Position Title: Postdoctoral Research Associate in Molecular Virology Location: San Diego, California Salary Range: $35,000 - $42,000 per year (plus benefits) Application Deadline: 15 April 2009 Program Description: Our laboratory consists of a group of veterinarians and molecular biologists with an interest in marine mammal health. The lab has facilities at both the Hubbs-SeaWorld Research Institute (HSWRI, San Diego, CA) and the University of Florida (Gainesville, FL). The position is in the HSWRI laboratory in San Diego. We work in close collaboration with SeaWorld Adventure Parks, the U.S. Navy Marine Mammal Program and Columbia University on various aspects of viral diseases of bottlenose dolphins and California sea lions. The mission of our lab is to discover novel viruses and explore the veterinary relevance of newly discovered viruses via extensive disease investigations using multiple managed and free-ranging marine mammal populations. Recent pathogen assessments include, but are not limited to poxviruses of seals, sea lions and dolphins, dolphin parainfluenzavirus type 1, San Miguel sea lion virus, dolphin enterovirus, and herpesviruses of whales and dolphins. Job Summary: The successful candidate will work under the supervision of an HSWRI Research Biologist, and two Principal Investigators. The purpose of this position will be to participate in all aspects of the detection and genetic characterization of novel viruses. Specifically, the post-doc will be involved in processing of clinical samples, the screening of clinical samples using electron microscopy, specific and degenerate PCR, 454 pyrosequencing and panviral microarray. The post-doc will participate in the preparation for manuscripts on virus characterizations. The appointment will initially be for one year, with the possibility of a one-year extension. Qualifications: The candidate should have a Ph.D. in a relevant field granted within the past 5 years. Previous experience with the genetic characterization of organisms, especially viruses, and a thorough understanding of molecular characterization techniques is required. Required skills include direct sequencing, sequence editing, sequence analysis, and primer design. Experience with cloning, phylogenetic analysis and preparation of samples for microarray is preferred. Application Materials and Contact information: Please send curriculum vitae and a 2 page letter of intent with a description of research accomplishments and interests, relevant experience, along with the names and telephone numbers of three references to: Postdoctoral Research Associate Program, Hubbs-SeaWorld Research Institute, 2595 Ingraham Street, San Diego, CA 92109. Application materials and questions may be submitted electronically to: HR@hswri.org. Applicants should indicate a preferred start date. Hubbs-SeaWorld Research Institute is an Equal Opportunity Employer.