The Weinstein Lab at Utah State University is seeking a Postdoctoral Fellow (Postdoctoral Fellow I) to assist in developing and conducting research on the structure and stability of parasite associated microbial communities in mammalian hosts. The lab integrates experimental model systems, field work and molecular approaches to examine the complex interactions between vertebrates, symbionts and their environment. In addition to working in close collaboration with Dr. Weinstein and current lab members, the Postdoctoral Fellow will also be encouraged to develop independent research and outreach projects within the scope of the lab.

The Weinstein Lab is a collaborative and interdisciplinary group. We aim to create a diverse and welcoming environment that supports creative and curiosity-driven science while promoting the professional, scientific and personal growth of every lab member. For more information, please visit the lab website at www.sarabweinstein.com.

• Participate in research planning and proposal writing.
• Carries out research as agreed upon with a faculty member or supervisor.
• Participates in the preparation of reports and manuscripts for publication as co-author or sole author.
• Remains competent and current through self-directed professional reading, developing contacts with colleagues, attending professional development courses, and attending training and/or seminars as directed by the faculty member or department head.
• Assist in the recruitment, training and mentoring of undergraduate and graduate students.
• Assists in maintain the laboratory and its daily operation, including managing undergraduate researchers, assisting graduate students and senior personnel, managing laboratory budgets, ordering supplies, and maintaining equipment.
• Contributes to a work environment that encourages knowledge of, respect for, and development of skills to engage with those of other cultures or backgrounds.

Minimum Qualifications:

• An earned Doctorate in Molecular Biology, Molecular Ecology, Microbiology, Parasitology, or related field by the time of appointment.
• Experience conducting original research as demonstrated through publications in peer-reviewed scientific journals.
• Evidence of effective written and verbal communication skills are required.
• The ability to develop knowledge of, respect for, and skills to engage with those of other cultures or backgrounds is required.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in microbiology or parasitology, with strong lab skills (e.g., culturing, PCR, NGS, ELISA) relevant to these fields.
• Experience working with Mus in a laboratory setting.
• Expertise in statistical analyses, bioinformatics, and/or genomics.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Ability to interpret and analyze data.
• Knowledge of laboratory techniques and safety.
• Skilled in statistical analysis.
• Knowledge of the principles of the publication and peer review process.
• Ability to present research in both spoken and written formats.
• Ability to teach concepts to students of various backgrounds.
• Organizational and project management skills.
• Ability to implement existing methodology and develop new approaches to experiments.
• Skilled with computers and programs relevant to the research.
• Ability to operate specialized scientific equipment as required.

Along with the online application, please attach:

1. Curriculum Vitae to be uploaded at the beginning of your application in the Candidate Profile under “Resume/CV”
2. Cover Letter to be uploaded at the beginning of your application in the Candidate Profile under “Resume/CV”
   • Cover Letter should describe your current research, experience with the required and preferred techniques, and description of your future research interests indicating how they align with the research goals of the lab
3. Contact Information for three professional references willing to provide letters of reference.

Applications received by August 31st, 2023 will be given priority.

**Document size may not exceed 10 MB.**

Employees work indoors and are protected from weather and/or contaminants, but not, necessarily, occasional temperature changes.  The employee is regularly required to sit and often uses repetitive hand motions.

Founded in 1888, Utah State University is Utah’s premier land-grant and space-grant university, with a strong commitment to excellence, access, and inclusion. USU serves approximately 27,500 students throughout the state at three residential campuses, eight statewide campuses, and 23 education centers. USU Online has served students from all 50 states and 55 countries for over 25 years, and USU Extension provides outreach and service to all counties in Utah.  

As a land-grant university, USU engages communities and empowers people to lead successful lives of involvement, innovation, and impact. As an R1 research institution, USU provides a high-quality undergraduate and graduate education at an affordable price. Washington Monthly has consistently ranked USU in the top 10 among public universities for contribution to social mobility, research, and public service.  

Utah State is committed to cultivating a diverse, equitable, and inclusive community where different perspectives, values, cultures, and identities are acknowledged, welcomed, and valued. We seek to recruit, hire, and retain people from all walks of life who will champion excellence in education, research, discovery, outreach, and service. We believe that promoting a strong sense of community and belonging empowers and engages all members of USU to thrive and be successful. Learn more about USU. 

The university provides a Dual Career Assistance Program to support careers for partners who are also seeking employment. Additionally, USU is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities. To request a reasonable accommodation for a disability, contact the university’s ADA Coordinator in the Office of Human Resources at (435) 797-0122 or hr@usu.edu. 

About the Region

U.S. News and World Report ranked Utah first for its strong economy, fiscal stability, education, and health care. Outstanding outdoor recreational opportunities abound throughout the state, including five national parks, 43 state parks and recreation areas, and 15 alpine ski resorts. The home of USU’s main campus, Logan, is a city of 54,000-plus people in a picturesque mountain valley 80 miles north of Salt Lake City. The Logan metro area claimed the top spot in the Milken Institute’s 2022 ranking for best-performing small cities in the nation. 

* updated 7/2023

In its programs and activities, including in admissions and employment, Utah State University does not discriminate or tolerate discrimination, including harassment, based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other status protected by University policy, Title IX, or any other federal, state, or local law.

The following individuals have been designated to handle inquiries regarding the application of Title IX and its implementing regulations and/or USU’s non-discrimination policies:

Executive Director of the Office of Equity Matthew Pinner, discrimination@usu.edu, Distance Education Rm. 401, 435-797-1266

Title IX Coordinator Cody Carmichael, titleix@usu.edu, Distance Education Rm. 404, 435-797-1266

Mailing address: 5100 Old Main Hill, Logan, UT 84322

For further information regarding non-discrimination, please visit https://equity.usu.edu/, or contact:

U.S. Department of Education, Office of Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights, 800-421-3481, OCR@ed.gov