BACKGROUND:
The Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture is seeking a postdoctoral associate to participate in an NSF-funded project to build new cyberinfrastructure for tree genomic and genetic data, including expanding the existing Hardwood Genomics database (http://hardwoodgenomics.org) and integration with TreeTaggr, a citizen science outreach effort (http://www.treetaggr.info). The project requires integration of datatypes such as genotypes, phenotypes and GIS coordinates. Development of new web modules will be within the Tripal software framework (http://tripal.info), which is based on Drupal content management system. The position will encompass activities such as writing PHP and javascript code, developing HTML and CSS templates, integrating biological and genomic data into databases, and building the user interface systems for scientists to view, download, search and manipulate data. The job will require teamwork with biologists and computer scientists as well as the ability to work independently. The successful applicant will be exposed to interdisciplinary, cutting edge research in the field of bioinformatics and will have the opportunity to expand their skill set and grow with this exciting field of science.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Design and build new php-based Tripal modules that meet Drupal and Tripal coding standards, and that allow upload, searching and display of genomic data types
• Use web services to transfer data between websites
• Use a mapping platform such as the Google Maps API to build an interactive online map of tree locations and associated data
• Install and improve existing Tripal modules to load large datasets and display results to users
• Contribute to the writing of scholarly publications

REQUIREMENTS:

• PhD in bioinformatics, computer science, molecular biology and/or the life sciences.
• Proficient in a Linux operating system environment with minimal systems support
• Demonstrated experience in PHP, Java or other programming language
• Experience with a database platform such as MySQL or PostgreSQL.
• Excellent communication and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to interact with scientists from diverse disciplines and backgrounds.
• Ability to work independently and to prioritize and manage a variety of tasks.

PREFERENCES:

• Experience in web site development.
• Experience in software development.
• Familiarity with web programming, particularly development of Drupal code modules
• Demonstrated experience in developing PHP code
• Familiarity with bioinformatics data sets such as genes, genomes, genetic maps, etc.
• Experience with using web-based map platforms such as the Google Maps API

TERMS:
Regular full time position with benefits

LOCALE:
The University of Tennessee, Knoxville Institute of Agriculture, AgResearch

COMPENSATION:
$50k based on qualifications and experience

HOW TO APPLY:
Required documents to apply: CV, transcripts, 2 professional references (upload as one PDF or DOC file)

Please apply online at https://ut.taleo.net/careersection/ut_knoxville/jobdetail.ftl?job=160000011F

Questions may directed to mstaton1 at utk dot edu, but applications will only be accepted via the University of Tennessee online application system.

DEADLINE:
Open until filled.

POLICY:
EEO/AA Statement /Non-Discrimination Statement:
The University of Tennessee is an EEO/AA/Title VI/Title IX/Section 504/ADA/ADEA institution in the provision of its education and employment programs and services. All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment without regard to, and will not be discriminated against on the basis of, race, color, national origin, religion, sex, pregnancy, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, or covered veteran status.

Inquiries and charges of violation of Title VI (race, color, national origin), Title IX (sex), Section 504 (disability), ADA (disability), ADEA (age), sexual orientation, or veteran status should be directed to the Office of Equity and Diversity (OED), 1840 Melrose Avenue, Knoxville, TN 37996-3560, telephone (865) 974-2498 (V/TTY available) or 974-2440. Requests for accommodation of a disability should be directed to the ADA Coordinator at the Office of Equity and Diversity.