West Virginia University Research Corporation Davis College of Agriculture, Natural Resources And Design is currently accepting applications for a Postdoctoral Scholar in Microbial Ecology.

About the Opportunity

The Morrissey Lab at West Virginia University in the Division of Plant and Soil Sciences (https://morrisseyem.wixsite.com/morrisseywvu) is seeking applications for a Postdoctoral Scholar in Microbial Ecology to study plant microbe interactions in bioenergy cropping systems. This position will work on a United States Department of Agriculture funded project to investigate how fertilization and drought influence the microbiome of Miscanthus x giganteus using cutting edge molecular techniques. The Postdoctoral Scholar will functionally characterize the microbiome of Miscanthus to understand how it supports plant productivity and drought tolerance. Applicants experienced with bioenergy microbiomes, plant microbe interactions, amplicon sequencing, soil biogeochemistry, and/or stable isotope probing are particularly encouraged to apply. The successful applicant will work in a collaborative research group with five PhD students, one postdoctoral research, and have opportunity to mentor graduate students and undergraduates in the Morrissey Lab.

This is a two-year position with the potential for extension depending upon performance and the availability of funding. The Postdoctoral Scholar in this position will be able to respond to inquiries and independently resolves matters of moderate to high complexity. Responsibilities require judgment, resourcefulness, and originality, but guidance will be provided through mentoring by principal investigators.

At WVU Research Corporation, we strongly believe in work-life balance and keeping time for things we love outside our work. WVU Research Corporation offers a comprehensive benefits package with a variety of options to suit your needs:

• 13 paid holidays (staff holiday calendar)
• PTO
• 403(b) retirement savings with a fully vested 3% employee contribution match, (Employees have the option of contributing an additional 1-3% of their earnings to the plan, which is also matched by the WVURC)
• A range of health insurance and other benefits
• Dependent Education Scholarship
• WVU Perks
• And More!!

What you'll do:

• Design and conduct field and laboratory research
• Process and analyze research samples by performing molecular and biogeochemical analyses
• Process and analyze research samples by performing tasks such as DNA extraction, ultracentrifugation, and polymerase chain reaction (PCR)
• Analyze data and interpret results, perform statistical tests
• Communicate research results by writing scientific manuscripts and presenting at conferences
• Assist with grant management and reporting and collaborate on grant proposals

• PhD, or successful defense of a PhD dissertation, in plant and soil sciences, biology, microbiology, environmental sciences, or a related discipline
• 0-6 months of laboratory experience related to plant microbiome research
• Demonstrated ability to perform genetic laboratory techniques, such as DNA extraction and PCR
• Demonstrated knowledge of genetic principles and concepts
• Demonstrated ability to analyze data, write effectively, and present results of scientific studies
• Ability to read and interpret documents such as scientific literature, safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals
• Demonstrated ability to operate a personal computer utilizing Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, and Power Point) and other software applications for reports, graphs, mailings and presentation development
• Demonstrated ability in scientific writing and presentation of research results
• Thorough knowledge of proper English, grammar, spelling, punctuation, and sentence structure
• Ability to speak effectively before groups of employees of the organization
• Demonstrated ability to perform statistical analysis
• Excellent organizational skills and a thorough knowledge of general office methods, procedures, and practices
• Ability to set, coordinate, and plan schedules, work independently, and collect, organize, and analyze information. Must have the ability to independently set priorities in a logical and efficient manner
• Ability to coordinate different tasks, determine relative importance of each, set deadlines, and complete projects in a timely manner and within set guidelines

The WVURC was created as a not-for-profit corporation in 1985 to support research (R1) at West Virginia University. We provide evaluation, development, patenting, management, and marketing services for inventions of the faculty, staff and students of the University.

The WVURC receives and administers funds awarded by external agencies for research and other activities and is responsible for helping protect intellectual property through patents, copyrights and licensing agreements for start-up companies based on University research.

Creating an inclusive, engaged, and dynamic environment is core to WVURC’s mission. We welcome candidates who can contribute a range of ideas, approaches and experiences.

West Virginia University Research Corporation is proud to be an Equal Opportunity employer. We value diversity among its employees and invites applications from all qualified applicants regardless of race, ethnicity, color, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, nationality, genetics, disability, or Veteran status.