We are seeking a creative and interactive individual to join our group as a postdoctoral fellow to lead a project on disease ecology in wild turkeys. The project is an ambitious effort to determine the effect of retroviruses on wild turkey demographics and co-infections. The study is entering the 4th year with three completed field seasons and laboratory testing. Providing the postdoc the opportunity to start analyzing data and writing manuscripts on day one. The work is in close collaboration with researchers at Penn State University and the Pennsylvania Game Commission. These collaborations provide opportunity to coordinate collaborative projects that integrate multiple data sources (e.g., movement data).

The Wildlife Futures Program (WFP) is a wildlife health program at the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine that work closely with wildlife management professionals and leads innovative research to inform wildlife health. The position will include publication of research findings in peer-reviewed journals and representing the Wildlife Futures Program at professional meetings and trainings. If desired there is the opportunity for mentorship of students, particularly summer veterinary students. The work will be conducted under the guidance of Dr. Roderick (Erick) Gagne. The position has funding for two years and a minimum starting salary of $66,300. The start date is flexible with a potential July start.

The position is located at PennVet New Bolton Center in Chester County, PA. New Bolton Center is in the beautiful Brandywine Valley where there are many nearby opportunities for outdoor recreation and cultural attractions, including Longwood Gardens, Brandywine River Museum of Art, vineyards, breweries, and a vibrant restaurant scene including downtown Kennett Square. In addition, the postdoc will be a part of the University of Pennsylvania’s Biomedical Postdoctoral Program Home | Biomedical Postdoctoral Programs | Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania (upenn.edu) The program emphasizes career and personal development and strives to provide the highest quality training in and outside of the labs. There will be opportunities for the postdoc to travel to Philadelphia (~35 miles) as well as remotely participate in programing provided by the program.

Qualifications

A Ph.D. in a related field is required. Although we will consider a broad range of applicants, experience with disease ecology is preferred, particularly in areas of quantitative modeling, spatial epidemiology, or virology. The ability to collaborate and clearly communicate written and verbal scientific objectives and project results to a broad is audience (e.g. public, agency staff) is required. Above all else, the position requires someone committed to a safe, respectful, and diverse working environment.

To apply, please submit a cover letter, CV, and contact information for three references to Erick Gagne, [email protected]. Review of applications will be rolling, with invitations for the first round of interviews in June. Please feel free to reach out with any questions about this position.