New

Postdoctoral Fellow II

Utah State University
Commensurate with experience, plus excellent benefits
United States, Utah, Logan
Jun 26, 2025
Postdoctoral Fellow II Requisition ID: 2025-9276 # of Openings: 1 Location: US-UT-Logan Category: Other Position Type: Benefited Full-Time Job Classification: Exempt College: College of Science Department: Biology Advertised Salary: Commensurate with experience, plus excellent benefits Overview The Gompert Lab at Utah State University (Department of Biology) is recruiting a postdoctoral research scientist in evolutionary genomics to start in fall 2025. The postdoc will work on a NIH-funded project exploring the contribution of structural genetic variation (chromosomal rearrangements) to trait variation and adaptation in three insect systems: Lycaeides butterflies, Timema stick insects and Callosobruchus seed beetles. Responsibilities The postdoctoral researcher will collaborate with Dr. Gompert on evolutionary genomic data analyses, including comparative genome alignments and pangenome graph construction. The goal is to identify structural variants from genome assemblies and conduct downstream analyses that integrate structural variant discovery with population and quantitative genomic data. This research will focus on studying trait variation, adaptation, and hybridization. Depending on the postdoc's skills, interests, and expertise, they may focus exclusively on data analysis or also take on a central role in lab or fieldwork. Applicants interested in working remotely are eligible to apply. Key responsibilities include: (i) leading data analysis and interpretation, (ii) managing and contributing to individual research projects within the scope of the Gompert lab's program, (iii) collaborating with other research team members, (iv) mentoring undergraduate and graduate students in the lab, (v) writing scientific papers, and (vi) presenting research findings at conferences and participating in regular lab meetings. Qualifications Minimum Qualifications: Ph.D. in biology, computational biology, data science, or a related discipline Demonstrated experience working with genomic or population genomic data Strong understanding of the scientific process, including experimental design and research integrity Excellent written and verbal communication skills A record of peer-reviewed publications Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a research environment Genuine enthusiasm for scientific discovery and contributing to the advancement of knowledge Preferred Qualifications:A subset of the following skills and experiences is desirable, but not required: Strong background in evolutionary biology or computational biology Proficiency or familiarity with programming or scripting in languages such as R, Python, Perl, C, or similar Experience analyzing and managing data on a high-performance computing cluster, including use of a Unix command-line environment Experience working with structural genetic variant data or pangenomes Laboratory skills in molecular biology, particularly techniques relevant to modern genome sequencing Experience or interest in working with insects in either laboratory or field settings Required Documents Along with the online application, please attach: Resume/CV to be uploaded at the beginning of your application in the Candidate Profile under "Resume/CV" 1-2 page cover letter summarizing your training, research interests, relevant skills/knowledge/experiences, career goals, and reasons for interest in the position, to be uploaded at the beginning of your application in the Candidate Profile under "Documents 1-10" Two representative publications to be uploaded at the beginning of your application in the Candidate Profile under "Documents 1-10" Contact information for 2 references/letter writers to be entered into Candidate Profile Document size may not exceed 10 MB. Advertised Salary Commensurate with experience, plus excellent benefits ADA This position involves working in a genomics research lab within an academic setting. Physical demands include: High manual dexterity and good hand-eye coordination Ability to work with and manipulate small objects Transporting light objects (<10 lbs) Standing at a lab bench for up to several hours at a time Mental demands include: Handling and working with insects, particularly seed beetle colonies Critical thinking and attention to detail Strong understanding of science, experimental design, and basic arithmetic Ability to maintain focus and stay engaged in tasks for extended periods University Highlights The USU Department of Biology is a friendly and positive atmosphere to work in. The faculty, staff and students are very supportive and respectful. Strongly consider joining this team to continue to support the wide expanse of students that undertake biology as part of their educational journey. Founded in 1888, Utah State University is Utah's premier land-grant, public service university. As an R1 research institution, Utah State is dedicated to advancing knowledge and serving the public good through innovative research and scholarly activities that are grounded in reciprocal engagement with local, regional, and global communities. USU prepares students to be active, civically engaged leaders who are prepared to address critical societal challenges. Dedicated to providing a high-quality and affordable education, USU remains a leader in research, discovery, and public impact. USU enrolls 28,900 students, both online and in person at locations throughout the state. Utah State's 30 locations include a main campus in Logan, Utah, residential campuses in Price and Blanding, and six additional statewide campuses, along with education centers serving every county. USU Online educates students from all 50 states and 55 countries. For over 25 years, USU Extension has served and engaged Utahns in all of Utah's counties. Competing at the NCAA Division I level, USU is a proud member of the Mountain West Conference and will join the Pac-12 Conference beginning in the 2026-2027 season. The Aggies' long-standing tradition of athletic and academic excellence is exemplified by conference championships in multiple sports, reflecting USU's commitment to perseverance and achievement. Utah State is dedicated to fostering a community where all individuals feel respected, valued, and supported. We seek to recruit, hire, and retain people from all walks of life who will champion excellence in education, research, discovery, outreach, and service. We believe that promoting a strong sense of community and belonging empowers and engages all members of USU to thrive and be successful. Forbes recognized our commitment to employees when they named Utah State the best employer in Utah in 2023. Learn more about USU. The university provides a Dual Career Assistance Program to support careers for partners who are also seeking employment. Additionally, USU is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities. To request a reasonable accommodation for a disability, contact the university's ADA Coordinator in the Office of Human Resources at (435) 797-0122 or hr@usu.edu . updated 02/2025 https://careers-usu.icims.com/jobs/9276/postdoctoral-fellow-ii/job?in_iframe=1* Notice of Non-discrimination In its programs and activities, including in admissions and employment, Utah State University does not discriminate or tolerate discrimination, including harassment, based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other status protected by University policy, Title IX, or any other federal, state, or local law. The following individuals have been designated to handle inquiries regarding the application of Title IX and its implementing regulations and/or USUs non-discrimination policies: Executive Director of the Office of Equity Matthew Pinner, discrimination@usu.edu, Distance Education Rm. 401, 435-797-1266 Title IX Coordinator Matthew Pinner, titleix@usu.edu, Distance Education Rm. 404, 435-797-1266 Mailing address: 5100 Old Main Hill, Logan, Ut 84322 For further information regarding non-discrimination, please visit https://equity.usu.edu/, or contact: U.S. Department of Education, Office of Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights, 800-421-3481, OCR@ed.gov U.S. Department of Education, Denver Regional Office, 303-844-5695, OCR.Denver@ed.gov Copyright 2025 Jobelephant.com Inc. All rights reserved. Posted by the FREE value-added recruitment advertising agency jeid-e0f288a335e6bc499b99b68bea27528f