Post Doctoral Scholar

Details

Posted: 12-Mar-24

Type: Full-time

Salary: Open

Categories:

Other Staff/Administrative
Staff/Administrative

Internal Number: R99387

We invite an outstanding candidate with a strong background in zoonotic and vector-borne disease to join our CDC-funded project team to evaluate the efficacy of rodent-targeted vaccines for reducing the risk of tick-borne disease in residential areas. Experience with field studies of vector biology, ecology, control, or host ecology is a plus.

Dr. Risa Pesapanes Parasite and Pathogen Ecology (PPE) Lab focuses on the impact of Acari on human and animal health, bite prevention and control, and the implications of parasitism for population management and conservation. The primary goal of this project is to elucidate the ecology and epidemiology of infectious agents. Our approaches include field and laboratory investigations that integrate concepts and methodologies from community ecology, molecular ecology, landscape ecology, microbiology, entomology, mathematical modeling, and epidemiology. Our work involves state and federal agencies, non-profit organizations, zoos, industry partners, academic institutions, and the public.

The candidate will have an opportunity to learn or become more proficient in taxonomic identification of arthropods, molecular techniques, survey studies, outreach and extension, and recruitment of participants for scientific studies. The candidate will also be able to network with the broader regional team of the VectorEd Network and its technical experts at the CDC since this project is supported by a Cooperative Agreement from the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention. A competitive salary and benefits will be offered commensurate with experience. The candidate will be expected to attend and present at local and national scientific meetings and funds are available for travel.

The PPE Lab fervently upholds Ohio State's Shared Values (osu.edu/shared-values). We strive for a supportive and collaborative environment. All are welcome in the PPE Lab! To learn more about our lab culture, current team, and expectations please visit the lab website (u.osu.edu/pesapane).

Essential Functions

• Plans and executes a study of considerable scope focusing on the efficacy of rodent bait containing an oral vaccine against Borrelia burgdorferi on the reduction of nymphal tick infection prevalence in residential areas

• Supervises and mentors a team of undergraduate technicians

• Participates in homeowner recruitment, bait station deployment and monitoring, small mammal trapping, and tick collection and identification

• Collects and analyzes data

• Develops and troubleshoots protocols

• Attends weekly laboratory meetings, relevant seminars, and occasional VectorEd team meetings

• Contributes to manuscript preparation and supports technical writing

• Participates in reporting for agencies supporting this study, and preparation of new grant applications for additional extramural funding

• Performs additional duties as assigned

Required Qualifications

Doctoral degree in the biological sciences or related fields; fieldwork experience involving the trapping and/or handling of vertebrate animals; evidence of leadership and mentoring; demonstrated ability to analyze data and publish in peer-reviewed journals; commitment to fostering an inclusive work environment; valid drivers license.

Desired Qualifications

Experience with tick collection and identification; experience interacting with the private landowners; experience recruiting study participants.

Working Conditions

Standard office environment; fieldwork takes place on private residential properties in both urban and rural areas of Ohio; fieldwork will occur most intensively in the months of April through August, but some limited fieldwork may occur in winter months. Small mammal trapping may occasionally require overnight stay at hotels, motels, AirBnBs, or camping where appropriate. All necessary supplies and equipment will be provided; unexpected interruptions occur often and stress level is expected to be moderate; noise level is expected to be quiet to moderate.

Physical Activities:

May work in front of computer for an extended period of time; able to move about for several hours and/or walk for up to five miles in a day, and carry up to 30 lbs for short distances; able to perform small mammal trapping including handling of live rodents, and collection of blood, tissues, and ectoparasites.

Employer will not sponsor a work visa for applicants of this position.

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About The Ohio State University
The Ohio State University is a dynamic community of diverse resources, where opportunity thrives and where individuals transform themselves and the world. Founded in 1870, Ohio State is a world-class public research university and the leading comprehensive teaching and research institution in the state of Ohio. With more than 63,000 students (including 57,000 in Columbus), the Wexner Medical Center, 14 colleges, 80 centers and 175 majors, the university offers its students tremendous breadth and depth of opportunity in the liberal arts, the sciences and the professions.
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