We are soliciting for the first of two postdoctoral research associates who will drive the research for a new NSF Dimensions of Biodiversity grant. Dr. Jennifer Funk and I will advertise the second position in the coming months.
DESCRIPTION: The Ecology and Evolutionary Biology Department (https://www.eeb.ucsc.edu/) at the University of California, Santa Cruz (UCSC) invites applications for the position of Postdoctoral Scholar under the direction of Associate Professor Kathleen Kay under a five-year NSF Dimensions of Biodiversity grant (“Biotic and abiotic drivers of Neotropical plant speciation”). The scholar will investigate the phylogeny, population genomics, and quantitative genetics of the spiral gingers (monocot genus Costus). The project is a collaboration among PIs Kathleen Kay (UCSC), Jennifer Funk (Chapman University), Carlos Garcia-Robledo (University of Connecticut), Santiago Ramirez (UC Davis) and Dena Grossenbacher (Cal Poly SLO) to uncover patterns and mechanisms of speciation in a recent, rapid radiation throughout Central and South America. The first years will be focused on phylogenetics and population genomics, whereas later years will be focused on QTL mapping and field testing of key traits and loci involved in adaptive divergence and reproductive isolation. Primary responsibilities include experimental design, coordinating and conducting sequence data collection, managing and analyzing large datasets, mentoring undergraduate and graduate students, coordinating research collaborators, and contributing to the dissemination of results through manuscripts, presentations, public outreach, and agency reports. Applicants with the following preferred qualifications are strongly encouraged to apply: experience generating and analyzing next gen sequence data from non-model plants, excellent bioinformatics skills, a strong interest in plant speciation and adaptation, and a track record of publishing in leading journals. The position requires excellent time management and written/oral communication skills. The scholar will be based at UCSC, with opportunities for lab exchanges and fieldwork in Costa Rica and Panama. More information on the Kay Lab can be found at https://kay.eeb.ucsc.edu/
ACADEMIC TITLE AND SALARY: Postdoctoral Scholar. Minimum annual salary of $48,216, commensurate with qualifications and experience. Minimum annual salary rates are made based on the individual’s Experience Level, which is determined by the number of months of postdoctoral service at any institution. See current salary scale for Postdoctoral Titles athttps://apo.ucsc.edu/compensation/salary-scales/index.html
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS: Ph.D. or foreign equivalent in Biology or related field, as well as a minimum of two years experience in phylogenetic and/or population genetic laboratory research.
POSITION AVAILABLE: April 1, 2018. Start date could be as late as October 1, 2018. Ph.D. must be in hand at time of the initial appointment.
MAXIMUM DURATION OF SERVICE IN A POSTDOCTORAL TITLE: Postdoctoral Scholar appointments are full-time; the initial appointment is for two years, with the possibility of reappointment. Reappointment will be contingent upon positive performance review and availability of funding. The total duration of an individual’s postdoctoral service may not exceed five years, including postdoctoral service at any institution. Under limited circumstances, an exception to this limit may be considered, not to exceed a sixth year.
APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS: Applications should be emailed to Kathleen Kay kmkay@ucsc.edu. All documents and materials must be submitted as PDFs. Please refer to Position # EEB Postdoctoral Scholar-18T in all correspondence. Informal inquiries may be sent to kmkay@ucsc.edu
Documents/Materials:
Cover letter describing past research experience and qualifications for this position (required)
Current curriculum vitae (required)
A list of three references that includes their contact information (required)
Up to three copies of published manuscripts-submitted as separate pdfs (required)
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