[ES_JOBS_NET] Two Positions (Graduate Student and Postdoc) in Marine Microbial Ecology at University of Southern Mississippi

[Leila Hamdan]

Graduate Assistantship in Marine Microbial Ecology
The Hamdan Lab at the University of Southern Mississippi seeks an exceptional student to participate in marine microbial ecology studies in deep-sea habitats. This position will support independent research on benthic ecosystems in the Gulf of Mexico. The research assistantship will support (stipend, tuition, benefits) a highly motivated PhD or MS study for up to 3 years beginning Fall 2017. A student is sought to conduct research that investigates the lasting impacts of the Deepwater Horizon oil spill on shipwreck microbiomes. Of specific interest are studies that investigate microbial degradation of wooden-hulled 19th century shipwrecks.  This position will involve laboratory studies using molecular biological (DNA extraction, amplification, sequencing), bioinformatics, environmental microbiology, toxicology and the design of lab and seafloor experiments.

Successful applicants will have a BS or MS degree in biology, ecology, environmental science, chemistry or other relevant field. Applicants with previous experience in molecular biology, biogeochemistry or statistical analysis are encouraged to apply. Students are encouraged to participate in the planning and execution of oceanographic research onboard USM’s research vessel Point Sur for periods of up to two weeks at sea. The ability to work collaboratively with students, PIs and external researchers from multiple institutions and fields on interdisciplinary studies of the deep-sea is a must. Students are expected to participate in development of manuscripts for peer review.

To apply for the Graduate Assistantship, please submit via email to leila.hamdan at usm.edu:

  *    Cover letter outlining specific interest and experience in marine science and/or microbial ecology
  *    Curriculum vitae (include recent GRE scores and GPA)
  *    NOTE: Application for Fall 2017 admission at USM is required.

Postdoctoral Research Position in Marine Microbial Ecology
The Hamdan Lab at the University of Southern Mississippi seeks a qualified and highly motivated individual for a Postdoctoral Research Scientist position. This position will support research on the effects of oil spills on benthic ecosystems in the Gulf of Mexico. Specifically sought is a Postdoc to investigate the long-term consequences of oil and chemical dispersant exposure on the preservation of 20th century historic steel shipwreck in the deep biosphere.  The individual will design and implement ROV deployable seafloor experiments to monitor microbially induced corrosion.  Individuals with experience with microbiology and biogeochemistry, with specific knowledge and molecular biological techniques (DNA extraction, amplification, sequencing) are encouraged to apply. Proficiency in bioinformatics and statistical analysis is desired for this position as well as experience with analytical chemistry techniques, including hydrocarbon analysis. Applicants must have a Ph.D. in coastal or marine sciences, geomicrobiology, biogeochemistry or similar field. The hire will be encouraged to participate in the planning and execution of oceanographic research onboard USM’s research vessel Point Sur for periods of up to two weeks at sea, and contribute to student mentoring.  Excellent written and oral communication skills are needed, as well as a commitment to developing peer-reviewed manuscripts. The position will support the hire for 3 years, starting as early as June 2017.

To apply for the Postdoc position, please submit via email to leila.hamdan at usm.edu:

  *   Cover letter outlining specific interest and experience in the study of marine microbial ecology
  *   Curriculum vitae
  *   Contact information for three references

About the University of Southern Mississippi
The Division of Coastal Sciences is a research and graduate education unit within the School of Ocean Science and Technology, offering programs leading to the Doctor of Philosophy and Master of Science degrees. The Division is located at the USM Gulf Coast Research Laboratory (Ocean Springs, Mississippi), a marine laboratory featuring comprehensive basic and applied research programs in coastal and marine biological sciences. Research program support includes state-of-the-art laboratory facilities and instrumentation; a fleet of small and large research vessels, including the R/V Point Sur; the GCRL Museum collection; the Center for Fisheries Research and Development; NSF I/UCRC Science Center for Marine Fisheries, and aquaculture facilities including the Thad Cochran Marine Aquaculture Center.

Founded in 1910, The University of Southern Mississippi is a comprehensive doctoral and research-driven university with a proud history and an eye on the future. As one of only 34 institutions in the nation accredited in art, dance, music and theatre, we are a haven for creativity and artistic expression. A dual-campus university, Southern Miss serves students on campuses in Hattiesburg and Long Beach, in addition to five teaching and research sites in Mississippi. We are among U.S. News & World Report’s most popular universities and recognized by The Princeton Review for our commitment to sustainability. Our Center for Undergraduate Research affords our students meaningful research opportunities, and as a proven leader in innovation, we conduct transformative research that translates into real-world solutions. In the classroom or lab, on the playing field, or in the performance hall, we strive to have a positive impact not only on our students, but also the world around us. Further information is found at www.usm.edu.

Please see our websites for more information about USM, the Gulf Coast Research Laboratory, SOST, and studies in the Hamdan lab: https://hamdanlab.com, http://gcrl.usm.edu/,  https://www.usm.edu/school-ocean-science-and-technology/about


Leila J. Hamdan, Ph.D.
Associate Professor
Division of Coastal Sciences
School of Ocean Science and Technology
University of Southern Mississippi
703 East Beach Drive
Ocean Springs, MS 39564
Phone: 228-818-8011
Email: leila.hamdan at usm.edu<mailto:leila.hamdan at usm.edu>
Web: www.hamdanlab.com<https://www.hamdanlab.com>
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