A position is available in a Chile-Japan binational project, aiming to elucidate the mechanism of harmful algal blooms (HAB) formation which cause serious damages to coastal fishery in southern Chile in recent years (see project HP, https://www.mach-satreps.org/en/project/).

We are seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral fellow to study harmful algal bloom dynamics particularly from the point of view of environmental microbiology.

The position is part of the joint collaboration effort between Drs Gonzalo Gajardo (Department of Biological Sciences and Biodiversity, Universidad de Los Lagos, Osoro, Chile,  https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Gonzalo_Gajardo/research)

and Shoko Ueki (Institute of Plant Science and Resources, Okayama University, Kurashiki, Japan, https://loop.frontiersin.org/people/41223/publications , https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Shoko_Ueki4/research).

The successful candidate will be appointed by Okayama University as Postdoctoral research fellow, and conduct research in U Lagos (>90%, http://www.ulagos.cl ) and in Okayama U (http://www.rib.okayama-u.ac.jp ). The travels between the sites will be fully supported by the project.

We would like to recruit a young and motivated researcher to conduct research aimed at understanding the biological interactions between HAB-causing phytoplankton and environmental microbes (such as marine bacteria and viruses) in the process of red tide formation and decline. The research activity will include isolation/characterization of HAB-related phytoplankton and microbes, and evaluation of their biological interactions at cellular and molecular levels.

In addition, s/he will conduct weekly water sampling/environmental monitoring, environmental DNA extraction for metagenomic analyses, and outreach activities to public/industrial sectors that are mandatory of the project. The position is backed up by a full-time research technician.

Salary commensurable with expertise level of the individual, ranging between JPN 3,500,000 – 4,200,000 (at exchange rate 1 JPY = 6.2 Chilean Peso, CH$21,700,000 ~ 2,6040,000). For detail information, contact Dr Ueki (shokoueki@okayama-u.ac.jp).

Qualified candidates must have a Ph.D. degree with a strong background in microbiology, molecular biology, cell biology, and/or marine biology. Candidates must be self-motivated and possess strong communication/organizational skills along with a collaborative attitude. English proficiency is highly desired. Applicants should submit application packages that includes a cover letter, CV, publication list, up to three relevant prior publications, and contact information for three references to Dr Ueki, at shokoueki@okayama-u.ac.jp. Application package should be prepared in English.