Postdoctoral Research Fellow – Vector-Borne Disease & Protozoan Pathogenesis

Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine (RUSVM) is the number one provider of Doctors of Veterinary Medicine (DVMs) to the U.S.* and offers a DVM program that is accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association Council on Education. Located on St. Kitts, RUSVM includes the Ross University Veterinary Clinic and is accredited by the American Animal Hospital Association. A cutting-edge curriculum, with innovative use of technologies and simulations, provides the best possible training for tomorrow’s veterinarians.  
 
RUSVM prepares students to become veterinary leaders by drawing connections among animals, people and the planet, as a member of the One Health Initiative. We offer research programs focused on emerging infectious and zoonotic diseases, conservation medicine and ecosystem health. Visit veterinary.rossu.edu for more information, and follow RUSVM on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn. 

*Based on the total number of DVM graduates at RUSVM compared to U.S. schools in 2024. 

Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine (RUSVM) invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Fellowship that will offer a unique opportunity to split time between two complementary projects in vector-borne disease ecology and molecular protozoology.

This position is ideal for a motivated scientist interested in advancing research on tick microbiomes and pathogen transmission while also contributing to molecular, genomic, and proteomic studies of Trichomonas tenax — a zoonotic protozoan associated with periodontal disease.

About the Fellowship

The fellow will work closely with two experienced supervisory teams:

• Tick Microbiome Project Supervisors:
  Dr. Samson Mukaratirwa, Dr. Ricardo Gutierez, Dr. Munetsi Tagwireyi,

(Externals: Dr. Sylvester Kofi, Dr. Karla Georges, Dr. Raysa Reyes Santiago, Dr. Yussaira Castillo)

• Trichomonas tenax Project Supervisor:
  Dr. Chaoqun Yao

This dual-focus fellowship provides access to cutting-edge laboratory facilities, field opportunities, and rich datasets to address urgent questions in pathogen transmission, microbiome ecology, and molecular pathogenesis.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and conduct microbiome analyses on Amblyomma variegatum ticks, including field collection, dissection, and genomic sequencing.
• Perform long-read sequencing, genome assembly, and bioinformatic analysis of T. tenax.
• Analyze proteome and transcriptome data, including exosome characterization and cysteine protease identification.
• Prepare and submit a minimum of 4 peer-reviewed manuscripts over the 2-year term (two per project).
• Present findings at national and international scientific conferences.
• Lead and contribute to intramural and extramural grant applications.
• Supervise and mentor MSc, PhD, and DVM research students and volunteers.

Essential Qualifications

• PhD in one or more of the following areas: molecular biology, microbiology, bioinformatics, parasitology, genetics, cell biology, or related fields.
• Demonstrated expertise in genomics, proteomics, and/or microbiome analysis.
• Proven track record of research productivity (publications, conference presentations).
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team.

Preferred Skills

• Experience with long-read sequencing platforms (e.g., Oxford Nanopore).
• Strong bioinformatics skills (genome assembly, proteome/transcriptome analysis).
• Proficiency in fieldwork techniques related to tick collection and dissection.
• Excellent communication skills (written and verbal).

Opportunities and Training

• Professional development through grant writing, publication mentorship, and conference presentations.
• Cross-disciplinary exposure to vector biology, pathogen genomics, and host-pathogen interactions.
• Access to collaborative networks across the Caribbean and internationally.

Submit the following materials:

• Cover letter (max 2 pages) detailing research experience & interest in both project areas.
• CV with a complete list of publications.
• Reference information will also be requested from 3 referees.

Equal Opportunity – Minority / Female / Disability / V / Gender Identity / Sexual Orientation