Postdoctoral Research Associate
Texas A&M AgriLifeAbout the role
Job Title
Postdoctoral Research AssociateAgency
Texas A&M Agrilife ResearchDepartment
Rangeland, Wildlife & Fisheries ManagementProposed Minimum Salary
$5,000.00 monthlyJob Location
College Station, TexasJob Type
StaffJob Description
About Texas A&M AgriLife
Texas A&M AgriLife is comprised of the following Texas A&M University System members:
As the nation’s largest most comprehensive agriculture program, Texas A&M AgriLife brings together a college and four state agencies focused on agriculture and life sciences within The Texas A&M University System. With over 5,000 employees and a presence in every county across the state, Texas A&M AgriLife is uniquely positioned to improve lives, environments and the Texas economy through education, research, extension and service.
Click here to learn more about how you can be a part of AgriLife and make a difference in the world!
Position Information
Essential Duties of Job:
Develop and validate eDNA assays to detect bat species occurrence from environmental samples such as water, soil, and air filters, taking each assay from design through validation and into the laboratory's three-tier detection workflow of qPCR, digital PCR, and nanopore sequencing. Though the primary job location is in College Station, the successful candidate will travel to field sites in south Texas to collect samples and assist with acoustic monitor deployment and maintenance.
Responsibilities:
• Design and validate molecular assays, including evaluating performance metrics such as sensitivity, specificity, and reliability.
• Perform nucleic acid extraction and quality control on environmental samples, incorporating appropriate controls to manage inhibition and contamination.
• Apply and optimize molecular detection methods (e.g., qPCR, digital PCR, sequencing) and interpret the results with strong analytical rigor.
• Coordinate with field teams to plan and execute sampling efforts, ensuring adherence to study design, sample integrity, and proper documentation.
• Analyze complex datasets and communicate findings through peer-reviewed publications, reports, and presentations to scientific and stakeholder audiences.
• Maintain high standards of data management, reproducibility, and record keeping in accordance with responsible conduct of research.
• Mentor students and junior personnel and support the advancement of the broader research program.
Required Qualifications:
PhD in molecular biology, microbiology, wildlife ecology, or a related field.
Preferred Qualifications:
• Hands-on experience with nucleic acid extraction from environmental or other
Apply for this role
Generate a tailored application kit with a matched cover letter, interview prep, and CV highlights — in under 60 seconds.
Apply Now →Generate Application KitFree account required — sign up in 30s