POSTDOCTORAL FELLOW POSITIONS: EVOLUTIONARY GENETICS AT THE UNIVERSITY OF UTAH
A postdoctoral position is available in the laboratory of Dr. Mike Shapiro in the Department of Biology, University of Utah. We seek a highly motivated and creative colleague to study evolutionary genomics of rapid adaptation in a classic host-parasite system.
Adaptive radiations of parasites occur as they switch to new host species, yet the genetic mechanisms mediating these events remain poorly understood. Parasites represent a massive component of the earth’s biodiversity, so understanding how they adapt to new hosts represents a major problem in evolutionary biology. This project focuses on rapid adaptation of lice to changes in host (pigeon) conditions in an experimental system and is funded by an NSF Dimensions of Biodiversity grant in collaboration with the labs of Dale Clayton and Sarah Bush (Utah) and Kevin Johnson (Illinois).
Please visit our home page for more information about our lab and recent publications.
Requirements
1. Ph.D. in genetics, genomics, developmental biology, evolutionary biology, or a closely related field. Applicants with fewer than 2 years of postdoc experience are strongly preferred.
2. Track record of productivity
3. Demonstrated ability and willingness to work both independently and collaboratively
4. Excellent written and oral English communication skills
5. A strong background in analysis of high-throughput sequencing data
To apply
Please submit the following materials:
1. CV, including a list of publications
2. Statement that includes your research experience and interests, as well as your preferred approximate start date
3. Names of three referees who will be willing to submit letters of reference upon request
Please email application materials in PDF format to Dr. Mike Shapiro.
Informal inquiries are welcome prior to formal application.
Scientific and cultural environment
The Department of Biology comprises a diverse and vibrant group of laboratories, with research interests ranging from environmental biology to biochemistry. The genetics and developmental biology communities are strong on the University of Utah main and medical school campuses and offer numerous opportunities for collaboration. The growing interdepartmental evolutionary genetics and genomics community is especially interactive.
The University of Utah is located in beautiful (and affordable) Salt Lake City, with easy access to world-class entertainment and recreation. Salt Lake City and nearby Park City are home to the annual Sundance Film Festival and a year-round cinema and arts scene, as well as outstanding restaurants, coffee houses, and brewpubs. Several national parks are located within a just few hours’ drive, and the university is within a 40-minute drive of at least six major alpine skiing and snowboarding resorts, including venues of the 2002 Olympics. Hiking and mountain biking trails begin essentially on campus. Outside Magazine recently called Salt Lake City “one of the nation's most underrated outdoor meccas.” The city is also a major airline hub, with non-stop flights throughout North America and Europe (Paris, London).
Nondiscrimination & accessibility statement
The University of Utah does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, status as a disabled individual, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, genetic information or protected veteran’s status, in employment, treatment, admission, access to educational programs and activities, or other University benefits or services.
