Postdoctoral Scholar — Human Biology and Anthropological Genetics

Gohuskies; Seattle (WA); On-site; USD 68,460 - 78,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical benefits

Dental benefits

Retirement benefits

Job summary

Gohuskies seeks a Postdoctoral Scholar in Seattle to collaborate on research in evolutionary biology and aging. Candidates should have a PhD in biological anthropology or a similar field. Responsibilities include managing lab operations and mentoring students. The position offers competitive salary and benefits, with a base range of $68,460 to $78,000 annually. Applications are encouraged from individuals with interests aligning with the research topics. The position is full time for 12 months with potential for renewal.

Qualifications

• All elements of the PhD must be completed and the degree conferred by the start date.
• Experience in developmental and molecular genetics is required.
• Ability to work collaboratively on research projects.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with Professor Eisenberg on research projects related to aging and evolution.
• Manage day-to-day operations of the Anthropological Genetics Lab.
• Mentor graduate and undergraduate research students.

Skills

Molecular genetics/biology laboratory work

Research in evolutionary biology

Mentoring students

Education

PhD or foreign equivalent in biological anthropology or similar field

Job description

University of Washington: Academic Personnel & Faculty: College of Arts and Sciences: SOCIAL SCIENCES DIVISION: Anthropology

Location

Seattle

Open Date

Apr 17, 2026

Description

The University of Washington (Seattle, WA) invites applications for a one-year Postdoctoral Scholar position, with likely possibility of renewal for at least a second year. The successful applicant will work under the supervision of and in collaboration with Dan Eisenberg, Professor of Anthropology. Ideal applicants will have broad interests in the evolutionary biology of living humans and/or non-human primates. Job duties will be adapted based on the complementary interests and career goals of the Postdoctoral Scholar with Dr. Eisenberg and could include the development of new research directions. The fellow is likely to work on projects investigating telomere biology, genomics, and epigenomics, using data and samples from the Cebu Longitudinal Health and Nutrition Survey, chimpanzee samples, and other human and non-human primate cohorts. Other possible projects may relate to studying best practices in biological anthropology and science more broadly. The fellow will be able to gain experience in publishing, laboratory skills, mentoring students, and with grant submissions.

Applicants with appropriate interests who are eligible are strongly encouraged to get in touch with Dr. Eisenberg about also applying for the Biological Mechanisms of Healthy Aging Training Program (https://halo.dlmp.uw.edu/bmha/post-doctoral-openings/).

The position is 100% FTE for 12 months. Benefits such as medical, dental, and retirement are also included (more details at https://hr.uw.edu/benefits/benefits-orientation/post-doctoral-scholars-and-fellows/).

The base salary range for this position (assuming no previous postdoctoral positions) will be a minimum of $5,705 per month ($68,460/year) and a maximum of $6,500 per month ($78,000/year), commensurate with experience and qualifications, or as mandated by a U.S. Department of Labor prevailing wage determination.

Postdoctoral scholars are represented by UAW 4121 and are subject to the collective bargaining agreement, unless agreed exclusion criteria apply. For more information, please visit the University of Washington Labor Relations website. Review of applications will begin immediately, and priority given to those received by July 15, 2026. The anticipated start date is August 1, 2026, but this is negotiable for possible earlier or later start.

Responsibilities:

• The candidate will work in collaboration with Professor Eisenberg on research projects related to the evolutionary biology of aging, life history theory, intergenerational plasticity and/or meta-science.
• The candidate may be expected lead and manage day-to-day operations of the Anthropological Genetics Lab, including mentoring of graduate and undergraduate research students.
• Collaborative research, discussion, and presentation of research results is expected.

Note: The University of Washington restricts Postdoctoral Scholar appointments to a total of five years, including postdoctoral experience(s) at other institutions.

The University of Washington and the International Union, Automobile, Aerospace and Agricultural Implement Workers of America, Local 4121 (UAW 4121) have negotiated a collective bargaining agreement for Postdoctoral Scholars. Employees in this title are represented by UAW 4121 and will be subject to the applicable collective bargaining agreement, unless agreed exclusion criteria apply. For details on the agreement reached, please visit: hr.uw.edu/files/labor/UAW-4121-Postdoc-2021-2023-CBA-TA.pdf

Qualifications

By the start date, all elements of the PhD or foreign equivalent should be completed and the degree conferred in biological anthropology, or similar field.

Application Instructions

Please submit the following documents via Interfolio:

• Cover letter which includes 1-2 pages explaining your research experience and future goals. Please note your experience in molecular genetics/biology laboratory work.
• Contact information for three references
• PDF copies of two publications or research papers in preparation.

Application Process

This institution is using Interfolio's Faculty Search to conduct this search. Applicants to this position receive a free Dossier account and can send all application materials, including confidential letters of recommendation, free of charge.

The University of Washington is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful and welcoming community for all. As an equal opportunity employer, the University considers applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, citizenship, sex, pregnancy, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, disability, or veteran status consistent with UW Executive Order No. 81 .

Benefits Information

The University is committed to providing excellent benefits to our faculty. For a summary of available benefits, please see UWHR benefits information .

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Disability Services

The University of Washington is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodation in its services, programs, activities, education, and employment for individuals with disabilities. To request disability accommodation in the application process, contact the Disability Services Office at 206-543-6450 or [e-mail].