Society of Systematic Biologists

A postdoctoral research scholar position in plant population genetics is immediately available at North Carolina State University in the Crop Science Department. The researcher will conduct research on maize genetics. Large samples of inbred and outbred maize landraces will be grown in a short day-length nursery. Each plant will be sequenced to identify parentage and inbreeding level and measured for numerous traits related to fitness. The researcher will be responsible for analysis of inbreeding depression at the gene level and testing prediction models for phenotypes. Requirements: Ph.D. degree in plant breeding, plant population genetics, or plant genetics. Experience with collection of plant phenotype data in field experiments. Knowledge of quantitative and population genetics. Knowledge of SAS or R programming.. Significant travel will be required for experiment management and data collection. Experience with maize genetics and bioinformatics is preferred. Interested persons can apply directly at jobs.ncsu.edu. Search for position number 00103312. For further information, contact: Jim Holland Department of Crop Science North Carolina State University Raleigh, NC 27695-7620 919-513-4198 james_holland[at]ncsu.edu Jim Holland

Announcement: 1st international Environmental Omics Synthesis conference Cardiff University, UK, 9-11th Sept. 2013 See: http://www.environmentalomics.org/ieos2013 As part of the NERC - Mathematics and Informatics for Environmental 'Omics Data Synthesis directed programme, we are pleased to announce the first in a series of annual conferences. This year the session topics will be - Learning from the past to inform the future - Ecological 'Omics: from workflows to adaptation - Epigenetics - Evolutionary 'Omics: models and applications - Integrated and Systems 'Omics - Community ecology: from metagenomics to function and synthetic biology Keynote speakers: - Prof. Eske Willerslev, Centre for GeoGenetics, Natural History Museum of Denmark - Prof. John Colbourne, Chair of Environmental Genomics, University of Birmingham - Prof. Jack Gilbert, Earth Microbiome Project, University of Chicago Registration open! Abstract submission open! on behalf of Peter Kille and the iEOS organising committee. Daniel -- Daniel Barker http://biology.st-andrews.ac.uk/staff/db60 The University of St Andrews is a charity registered in Scotland : No SC013532

*Research assistant or researcher in (evolutionary) bioinformatics* A position is available for a bioinformatics research assistant or researcher in Academy Professor Craig Primmer's research group (see http://users.utu.fi/primmer for more details) at the University of Turku, Finland. The successful applicant will be expected to assist and train research group members in bioinformatics tasks related to the evolutionary genomics research being conducted in the group. This includes writing scripts for data processing and developing, maintaining and documenting analysis pipelines for various forms of molecular data from non-model organisms, including next-generation sequencing, proteomics and transcriptomics. They will also be responsible for the general maintenance of computing facilities in the group. Depending on the interests of the successful applicant, collaboration in the group's research projects, as well as carrying out their own research e.g. as a part of a PhD project, is also possible. Applications will be considered from candidates holding either a Masters or PhD degree in bioinformatics or a bioinformatics related field. Good knowledge of relevant programming languages (Perl, python, R etc.) is essential. A demonstrated interest and/or experience in evolutionary biology is an advantage, as is being creative, exceptionally patient and a willingness to acknowledge Windows as an operating system under some circumstances. Informal inquires and applications should be addressed to Acad. Prof. Craig Primmer (craig.primmer[at]utu.fi). Applications (one single pdf file) should include a full CV that includes details of formal training and practical experience in bioinformatics, a list of publications and contact details of at least two referees. Review of applications will commence on May 15 with the preferred starting date being by July. The position is initially available until the end of 2013, but an extension is likely to be possible. The salary range will be according to the university pay scale and will depend on the education level and relevant experience of the successful applicant. -- Craig Primmer Academy Professor Division of Genetics and Physiology Department of Biology Pharmacity 20014 University of Turku FINLAND Office +358 2 333 5571 Mobile +358 40 1560 365 Fax. +358 2 333 6598 craig.primmer[at]utu.fi http://users.utu.fi/primmer pharm.shihab[at]gmail.com

Postdoctoral Position at Smith College: Interpreting the position and impact of microorganisms on the tree of life Smith College invites applications for a full-time postdoctoral research position focusing on reconstructing the tree of life, with emphasis on the placement of microbial lineages. The initial appointment is for one year, with the possibility of extending for additional years. The position will be housed in Professor Laura Katz's laboratory in the Department of Biological Sciences (http://www.science.smith.edu/departments/Biology/lkatz/Research.htm); questions should be directed to lkatz[at]smith.edu. An ideal candidate will: 1) be a productive researcher with interests in phylogenetics and phylogenomics of microorganisms; 2) have experience in bioinformatics, including managing and manipulating large data sets; 3) have excellent communication and interpersonal skills; and 4) be interested in collaborating with graduate and undergraduate students in the laboratory. The goals of the project are to synthesize data on the nature of the tree of life, with particular attention given to microorganisms. The Post-doc will participate in a large collaborative endeavor supported by the NSF AVATOL Program that is aimed at synthesizing a comprehensive tree of life from published analyses, and developing novel tools for community-driven annotation of the tree (http://opentreeoflife.org). Specific responsibilities will include: 1) assembling phylogenetic datasets from diverse microoganisms; 2) working collaboratively with other project members by contributing to method development for analyzing and integrating these datasets; and 3) outreach to the community of systematists studying microorganisms. To apply, submit application at https://secure.interfolio.com/apply/21574 with letter of application, C.V., a statement of research interests, representative publications, and the names and contact information of three references. Review of applications will begin May 15th, 2013. Smith College is a member of the Five College Consortium with Amherst, Hampshire, and Mount Holyoke Colleges and the University of Massachusetts Amherst. Smith College is an equal opportunity employer encouraging excellence through diversity. lkatz[at]smith.edu

POSTDOCTORAL RESEARCHER Washington State University School of Biological Sciences We are seeking a postdoctoral researcher to work on population and landscape genomics of Tasmanian devils and Tasmanian devil facial tumor disease. This international collaboration builds on over 15 years of research tracking the spread of this unique infectious tumor across Tasmania and consequent endangerment of the iconic Tasmanian devil. Reference genomes are available for both tumor and devil. The successful applicant will have an unprecedented opportunity to analyze thousands of devil genotypes and hundreds of tumor samples taken both before and after epizootics to test for selection throughout both genomes, coevolution, patterns of resistance, etc, across Tasmania. We will then use these data to predict the course of disease in uninfected populations. The position is centered in the lab of Dr. Andrew Storfer at Washington State University, in close collaboration with Dr. Paul Hohenlohe at the nearby University of Idaho (8 miles away). Both universities have genomics core facilities, including the Institute of Bioinformatics and Evolutionary Studies (IBEST; http://www.uidaho.edu/research/ibest) with up-to-date equipment, computational facilities and staff support. Review of applications will begin on May 15, 2013 and continue until the position is filled. A Ph.D. in Biology or a related discipline is required, and we particularly welcome applicants with experience in population genomics, infectious disease evolution, conservation, bioinformatics, and/or cancer genomics. Anticipated start date is August 16, 2013. Salary and benefits are competitive. Position is for 1-4 years, pending satisfactory progress. To apply, please send in pdf format a CV, and names, addresses and email addresses of 3 references, a research statement and up to 3 representative reprints via email to: Andrew Storfer ( astorfer[at]wsu.edu). *WSU is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action/ADA educator and employer.* -- Andrew Storfer, PhD Eastlick Distinguished Professor Associate Director for Graduate Studies School of Biological Sciences Washington State University Pullman, WA 99164 USA Phone: (509) 335-7922 Fax: (509) 335-3184 astorfer[at]wsu.edu www.wsu.edu/~storfer andrew.storfer[at]gmail.com

PhD Studentship Comparative analysis of grapevine genotypes with different levels of resistance to downy mildew The Research and Innovation Centre (CRI) is part of Fondazione Edmund Mach (FEM), a public research institution established by the government of the Autonomous Province of Trento. CRI-FEM is located in Trentino (the North of Italy) and supports studies in the field of agriculture, nutrition and environment, with the aim of sharing knowledge and contributing to economic growth, social development and overall improvement of life quality. Project description: Downy mildew (DM) is a widespread disease of grape caused by the oomycete Plasmopara viticola, an invasive species native to North America. This pathogen can infect grapevine cultivars as well as wild Vitis species. However, while the cultivars are highly susceptible, most of the wild species are relatively resistant. The disease is currently controlled by the application of fungicides, yet the demand for organic products is increasing and concerns that these chemicals have harmful effect on the environment and human health require growers to reduce the use of pesticides in fruit production. Natural sources of disease resistance could be found in geographic regions where populations of pathogens and host plants co-evolve. Thus, germplasm of several Vitis species native to temperate zones of North America has been investigated for the genetic base of DM resistance. It may be possible to transfer resistance to DM from these wild grape species into susceptible domesticated grapevines, but the consequences of so-called "linkage drag" of undesired traits could not be completely eliminated, even after several cycles of backcrossing. Recently, single local grapevine varieties of Near Eastern origin have attracted attention, because of their lower susceptibility to DM. These plants, unlike most of grapevine cultivars, have leaves and fruits without symptoms of disease during the growing season. Such natural sources of resistance to non-native pathogens stimulate genetic investigations and are of great significance for developing alternative resistance-breeding strategies. In this project, the PhD student will use different integrative approaches to characterize these important accessions of V. vinifera, as well as to identify and mine genes and alleles associated with plant resistance to DM. The long term objective of this PhD research is to ultimately enable effective transfer of natural resistance to the most severe disease affecting fruit quality into future plant material, and to reduce the need for using fungicides, which will make grapevine cultivation more environment-friendly. The successful candidate must have or expect to obtain a minimum of a Master's degree in a scientific discipline or equivalent qualification. Oral and writing skills in English are required to a high standard. The studentship offers a stipend of euro 20,000 per annum and is funded to pay tuition fees. The expected start date is September 2013 and the funding is provided for 3 years with the possibility of a one-year extension. The student will be based at FEM, San Michele all'Adige (Trentino), but will spend part of the time at the JKI - Federal Research Centre for Cultivated Plants (Siebeldingen, Germany) and at the University of Milan (Italy). Electronic applications can be submitted via the CRI-FEM website http://cri.fmach.eu/education/Applications-Forms/application-form-FIRS-T-Second-Call-2013 For further information about the project and selection procedure, please visit the website at http://cri.fmach.eu/education/selection/FIRS-T-Second-Call-2013 (select project A_1) and http://cri.fmach.eu/education/selection. Closing date for receipt of completed applications is Friday, 24 May 2013 at 18.00 CET. ls.grzeskowiak[at]gmail.com

Hi folks, We have five permanent academic positions available in my department at the National University of Ireland Maynooth. These are NOT tenure-track, they are permanent right from the start. Successful candidates will have their own laboratory space and will be expected to apply for grants and carry out research in addition to their teaching responsibilities. Applications from people with a background in evolution, genomics, bioinformatics are all encouraged and welcome. More details here: http://humanresources.nuim.ie/documents/JobSpec_Lecturer_Biology_SEBLB.pdf Please pass this email on to people you think might be interested. best, James. -- Prof. James McInerney, | Center for Communicable Disease Dynamics, Molecular Evolution & Bioinformatics Unit,| Harvard School of Public Health, Department of Biology, | 677 Huntington Avenue Boston, National University of Ireland Maynooth, | Massachusetts 02115 Co. Kildare, Ireland. | USA Lab site: http://bioinf.nuim.ie/james-mcinerney James McInerney

I am conducting a study of geographical variation in song characteristics and I am looking for volunteers to take a survey. Participants will rate the similarity of the songs of several species. If you are able to volunteer to take this survey, please e-mail me at nathanbwarbler[at]gmail.com, and I will send you an e-mail with the URL to the survey and more information. Thank you in advance, Nathan Burroughs Department of Ecology & Evolutionary Biology University of California, Los Angeles nathanbwarbler[at]gmail.com Nathan Burroughs

SISG Scholarship Application Deadline Extended to May 10. Some further registration-fee and travel scholarships are available for the 18th Summer Institute in Statistical Genetics in Seattle, July 8-26. Details at http://sisg.biostat.washington.edu Applications received by April 26 will be processed before May 10, others by May 17. New modules include Introduction to R and Scripting for Biologists, Omics Data and Network Analyses, Forensic Genetics, Mixed Models in Quantitative Genetics, Metagenomics, Epidemiology of Viruses. Previously popular modules include Bayesian Statistics for Genetics, Population and Quantitative Genetic Data Analysis, QTL and Association Mapping, Gene Expression, Coalescent and MCMC Theory, Human and Animal Genetic Data Analysis, Phylogenetics, Introductory Statistics, Introductory Genomics. Bruce Weir bsweir[at]uw.edu Bruce Weir

Dear Colleagues: Registration is open for the course "Disentangling evolutionary relationships with Phylogenetic Comparative Methods - Second edition"; October 7-11, 2013. INSTRUCTORS: Dr. Alejandro Gonzᬥz-Voyer (EBD, Spain) and Dr. Achaz von Hardenberg (Alpine Wildlife Research Centre, Italy) . SITE: Els Hostalets de Pierola, Barcelona, Spain. This course will provide an introduction to phylogenetic comparative methods (PCM) focusing on Phylogenetic Generalized Least Squares (PGLS) and introducing Phylogenetic Path Analysis methods. PCMs provide a means of incorporating information about the evolutionary relationships of organisms (phylogeny) in statistical analyses. To enhance the practical approach of the course, participants are encouraged to bring their own data to conduct analyses and discuss the results. More information: http://www.transmittingscience.org/courses/evol/pcm/ This course will be held in the facilities of the Centre de Restauraci󠩍 Intepretacio Paleontologica (CRIP), and are co-organized by Transmitting Science, the CRIP and the Universidad Aut󮯭a de Madrid. Places are limited and will be covered by strict registration order. Please feel free to distribute this information between your colleagues if you consider it appropriate. With best regards Soledad De Esteban-Trivigno soledad.esteban[at]transmittingscience.org Transmitting Science Soledad De Esteban Trivigno

Dear EVOLDIR Readers, We are looking for biologists or friends of biologists who have had 13- or 17-year cicadas on their property. We would like protected sites where we can dig nymphs once per year. We are especially interested in people who have 13-year Brood XIX (emerged in 2011), 17-year Brood XIV (emerged in 2008), and 13-year Brood XXII (will emerge in Louisiana in 2014). But other broods are also useful. We are also looking for high schools and university campuses that have periodical cicadas. We would like to find collaborator-teachers who would like to participate in following nymphal growth annually. Please contact chris.simon[at]uconn.edu Thanks! And enjoy Brood II along the east coast of the US this spring! And if you see then, report your sightings to Magicicada.org! Chris Chris Simon Professor, Ecology & Evolutionary Biology 75 North Eagleville Road, University of Connecticut Storrs, CT 06269-3043 chris.simon[at]uconn.edu Office (860) 486-4640; Lab (860) 486-3947; Fax (860) 486-6364, Office: Biopharm 305D, Lab: Biopharm 323,325 C. Simon Home page: http://hydrodictyon.eeb.uconn.edu/projects/cicada/simon_lab/member_pages/c_simon.php Simon Lab Home: http://hydrodictyon.eeb.uconn.edu/projects/cicada/simon_lab/lab_pages/current.php Reprints: http://hydrodictyon.eeb.uconn.edu/projects/cicada/resources/reprints.html Magicicada Brood II will appear along the east coast of the US in Spring 2013, watch Magicicada.org for information. chris.simon.uconn[at]gmail.com