Postdoctoral Scholar Research Associate

A postdoctoral research fellow position is available in the lab of Dr. Charleston Chiang at USC. The Chiang lab utilizes cutting-edge analytic tools to address questions at the intersection of human medical and population genetics. In particular, we have a strong interest in developing methods that uses genomic data to understand the evolution and architecture of complex traits and the history of diverse human populations. These insights will be critical for future population and statistical genetics studies and in practicing personalized medicine. The successful candidate will have substantial input in the nature and the direction of the ongoing research projects within the lab and will be encouraged to explore projects that broadly fit within the lab's research interests and funded research grants. These goals include learning about demographic history or natural selection from genetic variation data, or understanding genetic architecture and evolutionary history of complex traits in diverse populations. The candidate will be funded primarily by an R01 on method development for statistical and population genetic applications based on the ancestral recombination graph (see recent publications from the lab for the types of research we do in this area: Tang and Chiang, AJHG 2025 or Fan et al. Nat Genet 2025).

Postdoc position is for 1-3 yrs depending on the career goals of the candidate. Position is extendable at the end of the initial appointment. Salary will start at the senior NIH postdoc scale (> $72,000 per year), increasing with prior experience and relevant expertise. While postdocs are considered a transient phase of one's career, we also value stability. There will be opportunities to transition to staff scientist position.

Candidates should have a Ph.D. in genetics, computer science, bioinformatics, computational biology, or a related field. Proficiency in one or more programming languages (e.g. python, C++, etc.) and in Unix-based computing environment is required. Prior experience in statistical or population genetic method development is desirable, but not necessary. Passion to learn about human population genetic research and to perform rigorous research is a must.

Start date is flexible throughout 2026. The successful candidate is expected to be based in Southern California, but some level of working from home is possible. We are actively establishing a vibrant and respectful culture in the research group. See brief notes on how we are working towards this goal here: http://chianglab.usc.edu/resources.html

Interested candidates should submit a CV, a short (1 page) cover letter describing your research interests and fit within the lab, and contact information for 2-3 references. Potential applicants are encouraged to submit informal inquiries to Charleston Chiang at charleston.chiang@med.usc.edu.

The annual base salary range for this position is $72,000 - $76,000. When extending an offer of employment, the University of Southern California considers factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate's work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, federal, state, and local laws, contractual stipulations, grant funding, as well as external market and organizational considerations

USC will consider for employment all qualified applicants with criminal records in a manner consistent with applicable laws and regulations, including the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for employers and the Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, and with due consideration for patient and student safety.