Job Description

The Seekatz lab in the Department of Biological Sciences at Clemson University is seeking a postdoctoral fellow to work on projects investigating interactions between anaerobic gut microbes. Applicants with a desire to drive research projects related to the gut microbiota, with either experience in cultivation, genetics, and maintenance of anaerobic bacteria OR sequence-based analyses and bioinformatic skills, are encouraged to apply.

The Seekatz lab aims to characterize interactions between commensal Clostridia in the gut microbiome. We aim to identify metabolic, physiological, and adaptive factors that influence the colonization of gut commensals, such as those belonging to the Lachnospiraceae family. We use a combination of sequencing, in vitro experiments, and mouse models to understand the role of the gut microbiota in health and disease. The candidate would be expected to contribute to a project that uses both lab and bioinformatic techniques to understand how commensal microbes interact with the host and their environment. Ideally, the candidate has experience in a related research area (anaerobic cultivation or bioinformatics) with enthusiasm for learning complementary methods to conduct research related to the gut microbiota. Importantly, the individual should have the ability to progress research projects independently, excellent interpersonal skills, and solid organizational / management abilities. The position is NIH-funded, for at least 12 months, with potential for extension.

About Us:

For more information about the Seekatz lab, please visit the BioSci website https://www.clemson.edu/science/academics/departments/biosci/about/profiles/aseekat.

For more information about the department, please visit the website https://www.clemson.edu/science/academics/departments/biosci/.

For more information about Clemson, please visit the website http://www.clemson.edu/.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. degree in Microbiology or a relevant field of study
• Peer-reviewed publications

Preferred:

• Solid understanding of various microbiological systems, with an emphasis on microbiome-based fields
• Strong troubleshooting/problem solving and analytical skills
• Strong laboratory skills, with evidence of comprehensive notetaking
• Experience with at least one of the following methods: mouse models of disease, including germ-free / gnotobiotic handling; hands-on experience in next-generation sequencing preparation and analyses (metagenomic, amplicon-based, genomic, etc); anaerobic microbiology; bacterial genetics and/or physiology
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively
• Experience in project and data management
• Excellent oral / written communication and organizational skills, with the ability to work effectively to communicate findings/insights and meet commitments for deliverables

Application Instructions

For full consideration, applications should be submitted by September 30, 2026; however, the position will remain open until fulfilled.

Applicants should submit the following items via Interfolio at:

https://apply.interfolio.com/193639

(1) Cover Letter describing relevant research experience and motivation/interest in the posted position

(2) Curriculum Vitae

(3) Contact information (name, telephone number, and email address) for three professional references

For more information, please contact Anna Seekatz aseekat@clemson.edu.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Clemson University is an EEO/AA employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to characteristics protected by applicable law including disability and protected veteran status.