Research Associate-Fixed Term

Michigan State University; Hickory Corners (MI); Remote; USD 48,000 - 72,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a forward-thinking research team at a leading university, focusing on conservation genomics of threatened species. This role offers the chance to work on exciting projects involving data collection and analysis, contributing to the understanding of ecological and evolutionary processes. With a commitment to career development, you'll have opportunities to mentor and teach, enhancing your professional skills in a collaborative environment. If you're passionate about making a difference in conservation and have a strong background in genomics, this position is perfect for you. Embrace the chance to advance your career while contributing to vital research efforts.

Benefits

Flexible work environment

Opportunities for mentoring

Professional development

Collaboration with faculty

Qualifications

• PhD in ecology, evolution, genetics, or related field required.
• Expertise in population and landscape genomics and statistical modeling is essential.

Responsibilities

• Assist with and lead data collection and analysis for genomic projects.
• Write manuscripts and develop experimental or theoretical projects.

Skills

Statistical modeling

Population genomics

Landscape genomics

Excellent writing ability

Coding skills

Database management

Demographic modeling

Pedigree reconstruction

Education

PhD in Ecology

PhD in Evolution

PhD in Genetics

PhD in Conservation Biology

PhD in Organismal Biology

Tools

Next-gen sequencing data analysis

RADseq

Exome capture

Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS)

Job description

Position Summary

The Fitzpatrick Lab (www.swfitz.com) at the W.K. Kellogg Biological Station, Michigan State University is searching for an enthusiastic and motivated postdoctoral researcher to work on projects focusing on landscape/conservation genomics of threatened species and genomic architecture of genetic rescue. The Fitzpatrick Lab is interested in the evolutionary and ecological processes that determine adaptation, fitness, and ultimately persistence in small populations. We primarily work on freshwater fish, including the Eastern mosquitofish as a model system, as well as with a diverse set of non-model organisms, including amphibians, butterflies, reptiles, and birds.

The primary responsibility of this position will be to assist with and lead data collection, analysis, and write manuscripts associated with our project testing 'adapt or die' responses in experimental populations of Eastern mosquitofish. In addition to the funded work (NSF Bridging Ecology & Evolution Program), there will be opportunities to develop related experimental or theoretical projects related to genetic rescue, including the potential to take advantage of previously collected samples and/or datasets.

The position is based at MSU’s Kellogg Biological Station, located in Hickory Corners, MI ~65 miles from the main campus. KBS is home to 14 resident faculty and their graduate students and post-doctoral researchers, with interests focusing on ecology, evolution, and conservation, as well as full-time research staff, visiting research scientists, and many summer undergraduates. KBS is home to the KBS Long Term Ecological Research (LTER) program (www.lter.kbs.msu.edu), the Great Lakes Bioenergy Research Center (GLBRC), and a Molecular Ecology and Genomics Laboratory. The successful candidate will have opportunities to interact with faculty on main campus in the Departments of Integrative Biology; Fisheries & Wildlife; and members of the Ecology, Evolutionary Biology, & Behavior (EEBB) program. KBS and the Fitzpatrick Lab are committed to postdoctoral research career development, providing postdocs with opportunities to gain experience in mentoring, teaching, and other professional skills.

Start date and duration: The position start date is somewhat flexible, but we hope to employ someone by January 6, 2025. Funding is for one year with the potential for extension pending satisfactory performance.

Minimum Requirements: We seek an individual with a PhD in a related field (ecology, evolution, genetics, conservation biology, organismal biology), demonstrated expertise in population and/or landscape genomics, statistical modeling, and excellent writing ability.

Desired Qualifications: The ideal candidate will have some experience in the collection and analysis of next-gen sequencing data (e.g., RADseq, exome capture, WGS). Additional valuable qualifications include: coding skills, database management, demographic modeling, pedigree reconstruction, experience working with live vertebrates in lab or field settings, and experience mentoring undergraduate students.

Required Application Materials: (1) cover letter describing research interests and motivation, including a discussion of how your skills are aligned with the needs of projects described above, (2) CV, (3) names and emails of 3 references, and (4) 2-3 published papers or manuscripts in preparation.

Review of Applications Begins On: 09/15/2024

Remote Work Statement: MSU strives to provide a flexible work environment and this position has been designated as remote-friendly. Remote-friendly means some or all of the duties can be performed remotely as mutually agreed upon.

Website: kbs.msu.edu

MSU Statement: Michigan State University has been advancing the common good with uncommon will for more than 160 years. One of the top research universities in the world, MSU pushes the boundaries of discovery and forges enduring partnerships to solve the most pressing global challenges while providing life-changing opportunities to a diverse and inclusive academic community through more than 200 programs of study in 17 degree-granting colleges.