Ph.D. Assistantship Studying Ecological Dynamics of Microbial Communities

The Bittleston Lab (https://www.bittlestonlab.com/) is recruiting a student for Fall 2024 to study ecological dynamics and coexistence in microbial communities. The PhD project is based in the aquatic ecosystems formed within pitchers of carnivorous pitcher plants and is partially funded by an early career grant from the Simons Foundation and an NSF CAREER award. The successful candidate for this position will work as part of a collaborative team of researchers across different universities and will be culturing bacteria, running molecular assays, analyzing data, mentoring undergraduates, writing, and presenting results.

Qualifications

Seeking a self-motivated, independent, and creative thinker who is passionate about ecology and aquatic or plant-associated microbes. The minimum qualification is a Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Ecology, Evolution, Microbiology, or a related field.

Preferred qualifications include: evidence of strong writing (e.g., grant proposals, publications) and quantitative skills (e.g., bioinformatics, coding, modeling); experience with microbial culturing and/or molecular assays; excellent communication skills; and an interest in understanding mechanisms of community assembly, coexistence, or plant-microbial interactions. A previous Masters degree in a relevant topic is not required, but is considered an additional benefit. Applicants who would add to the diversity and excellence of our academic community are especially encouraged to apply. Please address these points in your introductory email.

Stipend and Benefits

The position starts Fall (August) 2024 and includes support in the form of a graduate research assistantship with a salary of $28,000 for at least 2 years, followed by a graduate teaching assistantship. Both cover the full year (12-month) and also include tuition and fee waivers, and health insurance.

About the Program and Boise

Our Ph.D. in Ecology, Evolution, & Behavior is an innovative graduate program at Boise State University. The program brings together faculty from across multiple academic departments including biological sciences, geosciences, anthropology, and human-environment systems to offer relevant courses and provide unique mentorship and training opportunities. We have a strong quantitative course component and the position provides access to a network of valuable connections in academia, local relationships with federal and state agencies, nonprofits and NGOs, as well as international organizations, all dedicated to providing students with educational experiences for diverse career opportunities. To learn more about the EEB PhD Program, please visit: https://www.boisestate.edu/eeb/.

Nestled in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, Boise is the capital of the State of Idaho and is frequently featured as a top-ranked metropolis. The city has lots of opportunities for world-class outdoor activities year-round and a thriving arts and entertainment culture.

To Apply

Applicants should email both Dr. Leonora Bittleston (leonorabittleston@boisestate.edu) and Kathryn Lucas (kathrynlucas@boisestate.edu) before December 1st to indicate interest in this position before officially applying. The email should include your CV and why you are interested in a PhD in this research area in particular. Top candidates will be asked to formally apply. All admission decisions must be approved by the Graduate Dean.

Applications and required application materials must be submitted to the University by January 15th, 2024. Applicants are required to submit a cover letter that states qualifications and career goals, a CV, the names and contact information for three references. Applicants will also submit official university transcripts. More information about these requirements and the application process may be found at: https://www.boisestate.edu/eeb/prospective-students/.

Boise State University embraces and welcomes diversity in its faculty, student body, and staff. In addition, the Bittleston Lab is dedicated to increasing ethnic, gender, and socioeconomic diversity in STEM fields, and we believe that diverse perspectives lead to a stronger and more innovative society.