POSITION DESCRIPTION: The successful candidate will work under the guidance of Prof. Mariel Vazquez on an NSF grant project that studies RNA-DNA hybrid formation and topological structure. This is a collaborative project with Professors Frederic Chedin (https://chedinlab.faculty.ucdavis.edu) and Natasa Jonoska (https://knot.math.usf.edu//). The chosen individual will conduct mathematical and computational modeling of R-loop formation and of R-loop structure. Additionally, the candidate will be expected to interact closely with experimental scientists in the Chedin lab. Keeping accurate and detailed records of all the research and critically evaluating the scientific progress of the project are integral parts of the job. The postdoc will assist the PIs in presentations and publications as needed and will actively participate in weekly group meetings and journal clubs. The postdoc will receive close mentoring, will be encouraged to pursue independent funding and have access to career development opportunities.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS: We seek a highly motivated individual with a PhD in mathematics, statistics, biophysics, or related field with interest and experience in molecular biology and data science. Recruitment will be initiated by Vazquez, in consultation with the co-PIs (Chedin at UC Davis and Jonoska at USF). The postdoctoral researcher will receive mentoring from the three PIs, with Vazquez as the primary and official mentor, with a focus on mathematical methods necessary for the modeling of R-loop formation and of R-loop structure. The emphasis of this project is on understanding the topology and geometry of R-loops. A background in knot theory, applied topology and strong computational skills are desirable. The successful candidate will have excellent presentation and writing skills and a collaborative spirit. Previous experience in pursuing independent funding will be valued. The topological molecular biology laboratory at UC Davis uses a combination of mathematical, computational and experimental methods to determine the structure of nucleic acids with an emphasis on DNA packing, the molecular mechanisms of recombination, and RNA-DNA hybrids. For more information please visit https://arsuaga-vazquez-lab.faculty.ucdavis.edu.

SALARY RANGE: $54,540-$63,036 [100% annual], commensurate with qualifications and experience. POSITION AVAILABLE/CLOSING DATE: To guarantee full consideration, the application should be received by November 15, 2021. Starting date is flexible, with a target of April 1st, 2022. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

TERM OF APPOINTMENT: This one-year appointment is based on the needs of the research project. The appointment is renewable for up to 2.5 years, upon demonstration of satisfactory performance in research and teaching.

Applications include: Cover Letter, CV, Research Statement, Letters of Reference, and an optional Statement of Contributions to Diversity. All letters will be treated as confidential per University of California policy and California state law.

Questions: Please direct questions to: Dr. Mariel Vazquez, mrlvazquez@ucdavis.edu. Additional information about the Departments may be found at https://mmg.ucdavis.edu and http://www.math.ucdavis.edu.

The University of California, Davis commits to inclusion excellence by advancing equity, diversity and inclusion in all that we do. We are an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity employer, and particularly encourage applications from members of historically underrepresented racial/ethnic groups, women, individuals with disabilities, veterans, LGBTQ community members, and others who demonstrate the ability to help us achieve our vision of a diverse and inclusive community. Under Federal law, the University of California may employ only individuals who are legally able to work in the United States as established by providing documents as specified in the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986. Certain UC Davis positions funded by federal contracts or sub-contracts require the selected candidate to pass an E-Verify check. More information is available http://www.uscis.gov/e-verify.

UC Davis is a smoke & tobacco-free campus (http://breathefree.ucdavis.edu/). If you need accommodation due to a disability, please contact the recruiting department.

**The University of California has implemented a SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) Vaccination Program covering all employees. To be compliant with the policy, employees must submit proof of vaccination or a University-approved exemption of deferral**

APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS Document requirements ● Cover Letter ● Curriculum Vitae - Your most recently updated C.V., including list of publications ● Statement of Research ● Statement of Contributions to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (Optional) - Contributions to diversity, equity, and inclusion documented in the application file will be used to evaluate applicants. Visit https://academicaffairs.ucdavis.edu/faculty-equity-and-inclusion for guidelines about writing a statement and why one is requested.

Reference requirements: 3 required

JOB LOCATION: Davis, CA