Postdoctoral Research Scientist �Lichens

Field Museum • Chicago, IL

1d • $61,462 • Onsite

About The Position

The Grainger Bioinformatics Center of the Collections, Conservation, and Research Division at the Field Museum is seeking a highly motivated and skilled Postdoctoral Research Associate for a full-time, two-year term position, with the possibility of extension. This privately funded (non-government) position focuses on advancing research in the comparative genomics and population genomics/phylogenomics of lichen symbioses, particularly involving non-model organisms and complex symbiotic systems. This position offers an exciting opportunity to explore evolutionary diversification, population structure, and genomic adaptation in lichens, with an emphasis on fungal symbionts and their interactions with algal and bacterial partners. The research leverages whole-genome sequencing, target enrichment, and RADseq to investigate co-evolution, genomic convergence, and ecological specialization across taxonomic and geographic scales.

Requirements

• PhD in bioinformatics, computational biology, evolutionary biology, or a related discipline.
• Proven experience in genomic data analysis, especially in comparative or population genomics.
• Proficiency in one or more scripting languages (e.g., Python, R, Perl, Bash).
• Familiarity with standard bioinformatics pipelines for sequence analysis, genome assembly, and variant analysis.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work both independently and in a collaborative, interdisciplinary environment.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with RADseq, target enrichment, or metagenomic sequencing approaches.
• Background in fungal biology, lichenology, or symbiotic systems.
• Interest in molecular evolution, non-model organisms, and integrative evolutionary analysis.

Responsibilities

• Analyze genomic datasets, including assembly, annotation, and comparative analysis of symbiont genomes.
• Develop and apply workflows for phylogenomic inference, population structure analysis, and species delimitation.
• Collaborate on sequencing, data integration, and interpretation of multi-omic datasets.
• Contribute to manuscript writing, presentations, and broader dissemination of research outcomes.
• Participate in mentoring and training undergraduate students, particularly those from underrepresented groups in STEM fields.

Benefits

• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Including medical, dental, vision plans, and even pet insurance.
• Financial Security: Life and disability benefits plus a 403(b) savings plan to help you plan for the future.
• Work-Life Balance: Generous paid time off, paid sick leave, and paid holidays to ensure you have time to recharge and spend with loved ones.
• Exclusive Perks: Enjoy great employee discounts and complimentary general admission to participating cultural institutions.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree
• Number of Employees: 251-500 employees