Postdoc in Biosocial Science Lab focusing on Human Microbiome

Postdoctoral Associate position available for outstanding candidate in the Human Nature Lab (HNL) of Professor Nicholas Christakis, MD, PhD. Applicants with background in life sciences who are interested in the relevance of biological processes to social science topics are sought to strengthen HNL’s research portfolio in the biological underpinnings and sequelae of social phenomena. HNL, housed at the Yale Institute for Network Science, offers the opportunity for a flexible research agenda with strong mentorship in social and computational sciences.

Areas of interest include biological bases of human sociality; the role of the microbiome in human social phenotypes; the impact of social interactions on microbiome evolution; the biology and genetics of mate choice and social tie formation; social epigenetics; and similar topics. A good scholarly record and demonstrated ability to conduct challenging and innovative work are more important than specific content area within the biological sciences. The ideal candidate is one with a strong background in life sciences who is interested in social science, network science, or epidemiology.

The competitive candidate will have a Ph.D. in molecular biology, genetics, evolutionary biology, computational biology, systems biology, parasitology, neuroscience, or other relevant field; be able to undertake full-time research; have a solid record of independent research; and have working knowledge of relevant wet lab techniques. Strong analytical background and interest in interdisciplinary research are required. Candidates with a strong interest in biosocial research, and with interests that complement ongoing projects at HNL, especially related to microbiome research (http://humannaturelab.net/), will be given particular attention. 

Position is currently open. Those interested in starting in the summer or fall of 2020 are also encouraged to apply. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Send cover letter describing interests, CV, and at least two letters of recommendation (sent directly) via email: HNL-dot-admin at yale-dot-edu