Postdoctoral Research Associate

Davita Inc.; Fort Worth (TX); On-site; USD 59,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading university in Texas is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate for its Center for Human Identification to advance forensic DNA techniques. The position involves innovative research on degraded human remains and requires expertise in forensic genetics, NGS, and mentoring. Join a committed team dedicated to human identification, contributing to the field's advancement with a focus on cutting-edge methodologies.

Qualifications

• Strong foundation in forensic genetics required.
• Demonstrated record of peer-reviewed publications.
• Commitment to emerging technologies.

Responsibilities

• Design and manage research projects on DNA recovery.
• Collaborate on multidisciplinary projects.
• Present findings at national and international conferences.

Skills

Expertise in processing skeletal remains for DNA analysis

Proficient in DNA extraction techniques

Experience with Next Generation Sequencing (NGS)

Knowledge of mitochondrial DNA analysis

Mentoring experience in research

Education

Doctoral degree

Job description

Title: Postdoctoral Research Associate

Employee Classification: Postdoctoral Research Assoc.

Campus: University of North Texas - Health Science Center

Division: HSC-Div of Rsrch & Innovation

SubDivision-Department: HSC-Health Institutes & Centers

Department: HSC-Center for Human ID-304600

Job Location: Fort Worth

Salary: $59,000 - $65,000

FTE: 1.000000

Retirement Eligibility:

About Us - Values Overview:

Welcome to the University of North Texas System. The UNT System includes the University of North Texas in Denton and Frisco, the University of North Texas at Dallas and UNT Dallas College of Law, and the University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth. We are the only university system based exclusively in the robust Dallas-Fort Worth region. We are growing with the North Texas region, employing more than 14,000 employees, educating a record 49,000+ students across our system, and awarding nearly 12,000 degrees each year.

We are one team comprised of individuals who are committed to excellence, curiosity and innovation. We are transforming lives and creating economic opportunity through education. We champion a people-first values-based culture where We Care about each other and those we serve. We believe that we are Better Together because we foster an environment of respect, belonging, and access for all. We demonstrate Courageous Integrity through setting exceptional standards and acting in the best interest of our communities. We are encouraged to Be Curious about opportunities for learning, creating, discovering, and innovating, and are encouraged to learn from failure. Show Your Fire by joining our team and exhibiting your passion and pride in your work as part of our UNT System team.

Learn more about the UNT System and how we live our values at www.UNTSystem.edu.

Department Summary

The Center for Human Identification (CHI) is an accredited forensic laboratory located on the campus of The University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth. With funding from the state of Texas and various Federal Government agencies, CHI supports DNA testing, forensic genetic genealogy, anthropological examinations, CODIS operations, forensic training, and cutting-edge research and development initiatives. CHI also manages the Texas Missing Persons DNA Database.

Position Overview

The Center for Human Identification (CHI) is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate for a forensic DNA research laboratory focused on the application of advanced techniques for the analysis of highly degraded human remains. The selected candidate will be responsible for developing and implementing innovative approaches to human identification, with an emphasis on the application of ancient DNA techniques. This position requires a strong foundation in forensic genetics, as well as a demonstrated commitment to staying at the forefront of emerging technologies and methodologies in the field.

Minimum Qualifications

Doctoral degree. If not yet conferred, a letter from the school's official Graduate Office and/or Registrar's Office certifying that all requirements have been met and stating the degree conferral date can be accepted. Employees in this job may be responsible for conducting research on, working on, or having the ability to access critical organizational infrastructure and they must be able to maintain the security and integrity of the infrastructure related to this role.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Expertise in processing skeletal remains for DNA analysis, including preparation of bone and tooth samples


• Proficient in a variety of DNA extraction techniques, particularly those tailored to ancient or highly degraded samples (e.g., Dabney et al., Loreille et al.)


• Demonstrated experience performing traditional STR typing on challenging skeletal remains, such as those that are degraded, environmentally exposed, or chemically altered.


• Hands-on experience with Next Generation Sequencing (NGS), including the MiSeq FGx platform, Illumina chemistries, and the use of custom sequencing panels.


• Experience with mitochondrial DNA analysis through traditional Sanger sequencing or NGS methodologies.


• Demonstrated record of peer-reviewed publications and professional presentations in the field of forensic biology.


• Experience mentoring students and/or early-career professionals in a research or academic setting.


• Development of independent research projects, including experimental design, data analysis, and effective communication of results through reports and presentations.


• Strong knowledge of current forensic standards, guidelines, and best practices in forensic biology.

Preferred Qualifications

Prior experience working at a human decomposition facility or taphonomic research center, including the handling, processing, or analysis of decomposed human remains

Required License/Registration/Certifications

N/A

Job Duties:

• Design, execute, and manage research projects focused on DNA recovery from compromised human remains.


• Monitor emerging research and technologies relevant to human identification of compromised remains.


• Collaborate with internal and external partners on multidisciplinary projects.


• Present research findings at national and international conferences.


• Contribute to the preparation of grant proposals, technical reports, and peer-reviewed publications.


• Provide knowledge and help with experiments, as requested.


• Support research activities outside the designated ancient DNA lab as needed to advance overall research objectives.

Physical Requirements:

• Communicating with others to exchange information.


• Lifting and Moving objects up to 20 pounds.

Environmental Hazards:

• No adverse environmental conditions expected.

Work Schedule:

Monday - Friday; 8:00am - 5:00pm; with the possibility of a flex-schedule.

Driving University Vehicle:

No

Security Sensitive:

This is a Security Sensitive Position.

Special Instructions:

Applicants must submit a minimum of two professional references as part of their application. If needed, additional references can be added after the application has been submitted.Employment at the Center for Human Identification is contingent upon your agreement to provide a DNA sample for purposes of quality control to detect sample contamination.

Benefits:

For information regarding our Benefits, click here.

EEO Statement:

The University of North Texas System is firmly committed to equal opportunity and does not permit -- and takes actions to prevent -- discrimination, harassment (including sexual violence, domestic violence, dating violence and stalking) and retaliation on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, genetic information, or veteran status in its application, employment practices and facilities; nor permits race, color, national origin, religion, age, disability, veteran status, or sex discrimination and harassment in its admissions processes, and educational programs and activities, facilities and employment practices. The University of North Texas System promptly investigates complaints of discrimination, harassment and related retaliation and takes remedial action when appropriate. The University of North Texas System also takes actions to prevent retaliation against individuals who oppose any form of harassment or discriminatory practice, file a charge or report, or testify, assist or participate in an investigative proceeding or hearing.