Job DescriptionSARS-CoV-2 infection in humans coupled with human-animal interactions have led to multiple transmission events between humans and wildlife. Recent studies have also found evidence of viral transmission within wildlife populations. The Hoyt and Langwig Labs are conducting a study to understand the ecological and evolutionary drivers of SARS-CoV-2 transmission in wildlife communities.We seek a Postdoctoral Associate to lead and coordinate field efforts on SARS-CoV-2 in small mammals and mesocarnivores. The Postdoc will be responsible for initial training and oversight of technician teams that conduct regular sampling, assist with permitting and site coordination, help with animal care and use protocols, analyze data, and lead manuscripts. There are substantial opportunities to design independent projects and build on new ideas within the wildlife SARS-CoV-2 system.Specific field duties may include capture and marking of mammals (e.g. mice, opossums, skunks, raccoons, squirrels) in live traps. Applicants should have previous experience trapping and handling small mammals or mesocarnivores. Furthermore, duties include chemical immobilization of animals, collection of serum, and collection of swabs. A background or strong interest in disease ecology is preferred.The Hoyt and Langwig labs are housed in an infectious disease collaborative space, which provides an environment for interdisciplinary research on environment-infectious disease relationships. The position is for onsite work only and includes a competitive salary and fringe benefits.Required Qualifications• Ph.D. in biology, ecology, wildlife or a related field• Previous experience handling small mammals or mesocarnivores and setting live-traps and the ability to conduct similar fieldwork in the future• Strong skills in organization, communication, and teamworkPreferred Qualifications• Demonstrated ability to produce peer-reviewed publications• Experience with animal anesthesia/chemical-immobilization• Prior experience collecting blood from animalsAppointment TypeRestrictedSalary InformationCommensurate with experience but within budget maximumReview DateMay 15, 2024Additional InformationInterested candidates should submit (1) a cover letter of up to two pages, highlighting the required and additional qualifications relevant to the proposed position, (2) a CV, and (3) contact information for three professional references, upon applying online at www.jobs.vt.edu . Questions about the position can be directed toward Dr. Joseph Hoyt at ****** successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.PhD awarded no more than four years prior to the effective date of appointment with a minimum of one year eligibility remaining.About Virginia TechDedicated to its motto,Ut Prosim(That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the boundaries of knowledge by taking a hands-on, transdisciplinary approach to preparing scholars to be leaders and problem-solvers. A comprehensive land-grant institution that enhances the quality of life in Virginia and throughout the world, Virginia Tech is an inclusive communitydedicated to knowledge, discovery, and creativity. The university offers more than 280 majors to a diverse enrollment of more than 36,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students in eight undergraduate colleges, a school of medicine, a veterinary medicinecollege, Graduate School , andHonors College . The university has a significant presence across Virginia, including theInnovation Campus in Northern Virginia; the Health Sciences and Technology Campus in Roanoke; sites in Newport News and Richmond; and numerousExtension offices andresearch centers . A leading global research institution, Virginia Tech conducts more than $500 million in research annually.Virginia Tech does not discriminate against employees, students, or applicants on the basis of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, or military status, or otherwise discriminate against employees or applicants who inquire about, discuss, or disclose their compensation or the compensation of other employees or applicants, or on any other basis protected by law.If you are an individual with a disability and desire an accommodation, please contact Dreama Price at ****** during regular business hours at least 10 business days prior to the event.
