Postdoctoral Research Associate in Invertebrate Symbiosis & Evolution

Georgia 4-H; Athens (GA); On-site; USD 52,000 - 78,000; Full time

Job summary

University of Georgia seeks a Postdoctoral Research Associate to study the ecology and evolution of animal-microbe symbioses, focusing on nematodes and microscopic marine invertebrates. The role integrates evolutionary biology, genomics, microbiology, and bioinformatics to explore host-associated microbial diversity and function.

The successful candidate will contribute to an interdisciplinary program, with emphasis on data analysis, lab work, and dissemination of results through high-quality

Qualifications

• Microbial symbioses or host-microbe interactions
• Phylogenetics and phylogenomics
• Comparative genomics or pangenome analysis
• Metagenomics or microbiome analysis
• Geobiology or microbial biogeochemistry
• Evolution of marine invertebrates
• Microscopy and FISH approaches
• High-performance computing
• Fieldwork and oceanographic cruise experience

Responsibilities

• Conduct bioinformatics data analysis – analyze genomic, metagenomic, and phylogenomic datasets
• Executing molecular wet lab protocols – generating DNA extractions, library preparation, sequencing prep
• Writing up research results and preparing manuscripts for submission to peer-reviewed journals
• Other duties as assigned

Skills

Genomics analyses

Phylogenomics

Linux scripting

Scientific writing

Education

Ph.D. in evolutionary biology or related field

Tools

Linux

Python

R

Bash

High-performance computing

Job description

Posting Number:

G/R34844P

Working Title:

Postdoctoral Research Associate in Invertebrate Symbiosis & Evolution

Department:

Franklin-School of Marine Prog

About the University of Georgia:

Chartered by the state of Georgia in 1785, the University of Georgia is the birthplace of public higher education in America and is the state’s flagship university (https://www.uga.edu/). The proof is in our more than 240 years of academic and professional achievements and our continual commitment to higher education. UGA is currently ranked among the top 20 public universities in U.S. News & World Report. The University’s main campus is located in Athens, approximately 65 miles northeast of Atlanta, with extended campuses in Atlanta, Griffin, Gwinnett, and Tifton. UGA employs approximately 3,100 faculty and more than 7,700 full-time staff. The University’s enrollment exceeds 41,000 students including over 31,000 undergraduates and over 10,000 graduate and professional students. Academic programs reside in 19 schools and colleges, including our newly established School of Medicine.

Employment Type:

Employee

Advertised Salary:

Commensurate with Experience

Anticipated Start Date:

10/01/2026

Posting Date:

09/25/2026

Open Until Filled:

Yes

Location of Vacancy:

Athens Area

EOO Statement:

The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or veteran status or other protected status. Persons needing accommodations or assistance with the accessibility of materials related to this search are encouraged to contact Central HR ([e-mail]).

USG Core Values Statement:

The University System of Georgia is comprised of our 25 institutions of higher education and learning, as well the System Office. Our USG Statement of Core Values are Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Respect. These values serve as the foundation for all that we do as an organization, and each USG community member is responsible for demonstrating and upholding these standards. More details on the USG Statement of Core Values and Code of Conduct are available in USG Board Policy 08.02.18.01.02. Additionally, USG supports Freedom of Expression as stated in Board Policy 06.05 Freedom of Expression and Academic Freedom.

Duties/Responsibilities:

Conducting bioinformatics data analysis – analyze genomic, metagenomic, and phylogenomic datasets

Percentage of time:

40

Duties/Responsibilities:

Executing molecular wet lab protocols – generating DNA extractions, library preparation, and submitting material for sequencing

Percentage of time:

40

Duties/Responsibilities:

• Writing up research results and preparing manuscripts for submission to peer-reviewed journals
• Other duties as assigned

Percentage of time:

20

Classification Title:

Post-Doctoral Associate AD

FLSA:

Exempt

FTE:

1.00

Position Summary:

The Postdoctoral Research Associate interested in the ecology and evolution of animal-microbe symbioses, with an emphasis on nematodes and other microscopic marine invertebrates. The successful candidate will contribute to an interdisciplinary research program integrating evolutionary biology, genomics, microbiology, and bioinformatics to investigate the diversity, evolution, and functional significance of host-associated microbial lineages.

Relevant/Preferred Education, Experience, Licensure, Certification in Position:

• Microbial symbioses or host-microbe interactions
• Phylogenetics and phylogenomics
• Comparative genomics or pangenome analysis
• Metagenomics or microbiome analysis
• Geobiology or microbial biogeochemistry
• Evolution of marine invertebrates
• Microscopy and FISH approaches
• High-performance computing
• Fieldwork and oceanographic cruise experience

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and/or Competencies :

• Ph.D. in evolutionary biology, microbiology, genomics, bioinformatics, symbiosis, or a closely related field (completed before the start date)
• Demonstrated publication record in peer-reviewed journals
• Experience with microbial genomics and/or phylogenomic analyses
• Strong computational skills, including proficiency in Linux and at least one scripting language (e.g., Python, R, or Bash)
• Excellent written and oral communication skills

Physical Demands:

• Standing up for extended periods of time carrying out labwork
• Lifting boxes and large lab items weighing up to 20lbs,
• Using high-power light microscopes for extended periods of time

Is this a Position of Trust?:

No

Does this position have operation, access, or control of financial resources?:

No

Does this position require a P-Card?:

No

Is having a P-Card an essential function of this position?:

No

Is driving a requirement of this position?:

No

Does this position have direct interaction or care of children under the age of 18 or direct patient care?:

No

Does this position have Security Access (e.g., public safety, IT security, personnel records, patient records, or access to chemicals and medications):

No

Background Investigation Policy:

Offers of employment are contingent upon completion of a background investigation including, a criminal background check demonstrating your eligibility for employment with the University of Georgia; confirmation of the credentials and employment history reflected in your application materials (including reference checks) as they relate to the job-based requirements of the position applied for; and, if applicable, a satisfactory credit check. You may also be subject to a pre-employment drug test for positions with high-risk responsibilities, if applicable. Please visit the UGA Background Check website.

Contact Details:

For questions concerning this position or recruitment progression, please refer to the Recruitment Contact listed below.

Recruitment Contact Name:

Michelle Watts

Recruitment Contact Email:

[e-mail]

Recruitment Contact Phone:

n/a