Postdoctoral Research Position in Phylogenomics and Comparative Genomics
Wickett Lab, Chicago Botanic Garden
We are hiring a postdoctoral researcher for up to three years to lead
the bioinformatics and genome sequencing efforts of an NSF-funded,
Phylogenetic Systematics grant titled “Unlocking the evolutionary
history of Schiedea (carnation family, Caryophyllaceae): rapid radiation
of an endemic plant genus in the Hawaiian Islands”. This project
integrates field work, genome sequencing, phylogenomics, and population
genetics to reconstruct the evolution of breeding system diversity in
the Hawaiian Islands endemic genus Schiedea. This project is a
collaboration between Norman Wickett (Chicago Botanic Garden), Ann Sakai
and Steve Weller (UC Irvine), Michael Moore (Oberlin), and Warren Wagner
(National Tropical Botanical Garden and Smithsonian National Museum of
Natural History). The postdoc will be based at the Chicago Botanic
Garden, where the genome sequencing efforts and, along with Oberlin, the
phylogenomic analyses will be based.
The postdoc will be responsible for coordinating and conducting the
sequencing, assembly, and annotation of three Schiedea genomes. The
position includes the analysis of genome content and structure
association with the diversification of the genus, with an emphasis on
the phylogenetic reconstruction of species and breeding system diversity
and the history of hybridization. We expect that the postdoc will
contribute to the preparation of numerous publications, many of which
will be first-authored. Field work in the Hawaiian Islands will occur in
each year, and we will encourage the postdoc to participate for several
weeks per year. This field work may involve hiking in steep mountains in
difficult conditions. Teaching and curriculum development opportunities
will be offered through the Graduate Program in Plant Biology and
Conservation, a joint program between the Chicago Botanic Garden and
Northwestern University. We anticipate that the postdoc will participate
in mentoring undergraduate students, possibly as part of an REU site
grant to CBG. Because this project is a collaboration between different
types of institutions (Museum, Botanic Garden, Small Liberal Arts
College, Research University/R1) there are unique opportunities for the
postdoc to experience research, mentoring, and teaching in different
environments.
Applicants must have (or will soon have) a Ph.D. in ecology and
evolutionary biology, biology, botany, or a related field. Experience in
bioinformatics is required, preferably in the area of genome assembly
and annotation. Ideal candidates will also have a strong background in
phylogenetics and phylogenetic comparative methods, preferably using
phylogenomics-style datasets (hundreds to thousands of nuclear loci).
To apply, please email a single PDF to nwick...@chicagobotanic.org that
includes:
- a cover letter describing your interest and fit for the position
- CV
- contact information for three references
Review of applications will begin on December 10, 2018, but applications
after this date will be considered and will continue to be accepted
until the position is filled. The expected start date is ideally in
early 2019, as the first field work will begin in mid-March, 2019.
However, the start date is negotiable. If you have any questions about
the position or would like to learn more about the project, please email
Norm Wickett at nwick...@chicagobotanic.org.
At the Chicago Botanic Garden Plant Science Research Center, we advocate
diversity in the sciences by promoting access and success of
historically marginalized communities through the fostering of an
equitable and inclusive community climate. We are committed to ensuring
a sense of belonging for every individual we encounter, regardless of
age, race, gender, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, physical
ability, intellectual ability, or economic status. We are committed to
equal opportunity in all of our programs and encourage applicants from
groups traditionally underrepresented in the biological sciences.
