Position Summary:
One or more research assistant(scholar) positions are available in the laboratory of Dr. Alexandra Z. Worden at the Marine Biological Laboratory, Woods Hole, MA. Research interests range from examining roles of the tiniest biological entities in the ocean – viruses - to phytoplankton and predators as well as carbon budgets. The research area we are currently hiring for is on innovations for investigating unicellular eukaryotes, microbial interactions between eukaryotic cells and bacteria, archaea and viruses, and, more broadly, marine carbon cycling. A variety of approaches ranging from traditional oceanography to lab-based culture physiology work and genetics, genomics and targeted metagenomics are being used to investigate these microbes, their ecological roles and interactions.
We are looking for outstanding individuals interested in working at the interface between the evolutionary and biological sciences – with studies extending from the lab to field. Experience in studying protistan/microbial phylogenetics, physiology, interactions, microbial diversity and/or ecology is essential. The Research Assistant project focuses on interactions between eukaryotes and co-associated biological entities – through single cell genomics, sequencing, assembly and analysis alongside potential return to the environment to visualize interactions between uncultured taxa. Other projects focus on integrative analysis of different experiment/data types, including physiological characterization and protein functional characterization.
Basic Qualifications:
Applicants for the research assistant positions should be pursuing a Ph.D. in biological oceanography with a strong bioinformatics component. The ideal candidate will have a record of scientific rigor, productivity, and creativity; the ability to work independently and as part of a team; and a strong publication record. Excellent oral and written communication skills are required. We welcome and support diversity, an essential quality for all group members.
Preferred Qualifications:
Individuals with experience in bioinformatic analysis of metatranscriptomics, gene expression (RNA-Seq) and/or comparative genomics or metagenomics are encouraged to apply. Knowledge of extraction processes, PCR, amplicon generation and other molecular biology approaches are desired.

Special Instructions:
• A cover letter with a brief description of your research experience and how your expertise will contribute to Worden Lab – Ocean EcoSystems Biology research.
• A CV which includes a list of publications
• Contact information for three references (Please do not send letters at this time; we will contact references directly).