Ph.D. position in microbial ecology, evolution, and systems biology

Application review begins October 1, 2025

WHO ARE WE?  We are the Quantitative Evolutionary Microbiology Lab
(https://qevomicrolab.org), led by Dr. Michael Manhart.  The QEM Lab
aims to understand the fundamental principles of evolution in microbes.
To this end we work at the interface of microbiology, ecology,
evolution, and systems biology using a combination of experimental,
computational, and theoretical approaches.  Our lab currently consists
of three postdocs, one Ph.D. student, one master's student, and two
undergraduate students.  We are based at Rutgers University in the Center
for Advanced Biotechnology and Medicine, an interdisciplinary life science
research institute.  We are also affiliated with the Rutgers University
Microbiome Program.

WHO ARE WE LOOKING FOR?  We are looking for a Ph.D. student to start in
the fall of 2026.  You should have a strong interest in studying the
fundamental biology of microbes using experimental and computational
approaches.  By fall of 2026, you must have a bachelor's degree in a
biological or quantitative discipline, including (but not limited to)
biology, physics, chemistry, or engineering.  We strongly encourage
applications from a diverse range of candidates, even if you don't
think you're a perfect fit.

For more information on what we look for in new lab members, please see
our lab's website: https://qevomicrolab.org/20240329.html

WHAT DO WE OFFER?  As a Ph.D. student in our lab, you will develop and
conduct research projects, present at local and international meetings,
write papers, and apply for funding.  Current major research directions
in the lab include the effect of ecological interactions on adaptation
in microbial communities and the evolution of microbial population
dynamics, but the position will allow for flexibility in developing
new directions in accordance with your interests and the broad goals of
the lab.  Your research will involve a combination of experimental and
computational components.

We offer competitive stipends and outstanding benefits, including
comprehensive health insurance.  Ph.D. students in good standing can
expect to receive full financial support for the duration of their
Ph.D. (5-6 years).

WHERE ARE WE?  Rutgers University is the eighth-oldest institution of
higher education in the US and now one of the largest, with approximately
20,000 graduate students and over 8,000 faculty.  Our center is based
on the Piscataway/New Brunswick campus in New Jersey, part of the New
York metro area and one of the most culturally and naturally rich parts
of the country.  We have convenient connections to the NJ Transit and
Amtrak rail networks as well as to Newark Liberty International Airport.

HOW TO APPLY?  You must first apply for sponsorship from our lab using
this link: https://forms.gle/38pPS1Ky84HBo78S9.

The first page consists of a few short questions about your background and
interests in the position.  The second page requests some biographical
information including your education history.  Do NOT submit other
application materials (cover letter, CV, reference letters, etc.) by
e-mail   we will request these later if needed.  We will interview
selected candidates by Zoom during the month of October.

If our lab decides to sponsor your application, you must then also apply
to an affiliated Rutgers graduate program by the following due dates:

- Molecular Biosciences/Microbiology and Molecular Genetics
  (December 1, 2025)
- Ecology and Evolution (December 1, 2025)
- Microbial Biology (December 15, 2025)
- Physics and Astronomy (January 1, 2026)
- Quantitative Biomedicine (January 15, 2026)

You must check any program-specific requirements (e.g., GRE exams)
before applying.

WHEN TO APPLY?  Apply by October 1, 2025 to receive full consideration
for our lab's sponsorship, and, if selected, apply to a specific
graduate program by the above dates.  If you have questions, please
contact Dr. Michael Manhart at mmanhart@rutgers.edu.

Michael Manhart <mmanhart@rutgers.edu>

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