Research Associate in Biology

University of Virginia • Charlottesville, VA

7d • $60,000 - $65,000 • Hybrid

About The Position

The Department of Biology at the University of Virginia (UVA) invites applications for a postdoctoral Research Associate with expertise in bioinformatics, evolutionary genomics, and population genetics to work in the lab of Dr. Drew Schield. The Research Associate will join a collaborative team investigating speciation, adaptation, and sex chromosome evolution using genome-scale datasets. The researcher will lead in generating and analyzing long-read genome assemblies for populations of rattlesnakes (Crotalus) that exchange gene flow in secondary contact. These data will be used in pangenome graph analysis to address questions related to nucleotide and structural variation underlying adaptive trait evolution, sex chromosome structural diversity, and the roles of structural variants in complex speciation with gene flow. They will also have the opportunity to lead projects leveraging substantial whole genome sequencing and RNAseq data available in the lab, and to participate in annual collecting trips in the field. Specific project directions are flexible so as to enhance the researcher’s interests and career goals while building on existing expertise in the lab.

Requirements

• PhD degree in Biology or a related field by the start date of the appointment.
• Excellent bioinformatics skills for processing and analysis of large genomic datasets.
• Knowledge of population genetics analyses, especially those related to demographic inference, identifying signatures of selection, and detecting hybridization and introgression.
• Self-driven.
• Excellent data management skills.
• Demonstrate verbal and written communication skills.
• Able to work with a collaborative team.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with genome assembly and annotation.
• Molecular laboratory skills associated with DNA and RNA extraction, library preparation.
• Ability to troubleshoot and refine protocols.
• A record of scientific productivity.

Responsibilities

• Generate and analyze long-read genome assemblies for populations of rattlesnakes (Crotalus).
• Lead efforts in pangenome graph analysis to address questions related to nucleotide and structural variation underlying adaptive trait evolution, sex chromosome structural diversity, and the roles of structural variants in complex speciation with gene flow.
• Lead projects leveraging whole genome sequencing and RNAseq data.
• Participate in annual collecting trips in the field.
• Mentor graduate and undergraduate students.
• Design and lead research integrating field, molecular, and computational components.
• Prepare conference presentations and publications.
• Gain teaching experience to the extent that it matches their career goals.

Benefits

• Access to training opportunities through collaborations with other labs.
• Access to groups within the Evolution, Ecology, and Behavior community at UVA.
• Information on benefits available to a Research Associate at UVA can be found at hr.virginia.edu/benefits.

What This Job Offers

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