APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS: + CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday (https://www.myworkday.com/psu/d/inst/13102!CK5mGhIKBggDEMenAhIICgYI1A0Q1QI~*qyZ5PNog5Ug~/cacheable-task/2998$46522.htmld#backheader=true) to complete the internal application process (https://pennstateoffice365.sharepoint.com/:b:/s/KnowledgeBaseArticlesSharing/EfiwgKReZ4VAjprFZPKWUm0Bq\_sU3KzTmERfpryq0esPKQ) . Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday. + CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. (https://pennstateoffice365.sharepoint.com/:b:/s/KnowledgeBaseArticlesSharing/Eeys15Xva4hFokHVtbP1eGIB5i1WFLc-J3k9KHgrFYZ7mg) Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday. + If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click “Apply” and complete the application process for external applicants (https://hr.psu.edu/sites/hr/files/Application\_Process\_for\_External\_Applications\_Non-Penn\_State\_Employees\_.pdf) . JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS: The Penn State Hazleton biology department is seeking applicants for a postdoctoral research position on environmental DNA (eDNA) marker development for aquatic invasive species (AIS). The successful applicant will join the United States Department of Interior Early Detection and Rapid Response team for AIS monitoring. This interdisciplinary collaborative work group is comprised of state, federal, and academic researchers working to develop and refine early detection tools for AIS management. The work will focus on priority and emerging AIS threats across the United States. This project is funded by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the applicant would work primarily at the Northeast Fishery Center in Lamar, Pennsylvania alongside federal research scientists. This position is a one-year term appointment, with the possibility of renewal based on performance and funding. Education and Experience: A PhD in ecology, biology, or related field with experience in molecular genetics is required. Specific laboratory skills could include, quantitative PCR marker design and validation, metabarcoding, mitochondrial genome assembly, molecular taxonomy, or other associated molecular techniques. Applicants must work well in a team environment and have an interest in natural resource conservation and management. Responsibilities: Specific job duties for this position include, but are not limited to following: + Working with museum repositories and other partners to acquire tissue samples for testing + Maintaining tissue inventory and database records + Completing molecular genetics laboratory work including but not limited to DNA extractions, PCR, sequencing applications, and quantitative PCR implementation + Sequencing, assembly, annotation and submission of mitochondrial genomes to GenBank + Designing and validating new quantitative PCR-based eDNA markers + Evaluating published eDNA markers for use in invasive species monitoring + Leading and collaborating cross-lab marker validation efforts with partners + Following, updating, and developing standard operating and quality control protocols to support project objectives + Updating genomic databases, documenting and reporting on progress + Completing data analysis and synthesis for reports, publications, and presentations The successful applicant will be required to meet internal reporting requirements and be expected to develop peer-reviewed manuscripts from the work. The project requires the individual to be motivated, have good time management, be well-organized, detail-oriented, and have the strong interpersonal skills required to work within a research team. Application: To be considered for this position, please submit a CV, a cover letter explaining your qualifications for this position, and three references with contact information. Application review will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. The Pennsylvania State University is committed to and accountable for advancing diversity, equity, inclusion, and sustainability in all of its forms. We embrace individual uniqueness, foster a culture of inclusion that supports both broad and specific diversity initiatives, leverage the educational and institutional benefits of diversity in society and nature, and engage all individuals to help them thrive. We value inclusion as a core strength and an essential element of our public service mission. CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS: Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here (https://police.psu.edu/annual-security-reports) . Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. EEO IS THE LAW Penn State is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer, and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. 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