Postdoctoral Researcher - 24637BR

Postdoctoral Researcher

Department: 
Higuchi Biosciences Center
Location/Division: 
University of Kansas Lawrence Campus
Work Location Assignment: 
On-Site
Reg/Temp: 
Regular
Employee Class: 
U-Unclassified Professional Staff

Position Overview

The Macdonald group uses a range of genetic, genomic and molecular technologies to dissect the genetic basis of complex phenotypic variation using Drosophila as a model system. We are also leading the development of the Drosophila Synthetic Population Resource (DSPR) in collaboration with Tony Long's group at UC Irvine. As part of the ongoing DSPR project we aim to expand the utility of the resource for the fly community, explore novel powerful methods for QTL mapping, and examine the genetic basis of regulatory variation over time, focusing on the response to infection. The breadth of the project, and depth of the data we are collecting, allows 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 NIH grant and has an anticipated start date of 5 June 2023 (although this is flexible).

Job Description

50%
  • Carry out primary research to understand the genetic basis of complex trait variation in Drosophila. A range of projects are possible using an array of approaches, from those that are heavily focused on the quantitative genetics of trait variation (e.g., identifying QTL for traits of interest), to those that focus on genomics approaches and are more computational in scope (e.g., RNAseq-based eQTL mapping).
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

Physical Requirements (with or without accommodation):
  • Standing or walking for more than a combined total of four hours/day in order to do bench work in various labs.
  • Use of both hands to perform experiments in lab.

Required Qualifications

  1. A PhD in evolution, genetics, genomics, or a related field.
  2. A first-author publication/preprint that demonstrates experience initiating and executing a research project.
  3. Experience with molecular/population/quantitative genetics, as evidenced by application materials and/or publications.
  4. Previous experience with coding/scripting (e.g., R, Python) as evidenced by application materials.
NOTE: To be appointed at the Postdoctoral Researcher title, it is necessary to have the PhD in hand. Appointments made without a diploma or certified transcript indicating an earned doctorate are conditional hires and are appointed on an acting basis not to exceed six months. Upon verification of degree the appointment will be extended to its full duration.

    Preferred Qualifications

    1. Prior experience with Drosophila as an experimental system.
    2. Experience working with genomic datasets resulting from next-generation sequencing applications (e.g., whole genome sequencing, RNAseq).
    3. Experience working with undergraduates or other researchers in a team setting.

    Additional Candidate Instructions

    A complete online application includes:
    • Cover letter outlining relevant experience and interest in the position
    • CV/resume highlighting pertinent experience relative to the required and preferred qualifications
    • Contact information for three professional references.
    Only complete applications will be considered. Informal queries about the position are welcome, and can be directed to Dr. Stuart Macdonald (sjmac@ku.edu).

    Review of applications will begin on April 10, 2023 and will continue until the position is filled. To ensure first consideration, please apply by April 9, 2023.

    Contact Information to Applicants

    Dr. Stuart Macdonald
    sjmac@ku.edu
    785-864-5362

    Advertised Salary Range

    Minimum 54,840.00. Salary commensurate with qualifications and experience

    Work Schedule

    Standard hours

    Application Review Begins

    10-Apr-2023

    Anticipated Start Date

    05-Jun-2023

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    Posting Information
    Posting ID:
    24637BR
    Department:
    Higuchi Biosciences Center
    Primary Campus:
    University of Kansas Lawrence Campus
    Work Location Assignment:
    On-Site
    Reg/Temp:
    Regular
    Employee Class:
    U-Unclassified Professional Staff
    Application Review Begins:
    10-Apr-2023