Post Doc Res Assoc-Dearing Lab

Utah; Salt Lake City (UT); Hybrid; USD 56,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

University of Utah invites applications for a Post Doctoral Research Associate in the Denise Dearing Lab within the School of Biological Sciences. The position focuses on the evolution of mammalian detoxification systems and microbiome-driven adaptations to dietary toxins in herbivorous woodrats, with opportunities for collaboration and fieldwork.

The successful candidate will work on next-generation sequencing analyses, develop in-house libraries, and contribute to cross-disciplinary research

Qualifications

• PhD in genetics, genomics, evolutionary biology, microbiology or closely related field.
• Track record of research productivity with first-author publications.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Excellent written and oral English communication skills.
• Willingness to work with wild rodents and in the field.
• Expertise with next generation sequencing data and bioinformatics.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to research on mammalian detoxification and adaptation to dietary toxins.
• Collaborate with the lab across multiple groups and campuses.
• Prepare and analyze sequencing data and bioinformatics analyses.

Skills

English communication

Bioinformatics

Next-gen sequencing

Fieldwork

Independent work

Team collaboration

Education

PhD in genetics/genomics/evolutionary biology

Tools

R

Python

DNA/RNA library prep

Job description

Details

Open Date 10/02/2026

Requisition Number PRN46354B

Job Title Post Doc Res Assoc

Working Title Post Doc Res Assoc-Dearing Lab

Career Progression Track A00

Track Level

FLSA Code Administrative

Patient Sensitive Job Code? No

Standard Hours per Week 40

Full Time or Part Time? Full Time

Shift Day

Work Schedule Summary

TBD

VP Area Academic Affairs

Department 00116 - School of Biological Sciences

Location Campus

City Salt Lake City, UT

Type of Recruitment External Posting

Pay Rate Range $56,375 - $65,000

Close Date 12/04/2026

Priority Review Date (Note - Posting may close at any time)

Job Summary

A postdoctoral position is available in the laboratory of Dr. Denise Dearing in the School of Biological Sciences at the University of Utah. Our current research focuses on the evolution of the mammalian detoxification system and the mechanisms of adaptation to dietary toxins in herbivorous woodrats including the role of the microbiome. Please visit our website for more information about our research and the lab: https://www.dearinglab.comor email Denise Dearing [e-mail].

Responsibilities

The School of Biological Sciences comprises a wide variety and vibrant group of laboratories, with research interests ranging from environmental biology to biochemistry. The genetics, evolutionary biology and microbiome communities are strong at the University of Utah and offer numerous opportunities for collaboration. Cross campus interest groups in both evolutionary genomics and microbiome science are especially interactive.

Minimum Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in genetics, genomics, evolutionary biology, microbiology or a closely related field
• Track record of research productivity as evidenced in first-author publications
• Demonstrated ability and willingness to work both independently and collaboratively
• Excellent written and oral English communication skills
• Willingness to work with wild rodents and in the field
• Expertise with next generation sequencing data and associated bioinformatics

Preferences

Preferred qualifications:

Candidates should have a strong background in either evolutionary genetics/genomics including preparation of in-house DNA / RNA sequencing libraries or microbiome science, including 16SrRNA metabarcoding, metagenomics, isolation and culture. Prior analysis of high-throughput sequencing data and experience with R and Python required.

Type Benefited Staff

Additional Information

The University is a participating employer with Utah Retirement Systems (“URS”). Eligible new hires with prior URS service, may elect to enroll in URS if they make the election before they become eligible for retirement (usually the first day of work). Contact Human Resources at [phone] for information. Individuals who previously retired and are receiving monthly retirement benefits from URS are subject to URS’ post-retirement rules and restrictions. Please contact Utah Retirement Systems at [phone] or [phone] or University Human Resource Management at [phone] if you have questions regarding the post-retirement rules.

This position may require the successful completion of a criminal background check and/or drug screen.

The University of Utah values candidates who have experience working in settings with students and possess a strong commitment to improving access to higher education.

Veterans’ preference is extended to qualified applicants, upon request and consistent with University policy and Utah state law. Upon request, reasonable accommodations in the application process will be provided to individuals with disabilities.

Consistent with state and federal law, the University of Utah does not discriminate based upon race, ethnicity, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, pregnancy‑related conditions, genetic information, or protected veteran’s status. The University does not discriminate on the basis of sex in the education program or activity that it operates, as required by Title IX and 34 CFR part 106. The requirement not to discriminate in education programs or activities extends to admission and employment. Inquiries about the application of Title IX and its regulations may be referred to the Title IX Coordinator, to the Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights, or both.

To request a reasonable accommodation for a disability or if you or someone you know has experienced discrimination or sexual misconduct including sexual harassment, you may contact the Director/Title IX Coordinator in the Office of Equal Opportunity and Title IX ( OEO ). More information, including the Director/Title IX Coordinator’s office address, electronic mail address, and telephone number can be located at the:University of Utah Non‑Discrimination page.
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