We are seeking to fill several postdoc positions focused on the newly described process of pyrite reduction. Specifically, our project focuses on defining the mechanisms by which methanogens (and other organisms) reductively dissolve pyrite, how they assimilate dissolution products, and mechanisms of metal bioconcentration. We are particularly interested in the acquisition and bioaccumulation of thiophilic trace metals that are in high demand for renewable energy technologies from pyritic ores including nickel, cobalt, and molybdenum. We seek to add to our dynamic working environment to build integrated expertise that spans microbial physiology, biochemistry, electron microscopy, spectroscopy, omics approaches, electrochemistry, and geochemistry. Positions are open until filled.
The Hatzenpichler Environmental Microbiology Lab at Montana State University (Bozeman, MT) is looking for a postdoctoral researcher to join a collaborative project on the diversity, genomics, physiology, and ultrastructure of Asgard archaea and its implications for eukaryogenesis. This research project is part of an international collaboration between the Hatzenpichler lab and the groups of Brett Baker, Mark Ellisman, and Thijs Ettema. Together, we seek to obtain a comprehensive genetic catalog of Asgard archaea diversity, determine their physiology, and characterize their cellular ultrastructure. To achieve this, we will employ an array of “omics”, physiology, and microscopic approaches. Determining the identity of archaea most closely related to eukaryotes, their physiological interactions, and cellular structure will transform our understanding of eukaryogenesis. The postdoc will use a combination of cutting-edge next-generation physiology approaches targeted at Asgard archaea physiology and cell-cell (metabolic and physical) interactions. Approaches to be employed include stable isotope probing, substrate analog probing, fluorescence activated cell sorting, Raman micro-spectroscopy, different in situ visualization techniques, as well as genome analyses and targeted cultivation. The postdoc’s main objective will be to experimentally test genomic predictions on Asgard archaea physiology and cellular interactions, and (ideal case scenario) obtain an enrichment culture of an Asgard archaeon. The position will be available starting September 1st 2020 and will remain open until filled.
The Boyd Lab within the Department of Microbiology & Immunology at Montana State University seeks applications for three postdoctoral positions in the areas of microbial physiology and environmental microbiology. We seek to attract exceptional individuals to carry out cutting edge research on one of three recently funded projects: 1) Probing novel pathways of iron sulfur metabolism in model biocatalytic systems, with a focus on interactions between microorganisms and mackinawite/pyrite; 2) Quantifying physiological activity and biodiversity of endolithic microbes in actively serpentinizing rocks recently cored from the Samail Ophiolite, Oman; 3) Characterizing the role of the gut microbiome in mercury demethylation and methylmercury toxicity in humans. These projects are highly collaborative and by their nature, highly interdisciplinary. We seek candidates that are enthusiastic about learning and developing new techniques that integrate across physiological, genetic, voltammetric, proteomic, transcriptomic, bioinformatic, and biochemical disciplines. Potential candidates can contact Dr. Eric Boyd (eboyd@montana.edu) for more information.
The Department of Microbiology & Immunology at Montana State University invites applications for an Assistant/Associate Professor tenure-track faculty position in the field of environmental microbiology. Microorganisms drive global geochemical cycles and link critical ecosystem processes influencing plant, animal, and environmental health. We seek to attract an exceptional individual to establish a nationally recognized, externally funded research program aimed at understanding the dynamic interactions between microbial life and the environment, to teach both undergraduate and graduate students through development of innovative courses, and to participate in professional/service activities. We are particularly interested in individuals whose work complements and strengthens the research interests of MSU faculty, including those focused on microbial physiology and ecology, molecular evolution, virology, biomedical microbiology, environmental health, and host-pathogen interactions. Screening of applications will begin on February 1, 2019; however, applications will continue to be accepted until an adequate applicant pool has been established.
Roland Hatzenpichler and his colleagues will board a submersible in November that will take them down 6,500 feet to the bottom of Guaymas Basin in the Gulf of California to extract core samples of the hydrothermally active microbe-rich sediments found there. The scientists plan to use newly developed technology to research the samples to gain a better understanding of what microbes live in the sediments and what role they play in breaking down and converting carbon.
Featuring C-DEBI researcher Alexander Michaud.
BOZEMAN — Even as Montana State University scientists gear up for another epic expedition in Antarctica, they continue to publish new findings from their last one. In their latest paper, they reveal the discovery of a large supply of methane and the surprising way that nature keeps it from entering the atmosphere.
In 2013, a U.S. team of scientists drilled half a mile through the West Antarctic Ice Sheet to explore one of Earth’s final frontiers — a subglacial lake that has been covered by ice for hundreds of thousands of years.
The Hatzenpichler Lab at Montana State University, Bozeman, is looking for a postdoctoral scholar to study the spatial organization of microbial activity in marine sediments. Specifically, we seek to analyze the identity, 3d distribution, and cell-cell interactions of metabolically active microbes in salt marsh and deep-sea sediments. The postdoc will use a unique combination of cutting-edge techniques, including bioorthogonal labeling of translationally active cells, stable isotope probing and Raman micro-spectroscopy, as well as sorting and sequencing of individual metabolically active cells. The position will be available starting Sept. 1st 2017, is funded for 24 months, and will include full benefits. More information about the position and details on how to apply can be found at www.environmental-microbiology.com.
Featuring C-DEBI scientist Alex Michaud.
Excerpt:
Research from three Montana State University students has contributed to a broader understanding of the makeup of a large, ancient lake sealed off from the atmosphere for thousands of years under 2,600 feet of the West Antarctic Ice Sheet.
A recent National Science Foundation press released pulled together research from three institutions published in three scientific journals. The cumulative research provides the first look into the biogeochemisty, geophysics and geology of Subglacial Lake Whillans. The findings stem from the Whillans Ice Stream Subglacial Access Research Drilling (WISSARD) project funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF).