Postdoctoral Scholar – Statistical Diversity Lab

Go Huskies; Seattle (WA); On-site; USD 68,000 - 84,000; Full time

Job summary

University of Washington in Seattle seeks a Postdoctoral Scholar in Biostatistics within the Statistical Diversity Lab led by Dr. Amy Willis, focusing on methodological or microbial bioinformatics research on microbiome data and related software, outreach and training.

This in‑person, 12‑month full‑time appointment starts around September 1, 2026, with the possibility of renewal. Applicants should have a PhD in Statistics/Biostatistics or Computational Biology/Microbial Bioinformatics, a

Qualifications

• PhD or equivalent in Statistics/Biostatistics or Computational Biology/Microbial Bioinformatics.
• A publication record in the respective field is expected.
• Strong coding skills in R, Python, C++, Java or Bash.

Responsibilities

• Research in methodological or microbial bioinformatics areas related to microbiome data.
• Contribute to software development, outreach and training within the lab.
• Collaborate on projects and publish findings.

Skills

R, Python, C++, Java, Bash

Communication skills

Project management

Education

PhD in Statistics/Biostatistics

PhD in Computational Biology/Microbial Bioinformatics

Tools

anvi'o

Job description

University of Washington: Academic Personnel & Faculty: School of Public Health: Biostatistics

Location

Seattle, WA

Description

The Department of Biostatistics at the University of Washington has an outstanding opportunity for a Postdoctoral Scholar.

The Statistical Diversity Lab, led by Dr. Amy Willis, is one of the most respected international groups developing methods for the analysis of microbiome data (https://statdivlab.github.io/ ). The StatDivLab develops cutting‑edge statistical methodology to address the most important methodological needs of microbiome scientists. Software, outreach and training complement their research mission.

The StatDivLab is seeking a Postdoctoral Scholar with PhD‑level training and research experience in either Statistical Methodology or Microbial Bioinformatics. Please see below for expected qualifications.

The research project undertaken by the Postdoctoral Scholar will be tailored to the background and interests of the candidate, with possible projects in methods for emerging experimental designs (e.g. absolute quantification through spike‑ins; multi‑omic datasets), microbial phylogenetics, variable importance, model selection, trait prediction, and uncertainty quantification.

Substantial professional development opportunities are available, including travel and speaking opportunities at international conferences and workshops and engaged mentoring towards long‑term professional goals.

This is an in‑person position based in Seattle, WA. It is a full‑time (100% FTE), 12‑month/year position, with an initial appointment length of one year and the possibility of renewal. The preferred start date is September 1, 2026, but the date is negotiable. Salary for this position ranges from $68,460/year ($5,705/month) to $84,240/year ($7,020/month) with benefits, and is commensurate with experience and qualifications, or as mandated by a U.S. Department of Labor prevailing wage determination.

• For applicants to the Statistical Methodology track:
  • PhD or equivalent in Statistics, Biostatistics, or a related field.
  • At least one published contribution in statistical methodology. This could include nonparametric, semiparametric, or resampling‑based methods, with applications in any applied field.
  • A genuine interest in applying methods to contemporary datasets.
• For applicants to the Microbial Bioinformatics track:
  • PhD or equivalent in Computational Biology, Microbiology, or a related field.
  • At least one published contribution in computational biology, microbiology, or a related field.
  • Research experience with shotgun sequencing data, including most of the following: working with public databases, assembly, annotation, binning, SNV profiling, and distributed computing infrastructure (cluster and/or cloud).
  • An interest in learning contemporary statistical methods.
• For all applicants:
  • Strong written and oral communication skills.
  • Strong skills in project management and time management.
  • Proficiency in R, python, C++, Java or bash as demonstrated through a record of open‑source software distribution.

Desired qualifications:

• For applicants to the Statistical Methodology track:
  • Experience with microbiome, genomics or tree‑valued data.
• For applicants to the Microbial Bioinformatics track:
  • Familiarity with machine learning methods.
  • Experience with anvi'o databases.
• For all applicants:
  • Multiple publications in the field of the candidate’s expertise.

Application Process

This institution is using Interfolio's Faculty Search to conductthis search. Applicants to this position receive a free Dossieraccount and can send all application materials, includingconfidential 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].