Postdoctoral Research Associate - Genomics & Conservation Biology (2-Year Position)

Executive Director Assistant or Associate Professor-UMCES... Postdoctoral Research Associate - Genomics & Conservation Biology (2-Year Position) Employer University of Wisconsin - Madison Location Madison, Wisconsin Salary $70,000 / year + benefits Closing date Jun 3, 2026 categories Apply now Job Details Project Overview The project seeks to unravel the ecological and evolutionary mechanisms sharing individual dispersal patterns and population range expansion of invasive barred owls (Strix varia) in California. Using genomic kinship and landscape genomics approaches, the project integrates existing and newly generated SNP data (Oxford Nanopore sequencing) to understand movement pathways and environmental drivers of dispersal. Additional genomics-based projects of mutual interest can be developed. Because barred owls are an invasive species in the Pacific Northwest and California, this work is situated within a broader management context that includes lethal removal. Applicants should be aware of and comfortable working within this applied conservation framework. Primary Responsibilities Oxford Nanopore library preparation and sequencing Generate and analyze genomic data (whole genome, ddRAD, adaptive sequencing) Perform population and landscape genomic analyses to address project objectives Lead preparation of at least two peer-reviewed manuscript Required Qualifications Ph.D. in ecology, evolutionary biology, genetics, genomics, wildlife biology, or a related field Experience with molecular laboratory techniques and genomics data analysis Strong scientific writing skills and history of publishing impactful peer-reviewed papers in ecology, evolutionary, or conservation journals. Ability to work independently and collaboratively Willingness to work with samples derived from invasive species removal Preferred Qualifications Experience with next-generation sequencing (NGS) library preparation Familiarity with Linux and high-performance computing environments Experience analyzing SNP and/or whole genome datasets Background in conservation genomics or molecular ecology Research Environment The postdoctoral researcher will work directly with Dr. Emily Fountain in a collaborative genomics lab that emphasizes shared learning, mentorship, and teamwork. The selected applicant will also work under supervision and collaboration with Dr. Zach Peery. This position involves engaging with the Peery Lab through meetings and group activities, with opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration and community-building. This project is conducted in partnership with the Hoopa Valley Tribe, and we welcome applicants interested in research at the intersection of genomics, conservation, and Tribal natural resource priorities. We value diverse perspectives, interdisciplinary experiences, and community-engaged approaches to science.

Website:

https://peery.russell.wisc.

edu/ Institutional statement on diversity:

Diversity is a source of strength, creativity, and innovation for UW-Madison. We value the contributions of each person and respect the profound ways their identity, culture, background, experience, status, abilities, and opinion enrich the university community. We commit ourselves to the pursuit of excellence in teaching, research, outreach, and diversity as inextricably linked goals. The University of Wisconsin-Madison fulfills its public mission by creating a welcoming and inclusive community for people from every background - people who as students, faculty, and staff serve Wisconsin and the world. Position Details This is a full-time, 2-year position, with the potential to extend pending additional funding. This position will be based full-time, on site, at the University of Wisconsin - Madison.

Salary:

$70,000 + benefits Anticipated start date: Earliest start date is anticipated to be 15 June 2026 Application Materials