The Hill Lab at UMass Boston (https://blogs.umb.edu/nichola-hill/) seeks a postdoc to study the ecological and molecular determinants of infectious disease spillover. The position requires expertise in one or more of the following areas: i) disease ecology and evolution, ii) epidemic surveillance of animal or human populations, iii) genomic or bioinformatic analysis of pathogen traits, or iv) molecular virology.

The successful candidate will be expected to perform a range of wet and/or dry lab assays, coordination of laboratory and field-based studies, supervision of undergraduate and graduate students from diverse backgrounds, writing manuscripts and communicating the results at national and international conferences. The postdoc will also be instrumental in assisting the PI to build and grow the newly-formed lab.

Current projects include: 1) understanding the evolution and ecology of highly pathogenic avian influenza, 2) characterizing the impacts of the climate crisis on the emergence of viral diseases, 3) assessing drivers of human-animal transmission of SARS-CoV-2 (Covid-19), and 4) investigating host susceptibility of wild and domestic animals using immunogenetics. The position has an ideal start date of September 2022 and is for one year with the possibility of renewal depending on performance and funding.

Required Qualifications: A PhD in either Ecology, Microbiology, Virology or other related disciplines before starting the position is required. Experience with molecular techniques (e.g., nucleic acid extraction, real time-PCR, primer design, sequencing) and bioinformatic data analysis. Proficiency in basic virology ‘wet lab’ skills such as cell culture, phenotypic assays and serology is preferred, but not required. Experience in integrating data from field observations and experiments to answer questions related to disease spillover from reservoirs to novel hosts. Applicants should have demonstrated knowledge of concepts and theories related to disease ecology and evolution, with preference for viruses or other fast-evolving pathogens. Strong publication record is also necessary, and evidence of effective science communication skills.

Application & Instructions: Interested candidates should contact Dr. Hill at nichola.hill@umb.edu with the following information:

• Cover letter indicating current and future research interests;
• Expected starting date;
• Curriculum vitae;
• Names and contact information for 2 or 3 references.