Postdoctoral Researcher
Position Overview
The Kelly, Macdonald and Unckless research groups use a range of genetic, genomic, and statistical techniques to address basic questions in evolutionary genetics. The postdoctoral researcher will help to lead a collaborative project exploring the genomic basis of fitness variation in the model species Drosophila melanogaster. We will use a combination of field and laboratory experiments to identify the processes generating fitness variation among individuals and quantitatively estimate how that variation results in allele frequency change. This project employs massive-scale genome sequencing, data that will enable a wide range of novel, independent projects. The project also involves a substantial theoretical component including algorithm development. The breadth of the project and the depth of the data we are collecting allow for a range of questions to be addressed, providing the opportunity for the successful candidate to position themselves as an independent investigator. The position is funded through a multi-year NSF grant and has an anticipated start date of 1 August 2025 (although this is very flexible and can be moved earlier/later).
Job Description
50% - Carry out primary research to understand the genetic basis of male fitness variation in Drosophila melanogaster.
20% - Present research results in scientific journals and at conferences/symposia.
15% - Work with other members of the research group to develop and execute collaborative projects.
10% - Help mentor and train junior researchers (graduate students, undergraduates).
5% - Pursue non-research professional development activities to advance your career goals.
20% - Present research results in scientific journals and at conferences/symposia.
15% - Work with other members of the research group to develop and execute collaborative projects.
10% - Help mentor and train junior researchers (graduate students, undergraduates).
5% - Pursue non-research professional development activities to advance your career goals.
Position Requirements
Work location: Fully on-site; Haworth Hall, Room 5005, 785-864-3706
Required Qualifications
- A PhD in evolution, genetics, genomics, or a related field.
- A first-author publication or preprint based on your doctoral work that shows your ability to initiate and execute a research project.
- Experience with molecular/population/quantitative genetics, as evidenced by application materials and/or publications.
- Experience with bioinformatics (such as coding or scripting in R or Python) as evidenced by application materials.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience working with genomic datasets resulting from next-generation sequencing applications (e.g., whole genome sequencing, RNAseq).
- Experience working with undergraduates or other researchers in a team setting.
Additional Candidate Instructions
A complete electronic application includes the following materials:
Review of applications begins on March 01, 2025, and continues until a qualified pool of applicants is received. To ensure consideration, apply before the application review date.
- CV/Resume
- A cover letter outlining relevant experience and interest in the position.
- Contact information for three referees (phone/email).
Review of applications begins on March 01, 2025, and continues until a qualified pool of applicants is received. To ensure consideration, apply before the application review date.
Contact Information to Applicants
John Kelly
jkk@ku.edu
(785) 864-3706
jkk@ku.edu
(785) 864-3706
Advertised Salary Range
$60,000; Salary commensurate with qualifications and experience.
Work Schedule
M-F; 8-5
Application Review Begins
Saturday March 1, 2025
Anticipated Start Date
Friday August 1, 2025