postdoctoral fellowship available

[David S. Hibbett]

Postdoctoral position in molecular phylogenetics and macroevolution.

An NSF-funded postdoctoral position is available beginning in September,
1999, to study molecular phylogenetics and character evolution in
homobasidiomycete fungi.  Experience in fungal systematics is not
essential.  However, candiates must be familiar with phylogenetic theory
and molecular techniques.  Interests in creative analytical strategies for
large datasets and use of comparative methods would be beneficial.

Research will involve the development and analysis of multi-gene (rDNA and
protein) phylogenetic datasets and integration of large, overlapping
datasets through simultaneous analyses and supertree approaches.  Detailed,
comprehensive phylogenetic trees will be used in studies of character
evolution, using phylogenetic comparative methods.  The general goal of
this work is to understand causal factors and trends in the evolution of
ecological and morphological attributes of homobasidiomycetes.  A
particular focus concerns the evolution of mycorrhizal symbioses.  Analyses
of plant phylogenies, with regard to evolution of mycorrhizal symbioses,
will also be performed.

Research will be conducted primarily in the laboratory of David Hibbett
(Department of Biology, Clark University, Worcester, MA) in collaboration
with Michael Donoghue (Harvard University Herbaria, Cambridge, MA).  Three
years of support are available.  The anticipated salary is $27,000 in year
1 of the project, with annual increases of $1,000 (pending NSF approval of
revised budget).  For more information, please contact David Hibbett at
dhibbett at oeb.harvard.edu or (617) 496-3374 .  To apply, send a c.v.,
selected reprints or manuscripts (if available), and the names and e-mail
addresses of 2-3 references to David S. Hibbett, Harvard University
Herbaria, 22 Divinity Ave., Cambridge, MA 02138; Fax: (617) 495-9484.
Review of candidates will begin immediately.