PhD position in viral evolution and diversity

Job Title: PhD position in viral evolution and diversity

Job Number: 68858

Location: Blacksburg, US

Job Description

The Aylward lab at Virginia Tech is seeking enthusiastic students interested in the ecology and evolution of large DNA viruses to join the research group. Several funded PhD positions are available. The lab uses molecular, ‘omic, and bioinformatic tools to address questions regarding the diversity, genomics, and evolution of viruses. Positions are available for both computationally-focused and wet-lab focused research.

Requirements

Students should have 1) a strong interest in viral evolution and diversity, 2) a bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in a related field. For students interested in bioinformatics/genomics, some degree of familiarity with python or R would be preferable. Training will be provided for more in-depth bioinformatic analyses and coding. For students interested in wet-lab experimentation, some familiarity with common microbiology methods is required, and further training will be provided for more advanced methods such as flow cytometry, RNA-seq, etc.

Lab Environment

The Aylward lab is a supportive, inclusive, and collaborative environment where students can pursue research that they find exciting and rewarding. Former students have received competitive fellowships and gone on to successful positions in academia and industry. More info at www.aylwardlab.com

Programs & Application

Students can join the lab through several graduate programs offered at Virginia Tech, including different tracks within the Biological Sciences graduate program. Students will be provided competitive stipends and have the opportunity to interact with the dynamic and inclusive community at Virginia Tech that includes scientists working on exciting questions in ecology, evolution, systems biology, and computational biology. More information regarding the Aylward Lab and links to different programs can be found on the lab webpage (www.aylwardlab.com).

Interested applicants should send a combined PDF with a description of their research interests and motivation, their CV, and contact information for three references directly to Frank Aylward ([Please click the Apply button for the link or email]).

Application Deadline: 2023-12-15