M.S. Research Assistantship: Arthropod Vector Immunity
Brown Laboratory, Department of Biology, Georgia Southern University, Statesboro, GA, USA
Description: Two master’s research assistantship positions in flea immunology are available in the laboratory of Dr. Lisa D. Brown at Georgia Southern University. Specifically, the graduate student will work on a National Institutes of Health (NIH) funded project investigating the antibacterial responses of adult fleas, and determine the effect of larval ecology on adult immunity. The project involves a combination of organismal manipulations, flea bacterial infections, and immunological assays that involve both microbiology and molecular techniques. The student will be expected to lead a subset of this research for their M.S. thesis project. For more information on the work being conducted in the Brown laboratory, visit the laboratory’s website (http://ldbrownlaboratory.weebly.com/). The assistantship includes a full tuition waver and a competitive stipend for at least two years.
Qualifications: Required qualifications include (1) a B.S. in biology or a closely related field, (2) good interpersonal, written, and oral communication skills, (3) strong self- motivation and ability to work well independently and with a team, and (4) a clear interest in working with arthropod vectors. Preferred qualifications include (1) previous experience in a research laboratory, (2) laboratory techniques in microbiology and molecular biology, and (3) coursework in microbiology/entomology/genetics/bioinformatics. Candidates from groups underrepresented in biomedical research (see NOT-OD-20-031) are especially encouraged to apply.
Application: To apply, please submit the following as single pdf file: (1) a letter summarizing your background, research interests, and career goals, (2) a curriculum vitae, (3) names and contact information for two to three academic or professional references, and (4) an unofficial copy of your college transcript. Standardized testing (such as the GRE) is no longer required for admission to the GS graduate program.
Contact information: Applications and any other inquiries should be sent to Dr. Lisa D. Brown (ldbrown@georgiasouthern.edu). Review of applications will begin on the 31st of January, and will continue until the position is filled. The preferred start date is August 2024.
