Post-doctoral position: Understanding genomic, microbiological, and ecological bases of invasiveness and adaptive capacities of mosquitoes

A 18 months postdoctoral position funded by Biodiversa Grant is available on 15 November 2015 for an enthusiastic and highly motivated postdoctoral researcher in the research group « Dynamique Microbienne et Transmission Virale » in the laboratory of Microbial Ecology at the University of Lyon, France.

For more information about our ongoing research and publication, see http://www.ecologiemicrobiennelyon.fr/spip.php?rubrique33&lang=en

Area of research. The postdoctoral project will take place in the framework on an European Project GC-INVAMOFECT (http://gc-invamofect.univ-lyon1.fr/index.php/en/). This project deals with understanding genomic, microbiological, and ecological bases of invasiveness and adaptive capacities of mosquitoes to temperate vs tropical regions, in the context of global changes and risk of emerging vector-borne diseases in Europe. The goal is to use genotype x environment interaction approach to investigate the effect of host genome and its microbiome on mosquito invasion/adaptation and vector capacity, taking into account anthropogenic activities and global changes. Specific objectives will be (i) to identify the diversity and potential functions of the bacterial microbiota associated with invasive wild mosquitoes in Europe (in particular Aedes albopictus and Ochlerotatus japonicus) and (ii) to investigate whether microbes facilitate or constrain adaptation to a changing environment (temperature, anthropogenic activities). This second part of the work will be done in collaboration with the Rovaltain Research Company (http://rovaltainresearch.com/welcome/).

Qualifications. Candidates should hold a PhD-degree within the area of microbial ecology and entomology. Experience in bioinformatic for the development and execution of high throughput data analysis (Miseq 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing) is pivotal. However, skills in the field of molecular microbiology and the handling of insects, especially mosquitoes, would also be appreciated. The candidates should document a track record of scientific publications, and have the ability to work autonomously as well as in a team. Strong communication skills, and the ability to integrate with an interdisciplinary research program are essential.

Application must be uploaded no later than October 1st, 2015. The position is to be started as soon as possible and no later than November 15, 2015.

Interested applicants should send a CV, summary of previous research, at least two letters of reference that demonstrate academic / scientific excellence to Dr Claire Valiente Moro (claire.valiente-moro@univ-lyon1.fr) and Dr Patrick Mavingui (patrick.mavingui@cnrs.fr).