Postdoctoral Researcher: Kleptocnidy in Nudibranchs

University of California-Berkeley; Berkeley (CA); On-site; USD 71,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of California, Berkeley invites applications for a postdoctoral position in the Tarvin Lab of the Department of Integrative Biology and the Museum of Vertebrate Zoology to study kleptocnidy in nudibranch mollusks.

Researchers will identify molecular processes via RNA sequencing and pharmacological assays, publish in peer‑reviewed journals, and contribute to an NSF‑funded project. The appointment is two years with potential extension, starting Fall 2026, at 100% time in Berkeley.

Qualifications

• PhD (or equivalent international degree) required at time of application.
• PhD by start date; no more than three years of post-degree research experience.
• Track record of first-author publications.
• Ability to work collaboratively and independently under supervision.
• Experience in experimental design, physiology, and/or genomics.
• Willingness to work with live animals in the lab and field.
• Familiarity with nudibranch mollusks or other marine invertebrates.

Responsibilities

• Carry out original scientific research related to dietary theft in nudibranchs, including animal husbandry, genomics, molecular biology, physiology and field work within the U.S.
• Write and publish peer-reviewed papers and other scholarly material on the results of the research.
• Present scientific results at professional meetings, scientific institutions, and, when appropriate, to the media and popular audiences.
• Develop new projects in the context of the research program.

Skills

Research productivity

Collaborative work

Independent work

Experimental design

Physiology/genomics

Live animals handling

Marine invertebrates familiarity

Education

PhD or equivalent degree

PhD by start date

Job description

The University of California, Berkeley invites applications for a postdoctoral position in the Tarvin Lab of the Department of Integrative Biology and the Museum of Vertebrate Zoology to study kleptocnidy in nudibranch mollusks.

Researchers will identify molecular processes via RNA sequencing and pharmacological assays, publish in peer‑reviewed journals, and contribute to an NSF‑funded project. The appointment is two years with potential extension, starting Fall 2026, at 100% time in Berkeley.