Research Associate - Biology

University of Wisconsin Stout•Whitewater, WI

About The Position

The Department of Biology in the College of Letters and Sciences at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater seeks a postdoctoral fellow to begin in August 2026. This National Science Foundation-funded position studies circadian gene regulation of metabolism and gene expression during dorsal mesoderm specification in Xenopus laevis. The project builds on findings that circadian genes bmal1 and rev-erba affect the metabolic shift during dorsal mesoderm specification. The role is divided between research (75%) and teaching and mentoring undergraduate students (25%). The successful candidate will support the principal investigator’s grant research, publish results, mentor undergraduate researchers, and write grant proposals. Teaching includes introductory biology lecture and laboratory courses and developmental biology. The candidate will be trained in embryological and molecular genetic methods, including CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing, luciferase-based assays, RNA-Seq, bioinformatics, microinjection, and microdissection of Xenopus embryos. Training in pedagogical techniques is also provided through university workshops and programs and individual mentoring by the principal investigator. The PI will support career development through publication opportunities, access to reagents and resources and transgenic lines, grant-writing support, and attendance at professional meetings. The position requires a Ph.D. in Biology. ABD applicants may apply, but the degree must be completed by the contract start date in August 2026; otherwise, they may be hired on a one-year contract with the expectation of completing the degree before January 2027. Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States at hire and maintain authorization throughout the employment term. The university does not offer H-1B or other work-authorization visa sponsorship and is not an E-Verify employer. This is a terminal, fixed-term postdoctoral position. Well-qualified candidates can expect a starting annual salary of $45,000–$50,000, commensurate with education, related experience, and qualifications. UW System employees receive a comprehensive benefits package. Applications received by December 4, 2026, are ensured full consideration.

Requirements

Ph.D. in Biology required. ABD candidates may apply if the degree is completed by the August 2026 contract start date; otherwise, the degree must be completed before January 2027 under a one-year contract.
Demonstrated interest in teaching at the undergraduate level.
Ability to communicate complex information effectively, verbally and in writing, to inclusive audiences.
Ability to work effectively both independently and collaboratively with a team.
Ability to interact respectfully with people from diverse socioeconomic, cultural, and ethnic backgrounds.
Willingness and ability to actively follow applicable safety rules and regulations, including required training and drills.
Legal authorization to work in the United States at the time of hire and throughout the employment term.

Nice To Haves

Experience in developmental biology, cell biology, physiology, or molecular genetics.
Experience in RNA-Seq, CRISPR-Cas9, and bioinformatics.

Responsibilities

Conduct research on circadian gene regulation of metabolism and gene expression during dorsal mesoderm specification in Xenopus laevis.
Support the principal investigator’s grant-funded research.
Teach introductory biology lecture and laboratory courses and developmental biology.
Mentor undergraduate research students.
Publish research results.
Write grant proposals.
Ensure materials are digitally accessible and use standard university technology platforms, including Navigate, Canvas, and Microsoft Office applications.