What power is there in having access to thousands of genomes over a single genome of a species? The Wright Lab (http://wrightlabscience.com) is seeking an enthusiastic postdoctoral scholar to answer this question using thousands of microbial genomes. The successful candidate will develop and evaluate new algorithms for comparative genomics through the lens of evolution. The project will involve building upon the R package DECIPHER (http://DECIPHER.codes/) to elucidate genomic adaptations in thousands of genomes from bacterial pathogens exposed to antibiotics. This research provides the opportunity to work at the forefront of bioinformatics to help combat antibiotic resistance in the clinic.
The Wright Lab is a rapidly growing multi-disciplinary hybrid wet/dry lab at the University of Pittsburgh. We are affiliated with the Department of Biomedical Informatics, and collaborate closely with other experimental evolution and microbiology labs on campus. Our lab offers opportunities to gain experience giving presentations, programming, lecturing, mentoring students, and writing proposals and papers. We are part of a broader effort to make the University of Pittsburgh a leader in applying evolution to the improvement of medicine. The university consistently ranks in the top 10 nationally for biomedical research funding. Pittsburgh, PA is often voted the most livable city in the US featuring eclectic neighborhoods, diverse culinary and entertainment opportunities, as well as easy access to natural areas (http://www.coolpgh.pitt.edu/).
QUALIFICATIONS: Qualifications for this position include a PhD in computer science, bioinformatics, microbiology, or a related field. Ideal candidates would have publications demonstrating experience with code development, bioinformatics, and/or comparative genomics. Expertise in any programming language is sufficient, but a willingness to learn C and R is a necessity. The candidate should 1) be fluent in written and spoken English, 2) be able to work independently and as a member of a team, 3) be hard-working, motivated, and eager to learn, and 4) be interested in developing a career in bioinformatics or genomics.
TO APPLY: Please email applications (including cover letter, curriculum vitae, & names and email addresses for 3 professional references) to Dr. Erik Wright (eswright@pitt.edu). The position is available starting as early as May 2019. Candidates must be willing and able to apply to the postdoctoral research fellowship (https://www.dbmi.pitt.edu/training-programs/) available in the Department of Biomedical Informatics and, therefore, must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.
