Postdoctoral position in Human Molecular Genetics/Epigenetics
A postdoctoral position (two years at least) is available in Connie
Mulligan’s lab at the University of Florida.
Two NSF-funded projects are currently ongoing and the successful
candidate can work on one or both: 1) Examination of DNA methylation
patterns in mothers and newborns from the Democratic Republic of Congo
(DRC) to test whether epigenetic alterations mediate the effects of
maternal exposure to stressors on fetal development and neonatal
health. Specifically, we are testing if epigenetic modifications
may mediate changes in gene expression in infants or mothers that
result from maternal trauma and material deprivation associated
with the war in the DRC. More broadly, we are interested in the
idea that behavior and complex phenotypes may be shaped by early life
experiences that alter gene expression through epigenetic alterations. See
https://www.landesbioscience.com/journals/epigenetics/2012EPI0162R-X.pdf
2) Investigation of the genetic and cultural underpinnings of complex
diseases that exhibit racial inequalities, using hypertension in
African-Americans as a model phenotype. We are combining the
analysis of genome-wide SNPs, genetic ancestry estimates, and
epigenetic variation with sociocultural data including experience
of discrimination and social network analysis. By combining
genetic and socio-cultural data, our goal is a more comprehensive
investigation of complex disease and racial disparities than
is possible with only one type of data. See related study –
http://www.plosone.org/article/info%3Adoi%2F10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0006821
Qualifications: A PhD and a strong background in generation of genetic
data (microarray analysis, DNA sequencing, SNP detection, etc.) and
data analysis (gene association analysis, regression analysis, genetic
ancestry estimation, linkage analysis, etc) are essential. Experience
generating methylation data or additional computational experience
(e.g. computer programming, simulation analysis, etc) is a plus. In
addition to the projects listed above, there are excellent opportunities
for the successful candidate to develop new lines of research as well
as productive collaborations outside the lab.
The University of Florida is a leading research institution with
a university-wide commitment to genetics research. The Department
of Anthropology (www.anthro.ufl.edu) has 30 full-time faculty with
diverse interests and a very strong biological subfield, with emphases
on molecular, paleo, and forensic anthropology. The department is one of
the top rated programs in the country (6th among public institutions, 11th
overall). The University of Florida Genetics Institute (www.ufgi.ufl.edu)
is an inter-college entity with a new research building intended to
enhance opportunities for collaboration. Gainesville is located in north
central Florida (away from the hurricanes!), with average temperatures
ranging from 45F to 90F. Beaches on the gulf and Atlantic coast are ~
1½ hours away.
To apply: via email, send a CV, a statement of research interests, and
the names and contact information (including email and phone) for three
references. Applications and inquiries should be addressed to Connie
Mulligan at cmulligan@ufl.edu.
Review of materials will begin immediately and will continue until
the position is filled. Start date is flexible and can start as early
as August, 2014. Salary is commensurate with experience. Position may
be extended for a total of three years. Informal inquiries prior to
submitting a formal application are welcome. AA/EOE.