If I were a graduate student nearing graduation, I would apply for this: an NSF-funded postdoc opportunity in the Umen lab at the Donald Danforth Plant Science Center in St. Louis.

Taking applications for NSF-funded postdoc position to study multicellularity and germ-soma evolution in Volvox. Exciting opportunity to apply molecular biology and computational approaches to gene network evolution. https://t.co/vTZVSM9Q6Dpic.twitter.com/f90rSw0F1d

— Jim Umen (@Volvox01) July 26, 2018

For examples of recent work from the Umen lab, check out Gavriel Matt’s work on cellular differentiation, Sa Geng’s work on sex determination, and Dr. Umen’s brief review of Volvox biology as an example of a “non-model model organism.” The full job ad and application details are here:

The Umen laboratory at Donald Danforth Plant Science Center www.umenlab.org is seeking a postdoctoral researcher for an NSF-funded project to work on the mechanism and evolution of germ and somatic cell differentiation in the multicellular green alga Volvox carteri.

Candidates with training in molecular genetics and bioinformatics/genomics, including use of R and other script-based programming languages are encouraged to apply. Experience with molecular biology methods is also desirable. Additional qualifications include effective writing and communication, strong problem solving and critical thinking, and ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary and interactive research environment.

To be considered applicants should send a cover letter, CV and names/contact information for three references.