Postdoctoral Research Associate in Marine Microbial Ecology

Posting Number req27025

Department: Molecular and Cellular Biology

Department Website Link: https://mcb.arizona.edu

Location: Tucson Campus

Address: Tucson, AZ, USA

Position Highlights

The Department of Molecular & Cellular Biology at the University of Arizona is dedicated to understanding the fundamental structures of life, exploring how biological molecules function within cells and how these processes are regulated through genetics. Our collaborative and innovative research community spans a broad range of disciplines. The Duhamel Lab studies the role of microorganisms in biogeochemical transformations, their adaptation to different environments, and their stress response.

As part of this dynamic environment, you will have the opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research and collaborate with a multidisciplinary group of scientists advancing discoveries in biology. The Duhamel Lab at the University of Arizona (Marine Microbial Ecology and Biogeochemistry) invites you to apply for the role of Postdoctoral Research Associate in Marine Microbial Ecology.

In this role, you will lead NSF-funded laboratory research (the P-MixSwitch project, in collaboration with Susquehanna University) investigating whether prasinophyte mixoplankton switch from photosynthesis to prey ingestion when phosphorus becomes scarce. You will design and conduct steady-state continuous-culture experiments with radioisotope tracers (14C and 33P) to quantify carbon and phosphorus acquisition from photosynthetic and phagotrophic pathways, together with physiological and biochemical measurements. You will analyze, synthesize, and publish results; present findings at national and international conferences; and coordinate experiments with collaborators at Susquehanna University. You will also assist the PI with mentoring undergraduate researchers and participate in the project's education and outreach activities.

This is a full-time, 24-month postdoctoral appointment funded by a National Science Foundation Biological Oceanography award (the collaborative P-MixSwitch project with Susquehanna University), and is renewed annually contingent on performance and funding. The anticipated start date is early 2027 (negotiable). The position includes funded travel to present findings at national and international conferences and structured career development under the project's postdoctoral mentoring plan.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Lead laboratory culture experiments with prasinophyte mixoplankton and bacterial prey by:
• Designing, setting up, and operating exponentially fed batch (EFB) continuous cultures.
• Monitoring steady-state growth.
• Conducting experimental sampling.
• Performing sample analyses in collaboration with a research laboratory technician and the PI.

• Coordinate experiments with the collaborating postdoctoral scientist and PI at Susquehanna University by:
• Planning experiment timelines.
• Hosting their research visits to Tucson.
• Conduct radioisotope tracer experiments (14C-bicarbonate, 33P-phosphate, and dual-labeled bacterial prey) to quantify carbon and phosphorus uptake from osmoautotrophic and phagotrophic pathways.
• Perform physiological and biochemical measurements (e.g., flow cytometry, prey ingestion assays, chlorophyll, cellular energy charge, alkaline phosphatase activity, nutrient analyses).
• Analyze and synthesize experimental data.
• Prepare and publish manuscripts in peer-reviewed journals.
• Present research findings at national and international conferences (e.g., ASLO Ocean Sciences).
• Assist the PI with data management and reporting, and in mentoring undergraduate researchers.
• Participate in the project's education and outreach activities (e.g., high school workshops and public science events).

The successful Candidate must complete the University of Arizona laboratory safety and radiation safety training to work with radioisotopes under the laboratory's authorization.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs)

• Knowledge of aquatic microbial ecology, phytoplankton physiology, and marine biogeochemistry.
• Knowledge of laboratory and radiation safety practices related to work with chemicals and radioisotopes (training will be provided).
• Skill in microbial and phytoplankton culturing and sterile technique, including continuous culture systems.
• Skill in quantitative instrumental analyses (e.g., flow cytometry, fluorometry, and liquid scintillation counting).
• Skill in scientific writing and data analysis using tools such as R or Python.
• Ability to design, execute, and troubleshoot complex experiments independently.
• Ability to organize and prioritize work across concurrent experiments and coordinate with a multi-institutional team.
• Ability to communicate results effectively through publications and presentations and to mentor undergraduate researchers.

Physical Requirements and Environmental Demands

Work is performed primarily in a research laboratory environment. Requires the ability to access and work throughout laboratory areas, which may include extended periods of standing and walking, and to perform repetitive laboratory procedures. Requires handling laboratory equipment, chemicals, biological materials, and, following required training, radioisotopes. Must adhere to established laboratory safety procedures and wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).

Minimum Qualifications

Ph.D. in biological oceanography, marine science, microbial ecology, biogeochemistry, microbiology, or a related field conferred by the start date.

Preferred Qualifications

FLSA Exempt

Full Time/Part Time: Full Time

Number of Hours Worked per Week: 40

Job FTE: 1.0

Work Calendar: Fiscal

Job Category: Research

Benefits Eligible: Yes - Full Benefits

Rate of Pay: NIH Salary Guidelines, Depends on Experience

Compensation Type: salary at 1.0 full-time equivalency (FTE)

Type of criminal background check required: Name-based criminal background check (non-security sensitive)

Number of Vacancies: 1

Target Hire Date: 1/4/2027

Expected End Date: null

Contact Information for Candidates

Requests for information or inquiries about the position can be sent to: Valerie McClure, Human Resources Generalist, vmcclure@arizona.edu

Open Date: 9/16/2026

Open Until Filled: Yes

Documents Needed to Apply

Curriculum Vitae (CV), Cover Letter, and One Additional Document

Special Instructions to Applicant

Please submit the following materials as part of your application: Current Curriculum Vitae (CV). Cover letter. Contact information for three professional references.

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