Post Doctoral Fellow

Job description / Role

Job Description

The Department of Biology at the United Arab Emirates (UAEU) is seeking applications for a full-time postdoctoral fellow or research associate position in population genetics/genomics of wildlife populations. The 2-year position and research project is supported by a UAEU Startup Grant. The successful candidate will work under the supervision of Dr. Oliver Manlik.

Project: In this study we will use modern genetic and/or genomic tools to assess population structure, gene flow and dispersal of local vertebrate populations in the UAE and other regions of the species' distribution. Additionally, we will use genetic tools to resolve taxonomic uncertainty of animal species/populations in the UAE. We will also characterize selectively neutral and adaptive genetic diversity of the major histocompatibility complex of wild populations with the objective of assessing local adaptation and offering conservation guidance. Some of the target species of this study include the locally endangered humpback dolphins and Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins, the vulnerable Socotra cormorants (endemic to the Gulf region), and fish species.

The candidate for the position should have relevant experience, sills and a strong interests related to the above project and the responsibilities outlined below:
- Assist in collection of biopsy samples
- Maintain the laboratory; purchase equipment and consumables
- Conduct standard molecular lab work, including DNA extraction, quantification, gel electrophoresis, PCR, DNA sequencing (Sanger & next-gen sequencing).
- Conduct population genetics/genomics analyses
- Assist in supervising/mentoring undergraduate and graduate students in the lab
- Prepare manuscripts for publication in top-ranked, peer-reviewed scientific journals

The salary will be approximately 7000 to 8333 AED (ca. $ 1900 to 2200) per month for 2 years. There may be opportunities to obtain additional funding (but no guarantees).

Requirements

Minimum Qualification

- A PhD in population genetics, genomics, molecular ecology, evolutionary ecology or related field in biology (for postdoc position);
- Proficiency conducting standard molecular laboratory work, including DNA extraction, PCR, gel electrophoresis and sequence analysis
- Experience with population genetics or evolutionary genetic analyses

Preferred Qualification

- Experience amplifying, sequencing and analyzing major histocompatibility complex (MHC) genes
- Experience with next-generation sequencing techniques, especially Illumina HiSeq or MiSeq, including library preps
- Experience with population genomics analyses
- Experience with genomics, including ddRAD sequencing, genome assembly
- Experience surveying and collecting biopsy samples from marine mammals

About the Company

Founded in 1976 by the late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, UAEU is a comprehensive, research-intensive university enrolling about 14,000 Emirati and international students. As the UAE’s flagship university, UAEU offers a full range of accredited, high-quality graduate and undergraduate programs through nine Colleges: Business and Economics; Education; Engineering; Food and Agriculture; Humanities and Social Sciences; IT; Law; Medicine and Health Sciences; and Science. With a distinguished international faculty, state-of-the art new campus, and full range of student support services, UAEU offers a living-learning environment that is unmatched in the UAE.

As a research-intensive university of international stature, UAEU works with its partners in industry to provide research solutions to challenges faced by the nation, the region, and the world. The University has established research centers of strategic importance to the country and the region which are advancing knowledge in critical areas ranging from water resources to cancer treatments. UAEU is currently ranked the number one research university in the GCC, number two in the Arab World, and #370 globally.

UAEU’s academic programs have been developed in partnership with employers, so our graduates are in high demand. UAEU alumni hold key positions in industry, commerce, and government throughout the region. Our continuing investments in facilities, services, and staff ensure that UAEU will continue to serve as a model of innovation and excellence.