Postdoctoral Position in Comparative Genomics and Symbiosis Evolution

Institution: INRA, UMR IAM, Lab of Excellence ARBRE

Location: Nancy, France

Job Description: 

A postdoctoral researcher position is available immediately in the lab of Francis Martin at the Tree-Microbe Interactions Department at INRA in Nancy, France. Martin’s lab uses computational approaches to study how saprotrophic and symbiotic (mycorrhizal) fungi evolve and adapt to their environments. Ongoing projects fall into the following broad areas: 1) Studying the emergence of the symbiotic mutualism in fungal and tree species by phylogenomics; 2) Characterization of symbiosis-related genes by using comparative transcriptomics; and 3) Deciphering genomic signatures of fungal adaptations to carbon decay and sequestration in forest habitats by metatranscriptomics. More information about Martin’s lab.

Qualified applicant must have a Ph.D. in bioinformatics, computational biology, computer science, evolutionary biology or a related field with background and strong interest in molecular evolution of Fungi. The ideal candidate will already have some experience working with large genomic data sets from sequenced fungi or plants. This position requires a high level of proficiency in programming skills, and experience applying computational methods to genomic data is highly desirable. Applicants must possess good communication skills and be fluent in both spoken and written English (or French). Strong skills in the use of unix-based computer softwares, critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and the ability to work semi-independently are also required. The responsibilities will include pipeline development for analyses of next-generation data sets and utilization of high-performance computing facilities.

The successful candidate should anticipate contributing to a variety of ongoing collaborative research projects with the Joint Genome Institute, including the 1000 Fungal Genomes project and the Mycorrhizal Genomics Initiative, with teams across France, Europe and the United States. In addition to becoming a part of a vibrant research and educational environment, the incumbent can take advantage of professional development programs offered by Laboratory of Excellence ARBRE.

The initial appointment is for one year with the possibility of renewal for up to two additional years contingent upon performance and funding. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. Start date is July 1st, 2016 at the latest.

Interested applicants should send a single PDF file containing CV, one-page statement of research interests and contact information of three referees to Francis Martin at fmartin[at]nancy.inra.fr.