Post Doctoral Research Associate- Ecology & Evolutionary Biology: UTK

Job Description: The research will include the development of approaches to characterize DNA from complex, degraded, and potentially mixed-source samples. Sample types will include, but are not limited to, sedimentary (sedaDNA) and other ancient DNA recovered from archaeological contexts. The research forms part of interdisciplinary projects that combine genomic analyses with perspectives from biocultural anthropology, species ecology, and related fields. The successful candidate will help integrate these approaches to investigate past and present relationships between people, other organisms, and their environments. The candidate will undertake laboratory work in both a state-of-the-art ancient DNA facility and a contemporary DNA laboratory. The position offers opportunities to develop and apply molecular methods, conduct bioinformatic analyses, and contribute to interdisciplinary research using ancient and contemporary DNA.

Education: PhD in Evolutionary Biology or a closely related field.

Experience: Experience conducting genomic research and large-data analysis. Strong background in genomics and bioinformatics. Experience designing experiments and collecting quantitative biological data Experience using Bash/Unix/Python for large-data processing Evidence of scientific productivity through peer-reviewed publications appropriate to career stage Excellent written and oral communication skills Interest in mentoring students and contributing to a collaborative laboratory environment Knowledge, Skills, Abilities: Demonstrated ability to work independently and collaboratively, communicate scientific findings effectively, manage research projects, and contribute to a positive laboratory environment. Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without need now or in the future for sponsorship for employment-based visa status.

Location: Knoxville, TNOnsiteCompensation and Benefits

Application Instructions: Please send the following materials to Dr. Alida de Flamingh (adeflami@utk.edu):Curriculum vitae A cover letter that includes: The candidate's educational background and prior research experience, Current research focus and future research goals, including what topic(s) they hope to pursue as a postdoc in the WIGL LabPerceived competencies and experience in relevant skills, including molecular wet-lab work, scientific writing, coding/bioinformatics, statistical analysis, and experimental methods, What they hope to gain from this position and how it will support their long-term development as a scientist Two letters of recommendation emailed by your recommender directly to Dr. Alida de Flamingh (adeflami@utk.edu)A PDF of a first-author publication (published or in press)

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