School: Faculty of Arts and Sciences

Department/Area: Organismic and Evolutionary Biology

Position Description:

• Sample collection from diverse, extant marine species (yes, that means some museum and fieldwork!).
• Comparative analysis using advanced computational tools and wet lab techniques.
• Hands-on dissections of invertebrates for anatomical and physiological studies.
• Leading data analysis, contributing to research dissemination, and mentoring lab members along the way.

• Conduct phylogenetic and molecular analyses to track venom evolution in cephalopods using bioinformatics and comparative phylogenetic methods.
• Lead the dissection and histological analysis of marine specimens – sample preparation, sectioning (microtome, vibratome, and cryostat), various histological staining techniques.
• Design and perform wet lab experiments including immunohistochemistry, in-situ hybridization chain reaction (HCR), RNA extraction, PCR, RT-qPCR, and confocal microscopy.
• Collaborate with team members and contribute to data interpretation and publication efforts.
• Participate in fieldwork, museum specimen collection, and outreach activities.
• Share your expertise by training lab members and contributing to the overall lab culture.

• Duration: 1 year with the possibility of extension up to 3 years based on performance.
• Start Date: September 1st, 2025.
• Location: Harvard University, Cambridge, MA.

Basic Qualifications:

• A PhD in biology, chemical biology, ecology, environmental science, conservation biology, or a related field by the time of appointment.
• Strong experience in marine biology, evolution, development, or a closely related field with a proven track record of scientific publications and conference presentations.

Additional Qualifications:

• A curious, creative mind with a passion for marine organisms, venoms, fieldwork, and scientific discovery.
• You'll thrive in a collaborative, dynamic lab environment where intellectual exploration and innovation are at the core of everything we do.

Contact Information:

Contact Email: holfordlab01@gmail.com

Special Instructions:

1. A curriculum vitae (CV).
2. A 2-3 page cover letter detailing your research interests, experience, and why you're excited about this position.
3. Names and contact details of three professional references.

Equal Opportunity Employer:

About Harvard University

Harvard University is devoted to excellence in teaching, learning, and research, and to developing leaders in many disciplines who make a difference globally. The University, which is based in Cambridge and Boston, Massachusetts, has an enrollment of over 20,000 degree candidates, including undergraduate, graduate, and professional students. Harvard has more than 360,000 alumni around the world. The University has twelve degree-granting Schools in addition to the Radcliffe Institute for Advanced Study, offering a truly global education. Established in 1636, Harvard is the oldest institution of higher education in the United States.

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