Postdoctoral Associate

Position Function: The selected candidate will be expected to perform a variety of routine and specialized duties, in field and laboratory settings, that will require considerable knowledge of the principles and theories of applied and basic sciences, laboratory techniques, and methods for obtaining research data. Salary Grade: UC Please see Staff Compensation Structure or Skilled Crafts and Service Maintenance Compensation Schedule for salary ranges. For salary grade UC, these positions are "Unclassified" and salary ranges are determined by the hiring department. Department Profile: The Poultry Science Department at Mississippi State University is seeking a highly motivated and enthusiastic candidate for a postdoctoral associate focusing on the intersection of poultry health and predictive modeling of respiratory diseases. This position will involve significant work with spatial analysis, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and environmental data integration to study and predict the spread of respiratory bacterial diseases in poultry and bovine populations. The postdoc will collaborate on a project analyzing the spatial-temporal distribution of these diseases, aiming to enhance disease management practices through advanced predictive modeling tools. Work for this position may be performed in a laboratory, classroom, office, or USDA ARS Research Unit. Anticipated Appointment Date: January 1, 2025. Essential Duties and Responsibilities: Develop and implement predictive models to forecast outbreaks of avian and bovine respiratory bacterial diseases using GIS and machine learning algorithms. Collect, analyze, and interpret complex data sets involving spatial, environmental, and biological factors related to disease transmission. Disseminate findings through publications in high-quality journals and presentations at relevant conferences. Mentor graduate students and visiting scholars as assigned by the PI, providing guidance and support for their research projects. Ensure proper care in using and maintaining equipment and supplies and promote continuous improvement of workplace safety and environmental practices. Perform miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned. Minimum Qualifications: PhD in Poultry Science, Molecular Biology, Immunology, Microbiology, or related fields. Ideal candidates should have knowledge of molecular biological techniques, such as RNA/DNA/protein extraction, handling research animals at farm, gene expression, microbiome analysis, and real-time PCR. Preferred Qualifications: Candidates should have a proven record of research excellence. Field and laboratory work beyond the minimum required. Candidates with BSL-2 and ABSL-2 expertise in animal handling and care. Preference will be given to individuals with experience with chicken models of infection, especially with bacteria like E. coli, Salmonella, and/or cell culture. Strong interest in conducting research and working in groups and cooperatively with other lab members as a team as well at the ability to work independently. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: Strong organizational and multitasking skills, with the ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary and interactive research environment. Excellent writing and communication skills, with meticulous record-keeping and attention to detail. Proficient in using Geographic Information Systems (GIS), spatial analysis, and machine learning for predictive modeling. Previous experience in epidemiology, particularly with poultry and bovine diseases, is highly preferred. Working Conditions and Physical Effort Exposure to chicken feathers, litter, and feed. Ability to lift up to 50-pound feed bags. Instructions for Applying: Link to apply: http://explore.msujobs.msstate.edu/ The application must be submitted online at www.msujobs.msstate.edu. Applicants should submit the following documents: i) curriculum vitae (including a statement of current position and responsibilities); ii) academic transcripts; iii) a cover letter expressing the applicant's interests and qualifications; iv) three letters of reference. Screening of applications is expected to begin immediately. The position will remain open until a suitable candidate is found. Any social security numbers included on requested transcripts should be redacted before submitting them online. Applicants must email Dr. Li Zhang (lz245msstate.edu) a PDF containing the materials listed below. Cover letter Curriculum vitae Statement of Research that describes past research experience and future interests Contact information of the three academic or professional references Screening Date: December 11, 2024, until filled. Restricted Clause: Position is contingent upon continued availability of funding. Equal Employment Opportunity Statement: MSU is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, ethnicity, sex, religion, national origin, disability, age, sexual orientation, genetic information, pregnancy, gender identity, status as a U.S. veteran, and/or any other status protected by applicable law. We always welcome nominations and applications from women, members of any minority group, and others who share our passion for building a diverse community that reflects the diversity in our student population. What do I do if I need an accommodation? In compliance with the ADA Amendments Act (ADA), if you have a disability and would like to request an accommodation in order to apply for a position with Mississippi State University, please contact the Department of Human Resources Management at tel: (662) 325-3713 or adahrm.msstate.edu. If you have any questions regarding this policy, contact the Department of Human Resources Management at (662) 325-3713 or adahrm.msstate.edu. Upon request, sections of this job listing are available in large print, and readers are available to assist the visually impaired.