Post-doctoral fellowship in reproductive physiology
Shelly Grow
Date Posted: November 1, 2009
JOB OPENING
MEMPHIS ZOO
2000 PRENTISS PLACE
MEMPHIS, TN 38112
Post-Doctoral Fellowship in Reproductive Physiology
Job Description: The Memphis Zoo is seeking a post-doctoral fellow who will be responsible for coordinating and conducting reproductive research for endangered amphibians, under the general co-direction of the Director of Research and Conservation for the Memphis Zoo and Chair of the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at Mississippi State University. The applicant will work collaboratively with research units at Mississippi State University as part of this appointment and will be in residence at Mississippi State University (Starkville, MS). The applicant will be working with an interdisciplinary team of researchers, both at the Zoo and University, focused on developing assisted reproduction for the conservation of endangered amphibians. Responsibilities will include: develop and coordinate a reproductive research program for conservation of amphibians, centered on the creation of a genetic resource bank for endangered anurans, novel hormone protocols for sperm production and ovulation, in-vitro fertilization, cryopreservation of embryos and sperm, improving captive husbandry and reproduction; organize relevant amphibian field projects to complement the ex-situ reproductive research program; design and implement amphibian reproductive studies of interest to the candidate; husbandry and care of research amphibian collection; mentor and coordinate volunteers, graduate and undergraduate students involved with reproductive studies; provide assistance to all senior scientists, research associates, graduate students, and/or post-doctoral fellows in conducting investigations related to the zoo’s collection; manage their own laboratory; compile and maintain complete and accurate research and conservation records through database entry, design and management of data including statistical analysis; produce periodic progress reports, scientific publications and financial statements on the amphibian research program; interface with other Zoo staff and University faculty; present research findings both nationally and internationally; represent the Zoo and University at professional meetings and assist collaborators at other institutions; perform other related duties as assigned to support the mission of the research and conservation department and in order to achieve the goals, mission, and objectives of the Zoo and University. The term of this position is three (3) years and is supported by an Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) grant.
Requirements: a Ph.D. degree in Biology, Zoology, Animal Science or a related field with an emphasis on reproductive physiology; candidate should have a minimum of two (2) years experience with reproductive biotechnologies and a strong interest in amphibian conservation (no previous experience with amphibians necessary); high degree of motivation; multi-task orientation; high degree of organization; ability to work well in a group environment; ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing; ability to prepare written material and analyze data for reports; familiarity with use of Windows-based PCs and computer programs, to include a variety of word processing and database management computer programs, including Microsoft Word, Excel, Power Point, statistical programs, e-mail, and Internet research; familiarity with use of basic office equipment, which may include telephones, typewriters, fax machines, copiers, and other standard office equipment; ability to work indoors or outdoors in all types of weather conditions. The work schedule may include days, weekends, evenings, or holidays as needed and may require travel to other institutions, collaborating zoological parks, and/or universities in North America and internationally. We will consider any combination of education and experience which provides the necessary skills, knowledge and abilities. The term of this exempt grant-funded position is three (3) years and includes benefits. Apply by December 20, 2009. Applications may be downloaded from the Zoo’s website (www.memphiszoo.org), submitted at the Zoo, or mailed to the attention of Human Resources, Memphis Zoo, 2000 Prentiss Place, Memphis, TN 38112. Send a cover letter, resume or curriculum vitae, transcripts from graduate school, and the names and contact information of three (3) professional references. The cover letter should specifically address how previous experience addresses the skills and tasks required for this position. Walk-in interviews, phone calls, and email are not accepted. Applicants must be work-authorized individuals in the U.S., as specified by Form I-9, which includes a citizen of the U.S., a noncitizen national of the U.S., a lawful permanent resident, or an alien authorized to work until a certain expiration date. EOE
Shelly Grow
Conservation Biologist
Association of Zoos & Aquariums
8403 Colesville Road, Suite 710
Silver Spring, MD 20910
301-562-0777 x263
301-562-0888 fax
Check out AZA's special 2009 digital issue of CONNECT. Visit www.azaconnect.com and share it with friends.
Look for the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA) logo whenever you visit a zoo or aquarium as your assurance that you are supporting a facility dedicated to providing excellent care for animals, a great experience for you, and a better future for all living things. Find the great zoo or aquarium near you at www.aza.org/findzooaquarium.