Open positions in the Chaverri Mycology Lab

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We are recruiting a Postdoctoral Researcher to join a recently NSF-funded project investigating the effects of bat seed dispersal on plant microbiomes and pathogen dynamics in tropical ecosystems. This interdisciplinary project combines microbial ecology (fungal and bacterial), plant-microbe-animal interactions, and plant pathology. Co-principal investigators are Dr. Gloriana Chaverri (University of Costa Rica and Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute, https://www.batcr.com/) and Dr. Max Chavarría (University of Costa Rica and National Center for Biotechnological Innovations, https://www.chavarrialab.com/).

 

Postdoctoral Researcher

The postdoc will contribute to all phases of the research, including: microbial community profiling using high-throughput sequencing (ITS, 16S), bioinformatic analysis, greenhouse-based seedling monitoring and microbiome tracking, fieldwork and sample processing in Costa Rica (frequent travel required), mentoring undergraduate and Master’s students at BSU, and assisting in developing and teaching undergraduate courses and Course-based Undergraduate Research Experiences (CUREs).

Minimum Qualifications

• PhD in biology, microbiology, ecology, plant pathology, plant sciences, or a related field (by time of appointment).

• Demonstrated experience in bioinformatics and microbiome analysis.

• Willingness and ability to travel to Costa Rica multiple times per year.

Preferred Qualifications

• Interest in undergraduate teaching and mentorship

• Field research experience

• Experience in ecology, fungal, bacterial, or plant-associated microbiomes

• Spanish proficiency (preferred, not required)

• Experience handling bats or similar animals (a plus)

Start Date: January 2026 (flexible)

Duration: 2 years (renewable to an additional year pending satisfactory performance)

Support: The position includes a competitive salary plus benefits, research expenses, and coverage of travel to Costa Rica and professional conferences. 

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How to apply?

Submit:

(1) a cover letter with a short statement of research interests and relevant experience,

(2) full CV,

(3) PhD transcripts, and

(4) names and contact info for 3 references.

**Incomplete applications will not be reviewed.

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Send materials and inquiries to Priscila Chaverri (pchaverri at bowiestate.edu).

 

Review of applications for the postdoc will begin July 15, 2025 and continue until the position is filled.​​