The Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering at Arizona State University (ASU) and the School of Sustainable Engineering and the Built Environment (SSEBE) invites applicants for a postdoctoral research scholar position in the area of algae cultivation and crop protection. The School of Sustainable Engineering and the Built Environment, one of the eight Fulton Schools, houses a vibrant engineering research community (Learn more at https://research.engineering.asu.edu).

The Arizona Center for Algae Technology and Innovation (AzCATI) is searching for a postdoctoral candidate for a position recently funded by the Department of Energy grants focused on predation in algae cultures. The two projects Secretome and Exudate Effects on Algal Media and Grazing (SEAMAG) and Anti-virulence Approaches to Treat Algal Crops (AvATAC). Across both projects, AzCATI will establish multiple algae-predator model systems from novel bacterial and fungal contaminants found on the outdoor field site. These systems will be used to better understand and quantify the rate of infection and the long-term effects on biomass productivity. The project involves an iterative approach to indoor and outdoor experimentation ranging from 100 mL flasks into 1000 L raceways. The hired candidate will lead the efforts in characterizing the interactions between the predators and algae to better understand methods to mitigate infection. It is anticipated that these efforts will involve microscopy, flow cytometry, and molecular techniques to track the progression of infection to quantify baseline infection rates and the increase in culture performance under different mitigation techniques.

The initial appointment is for one year, with renewal for one additional year, contingent upon satisfactory performance, the needs of the university, and the availability of resources.

Essential Duties:

• Investigating and culturing algae-predator model systems.
• valuating microbial community analysis data.
• Develop qPCR and FISH probes to track infection propagation.
• Collaboration and Networking: Interact with experts at ASU, New Mexico State University, Los Alamos National Laboratory, sharing methods, results, lessons learned, and shaping future objectives in the field.
• Mentorship: Guide and mentor students who are contributing to AzCATI projects, fostering their technical and professional growth.

Required:

• PhD in microbiology, biology, biochemistry, environmental engineering, chemical engineering, or similar fields by the time of appointment; PhD must be obtained within the past 4 years.
• Proficiency in standard bacteriology techniques including isolation, identification and storage.
• Proficiency in molecular techniques and molecular data analysis, including metagenomic tools and software.
• Proficiency in word processing and presentation software such as Microsoft Office, OneDrive, PowerPoint, and Google Drive.
• Ability to effectively communicate technical concepts to audiences with diverse backgrounds

Desired Qualifications:

• Experience in cultivating algae.
• Experience in mentoring students or colleagues on technical and professional concept.

Application deadline is May 3 2024. Applications will continue to be accepted on a rolling basis for a reserve pool. Applications in the reserve pool may then be reviewed in the order in which they were received until the position is filled.

To apply, create or use an existing Interfolio Dossier to submit the following:

• Curriculum Vitae
• Cover letter of interest describing how you meet the qualifications for this position
• Contact information for 3 professional references including email addresses

The ASU Charter states, “ASU is a comprehensive public research university, measured not by whom it excludes, but by whom it includes and how they succeed; advancing research and discovery of public value; and assuming fundamental responsibility for the economic, social, cultural and overall health of the communities it serves.” The Fulton Schools of Engineering are dedicated to cultivating excellence, delivering innovation that matters, encouraging bold thinking, fostering a community of learning and collaboration and building a foundation for all to be successful. Applicants are encouraged to address how their past, current and future activities align with the ASU Charter and Fulton Schools of Engineering values in their application materials.

For additional information regarding position specifics, please contact the search committee chair, John McGowen via email at john.mcgowen@asu.edu.