previous publications in a related area of research. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills are required. Application Instructions Please apply online through www.embl.org/jobs Additional Information EMBL is an inclusive, equal opportunity employer offering attractive conditions and benefits appropriate to an international research organisation. Please note that appointments on fixed term contracts can be renewed, depending on circumstances at the time of the review. Note that special visa requirements apply to employees from non EU countries working at EMBL-EBI in the UK. The period of work does not qualify them for the Highly Skilled Migrants Programme. goldman@ebi.ac.uk ********************Jobs******************** The Department of Botany and Plant Sciences invites applications for a faculty position in plant evolutionary developmental biology ("evo-devo"). This is a 9-month, tenure-track position at the Assistant or Associate level. The successful candidate is expected to work at the interface between modern developmental, phylogenetic, and evolutionary plant biology. He/she will join an active and collegial department with broad interests in plant biology. The individual will be expected to establish and maintain an independent, vigorous, innovative research program, teach at the undergraduate and graduate level in the areas of evolutionary developmental biology, plant systematics, or developmental anatomy/morphology to complement the Department's existing strength in cell and developmental biology, and participate in departmental and interdepartmental undergraduate and graduate programs. The position includes an appointment in the Agricultural Experiment Station and will be available July 1, 2012. Applicants must hold a Ph.D. and postdoctoral experience is essential for candidates at the assistant level. Evaluation of applications will begin April 9, 2012 and continue until the position is filled. Interested individuals should submit 1) a curriculum vitae, 2) a statement of research and teaching interests, and 3) have three letters of recommendation sent to: Chair, Plant Evo-Devo Search Committee c/o Department of Botany and Plant Sciences 2118 Batchelor Hall University of California, Riverside, CA 92521-0124 Email: bpsrecruit@ucr.edu FAX: (951) 827-4437 For additional information on the Department and the campus visit http://cnas.ucr.edu/ and http://www.plantbiology.ucr.edu/. The University of California, Riverside has an active career partner program, and is an Affirmative Action equal opportunity employer committed to excellence through diversity. Jason E Stajich, PhD Assistant Professor Plant Pathology & Microbiology University of California, Riverside 951.827.2363 http://lab.stajich.org http://fungalgenomes.org http://fungidb.org twitter @stajichlab @hyphaltip @fungalgenomes @fungidb http://plantpathology.ucr.edu http://genomics.ucr.edu jason.stajich@ucr.edu ********************Jobs******************** Imperial College London Research Technician I am looking for a research technician to assist with a project using genome-wide association studies to investigate genotype-genotype interactions between Anopheles vector mosquitoes and human malaria parasites. This project is funded by the Medical Research Council and my lab is based in the Department of Life Sciences at Imperial College (South Kensington campus). The successful candidate’s duties will include rearing adult female mosquitoes in large quantities and growing infective human malaria gametocyte cultures. These cultures cannot be grown with antibiotics and so are prone to contamination, thus this task requires someone who has or will be able to acquire fastidious cell culture techniques. The technician will also assist with infectious feeds, mosquito dissections, and bench-work associated with dsRNA creation and RNAi testing of genes thought to affect mosquito susceptibility to the parasite. Salary will be £27,400 – £31,300 per annum. To apply for this position, please go to the following link https://www4.ad.ic.ac.uk/OA_HTML/OA.jsp?akRegionCode=IRC_VIS_VAC_DISPLAY_PAGE&akRegionApplicationId=800&transactionid=290155213&retainAM=Y&addBreadCrumb=S&p_svid=32863&p_spid=1497099&oapc=7&oas=EzvZKVoSP20cyb356NYkYQ For informal enquiries please contact me (Mara Lawniczak) at m.lawniczak@imperial.ac.uk Mara Lawniczak ********************Other******************** SUPPORT GRANTS FOR STUDENTS AND POST DOCS TO ATTEND the i5k COMMUNITY WORKSHOP May 30 and May 31, 2012, in Kansas City (Held in conjunction with the 6th Annual Arthropod Genomics Symposium, May 31 to June 2, 2012) Thanks to a generous grant from the American Genetic Association, we are able to offer scholarships to students and postdoctoral researchers to defray costs related to attending the i5k Community Workshop.  These awards will cover the registration fee for the i5k Workshop and two nights in the host hotel (three nights in case of hardship and for those staying to attend the Arthropod Genomics Symposium).  Participants will be responsible for their own expenses to travel to the meeting venue in Kansas City. To apply, please send the information listed below in a single PDF, attached to an e-mail, to Doris Merrill, dmerrill@k-state.edu , before midnight on Thursday, March 8. Information to include in your application: 1. Your name 2. Your position (undergraduate student, graduate student, or post doc) 3. A poster presentation title 4. Name of your host institution 5. Name of your mentor/advisor 6. Explain in one paragraph how your participation will increase the meeting¢s diversity and add to discussions. 7. Justify your financial need for this scholarship/grant funding. 8. Attach your biosketch or CV (max. 2 pages).   All applications will be reviewed by members of the conference committee, and awards will be announced by Tuesday, March 27. INSTRUCTIONS can be downloaded as a PDF at:  http://www.k-state.edu/agc/symp2012/images/SupportGrants-INSTRUCTIONS.pdf Additional information about the i5k Workshop can be accessed at: ( http://arthropodgenomes.org/wiki/File:i5kFlyer010312.pdf   or   http://arthropodgenomes.org/wiki/i5K ). REGISTRATION and additional information about the i5k Workshop and Arthropod Genomics Symposium can be found at:   http://www.k-state.edu/agc/symp2012 . A Symposium brochure/flyer is available at:  http://www.k-state.edu/agc/symp2012/images/Brochure-2012.pdf . THANK YOU for sharing this information with colleagues, post doctoral researchers and students. ***Please note:  Refunds will be issued to awardees who previously paid registration fees to attend the i5k Workshop.   Doris Merrill, dmerrill@k-state.edu Program Coordinator Arthropod Genomics Center Kansas State University dmerrill@k-state.edu ********************Other******************** Project Baseline is a nationwide, long-term, NSF-funded initiative designed to build a research-quality seed bank that will enable contemporary and future scientists to directly study evolutionary changes as plants respond to environmental change. We will do this by collecting and storing seeds from well-defined populations of relatively common, widely-distributed, and short-lived plant taxa. The seeds will be archived at the National Center for Genetic Resources Preservation, in Fort Collins, CO. Seeds will be released to researchers at defined (e.g., 5-10 year) intervals over a period of 50 years, to be grown in common gardens with their descendants, or subjected to other, more novel, types of phenotypic and genetic analysis. Because this project is designed to benefit the scientific community as a whole, we are soliciting suggestions for candidate species. If you would like to suggest a species or population, please fill out and submit the Species Suggestion Form at http://www.baselineseedbank.org/suggestionForm.html. The main criteria for sites are that they be ensured of long-term protection from major disturbance and that they be physically and legally accessible by collection teams. More information about this project may be obtained from our website: http://www.baselineseedbank.org  , or by contacting Karen Updegraff, Project Manager (kupdegra@d.umn.edu). Karen Updegraff PostDoctoral Associate University of Minnesota, Duluth Department of Biology 1035 Kirby Drive Duluth, MN 55182 218-726-7738 kupdegra@d.umn.edu ********************PostDocs******************** One or more post-doctoral fellowships are available to permit researchers with established molecular phylogenetics projects to work with Nick Goldman's group at the EMBL-European Bioinformatics Institute for periods of approx. 3--9 months. For further details of the work already undertaken in the group, see http://www.ebi.ac.uk/goldman. We are happy to consider applicants working on phylogenetic theory, or on applications with a strong theoretical component. We are particularly interested in ideas exploiting next generation sequencing data. Anyone interested in this possibility is encouraged to contact Nick Goldman directly, at goldman at ebi.ac.uk or at the address below. Nick Goldman tel: +44-(0)1223-492530 EMBL - European Bioinformatics Institute fax: +44-(0)1223-494468 Wellcome Trust Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridge CB10 1SD, UK goldman@ebi.ac.uk ********************PostDocs******************** Postdoctoral Position at Southern Illinois University in Annelid Phylogenetics An international collaborative research team is seeking a highly motivated and productive postdoctoral researcher to participate in a large-scale project on annelid phylogeny under an NSF Assembling the Tree of Life grant (WormNet II). The WormNet II team is reconstructing annelid phylogeny using a large-scale, multi-tiered approach encompassing both high-throughput genomic techniques and traditional PCR-based methods. The postdoctoral researcher will work at Southern Illinois University in the laboratory of Frank Anderson. The primary responsibilities of the postdoctoral researcher will be 1) generation of cDNA libraries from ~100 annelid species for high-throughput sequencing, 2) RT-PCR/PCR amplification of two conserved nuclear genes from ~300 species, 3) assistance with sequencing and analyses of two mitochondrial gene regions from 1500+ annelids, and 4) contributing to mentoring and coordination of projects of undergraduate and graduate students. The position requires an individual with a PhD and experience in molecular lab techniques (DNA/RNA extraction, PCR, sequencing), phylogenetics and invertebrate zoology. Candidates with previous research experience with annelids and/or bioinformatics will be preferred. The successful candidate will be expected to interact regularly with other WormNet 2 team members at multiple institutions in the U.S. and abroad. There will be opportunities for the researcher to pursue her/his own research interests within the context of the project. Funding will be available for travel to work with other WormNet II team members and for travel to national and international meetings. Terms of Appointment: Starting salary is $41,000 - $43,000, plus benefits. Funds are available for one year and are renewable for a second year, pending satisfactory progress. The optimal start date is August 15, 2012. For consideration, applicants must apply by May 1, 2012. Informal inquiries are encouraged prior to formal application. For formal application, please send 1) a cover letter, 2) a curriculum vitae, 3) names of 3 referees willing to provide a letter of recommendation upon request and 4) a brief statement of research experiences/interests via e-mail to Frank Anderson (feander@siu.edu). Funding and position is pending final, formal approval. Frank E. Anderson, Associate Professor, Department of Zoology, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, IL 62901 USA. LAB WEBSITE: http://www.zoology.siu.edu/anderson/. Frank Anderson ********************Conferences******************** 1st Joint Congress on Evolutionary Biology July 6-10, 2012; Ottawa, Canada www.evolution2012.org REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN (along with accommodation booking and talk/poster submission). The 1st Joint Congress is a merging of the traditional 'Evolution meeting' (the annual meeting of the American Society of Naturalists, the Society for the Study of Evolution, and the Society of Systematic Biologists) with the annual meeting of the Canadian Society for Ecology and Evolution, and the (normally biennial) meeting of the European Society for Evolutionary Biology. Along with a full range of topics in evolutionary biology, with the joint participation of the CSEE and the ASN, we look forward to increased representation of our ecologists. Important points: - DEADLINE FOR EARLY REGISTRATION DISCOUNT: 30 APRIL 2012 - Ottawa is a tourist city and accommodation is often in high demand. Booking accommodations early is STRONGLY RECOMMENDED. - Coming from outside CANADA? You WILL need a passport (INCLUDING IF YOU'RE DRIVING OR FLYING FROM THE USA). - Most people will not require a visa; check here to find out for sure: http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/visit/visas.asp#exemptions Highlights: - The meeting will be held at the state-of-the-art, newly opened Ottawa Convention Centre, situated in the heart of downtown Ottawa. - Child care will be available onsite at the congress venue. - Affordable residence accommodation at the University of Ottawa, only a short walk from the congress venue, along with an array of hotel options. - A plenary address and two symposia sponsored by each society. - Various optional pre- and post-congress workshops/symposia, along with the iEvoBio satellite conference (July 10-11). - Final congress dinner and farewell party (no speeches) at the spectacular Canadian Museum of Civilization. - Travel support available for graduate students and for researchers working in countries with low GDP (Note: deadlines imminent for the latter). For more details, visit www.evolution2012.org. We look forward to seeing you in July. Conference organizers: Howard Rundle (uOttawa) Andrew Simons (Carleton University) Howard D. Rundle, Associate Professor Department of Biology, 30 Marie-Curie Priv. University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, K1N 6N5, CANADA Ph: +1 613-562-5800 x2835; Fax: +1 613-562-5486; Skype: howarddrundle http://www.science.uottawa.ca/~hrund050 http://www.evolution.uottawa.ca www.evolution2012.org howard.rundle@uottawa.ca