The Friedman Lab
Ecology & evolution of microbial communities
We are interested in working with motivated students and postdoctoral researchers who want to understand general principles in ecology and evolution.​
Research in the lab is conceptual and question-driven. We use simplified microbial communities as model systems to ask fundamental questions about interactions, dynamics, and evolution. Projects typically involve thinking carefully about models, assumptions, and mechanisms, and often combine experiments with quantitative or theoretical approaches.
While our work can have practical implications, application is not the primary motivation for the research we do. We value curiosity, abstraction, and a willingness to engage with open-ended problems.
Who we are looking for
We are generally looking for people who:
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Are motivated by curiosity-driven research
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Enjoy conceptual and abstract thinking
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Are comfortable engaging with quantitative aspects of biology (broadly construed - not only data analysis)
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Value independence, continuous learning, and collaboration
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Prior experience in microbiology, evolution, ecology, or quantitative analysis is helpful, but motivation and curiosity matter more than a specific background.
About the lab’s focus
To help ensure a good fit:
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Our research is fundamental, not applied. We do not work directly on plant pathology or agricultural applications.
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Although our work is quantitative, this is not a bioinformatics lab. We use modeling and quantitative analysis to understand experimental systems, rather than focusing on large (genomic) datasets.
Positions and funding
The availability of funded positions depends on timing and external funding. At different times, we may have openings for undergraduates, MSc students, PhD students, or postdoctoral researchers.
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Prospective PhD and postdoctoral candidates are encouraged to consider applying for independent fellowships, and we are happy to discuss suitable options.
How to get in touch
If you are interested in joining the lab, email Jonathan with a brief description of your background, interests, and which aspects of the lab’s research you find most interesting (and why). Including a CV is helpful.
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To help me triage email efficeintly, please include the phrase "[Position Inquiry]" in the email's subject line (including the brackets).
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