Postdoctoral Researcher

Louisiana State University

6d • Onsite

About The Position

This position is for a Postdoctoral Researcher to conduct computational genomic research as part of an NSF-funded project focused on resolving a taxonomically complete phylogeny of parrots using whole-genome data. The candidate will lead genomic analyses to infer a phylogeny including more than 700 parrot taxa using whole-genome data. The candidate will also help supervise graduate and undergraduate students on their research projects, participate in and organize field expeditions, and contribute to the curation and maintenance of the LSUMNS Collection of Genetic Resources. The candidate will conduct research in collaboration with Dr. Gregory Thom and other members of the Louisiana State University Museum of Natural Science (LSUMNS) community.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Biology, Genetics, Evolutionary Biology, Ecology, Zoology or a closely related discipline.
• Extensive experience with programming languages and modern bioinformatic and phylogenomic tools.
• Good background generating peer-reviewed publications.
• Experience with genome evolution, ornithology and genomics wet-lab.
• Valid U.S. work authorization at the time of hire and maintain that valid work authorization throughout employment.

Nice To Haves

• Publication record that reflects career stage in the field of Evolutionary Biology and Ornithology.
• Demonstrated experience in analyzing population genomic data to explore neutral and/or adaptive processes.
• Field experience (not required).

Responsibilities

• Conduct computational genomic research as part of an NSF-funded project focused on resolving a taxonomically complete phylogeny of parrots using whole-genome data.
• Process and evaluate genomic datasets.
• Characterize genomic features that influence phylogenetic signal.
• Develop large-scale phylogenomic analyses for more than 700 parrot taxa.
• Prepare and publish manuscripts associated with the main research projects.
• Participate in field expeditions.
• Collaborate with colleagues at the LSUMNS and Department of Biological Sciences.
• Assist graduate and undergraduate students and staff as needed.
• Pursue funding opportunities.
• Help the PI generate preliminary data for federal grant proposals.
• Contribute to the LSUMNS academic community by attending seminars, participating in departmental activities, and hosting visiting researchers.
• Mentor and supervise the work of graduate students.
• Work in collaboration with external investigators and finish projects started in other labs as agreed with the PI.
• Promote and participate in LSUMNS outreach programs.
• Assist the curators of genetic resources in the upkeep and growth of the collection.
• Database management.
• Develop techniques to improve reliability and effectiveness of collection and vouchering of specimens.
• Collecting and preparing biological material.
• Supervise graduate and undergraduate students on their research projects.
• Participate in and organize field expeditions.
• Contribute to the curation and maintenance of the LSUMNS Collection of Genetic Resources.

Benefits

• health, life, dental, and vision insurance
• flexible spending accounts
• retirement options
• various leave options
• paid holidays
• wellness benefits
• tuition exemption for qualified positions
• training and development opportunities
• employee discounts

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree