Assistant Research Professor

The successful candidate will be responsible for leading a USDA ARS funded project on Newcastle disease of chickens.

The successful candidate will be responsible for leading a USDA ARS funded project on Newcastle disease of chickens. The objectives of the project are:

• To improve and develop rapid identification assays for virulent Newcastle disease virus (NDV) strains and use on samples collected from poultry in high-risk areas
• To develop a risk assessment for virulent NDV evolution and the rate of genetic change while under vaccine-induced immune pressure
• Develop vaccines and vaccination regimens for current epidemiologically relevant NDV strains.  

The research assistant professor will take the lead on Objective 1 and contribute to Objective 3. He will also eventually take over the administrative tasks. In addition, the successful candidate will mentor graduate students and produce scholarship through recognized peer-reviewed outlets, secure further extramural funding to support his/her research program from external sources such as USDA-NIFA, NSF and other related federal sponsors, and from relevant industries in Alabama and across the country.

Minimum Qualifications include all of the following:

• An earned Ph.D. and/or DVM degree in diseases of poultry and/or virology at the time of employment.
• Research experience and demonstrable ability to independently develop, conduct, and publish research commensurate with the candidate’s experience.
• Excellent English-speaking and writing skills coupled with the ability to effectively interact with scientific and professional audiences, deliver educational materials, and mentor graduate students.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and the demonstrated ability to work cooperatively with other faculty, students, and industry professionals.
• Demonstrated or potential ability to secure extramural research funding commensurate with the candidate’s experience. 
• Candidates must meet eligibility requirements to work in the United States at the time of appointment and continue working legally for the term of employment.

Desired Qualifications:

• Experience with Newcastle disease virus.

• Life-Changing Impact: Our work changes lives through research, instruction, and outreach, making a lasting impact on our students, our communities, and the world.
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