Postdoctoral Research Associate, Fishman Lab, Plant Evolutionary Genomics, Centromere Drive Project

Description

The Fishman Lab at the University of Montana is seeking a postdoctoral associate to join our NSF-funded research program in plant evolutionary genomics. This project focuses on mechanisms and consequences of centromere-mediated meiotic drive in yellow monkeyflowers. However, we are interested in gaining a colleague engaged with our diverse work on the genomic and evolutionary mechanisms that generate plant variation, using monkeyflowers as a model system.

The centromere drive project investigates the roles of satellite DNA, centromeric proteins, and linked genes in selfish chromosomal transmission through female meiosis. The postdoctoral associate’s key responsibility will be analyses of satellite DNA evolution within and among functionally distinct centromeres, using new chromosome-scale genome assemblies of yellow monkeyflowers (Mimulus guttatus species complex). Monkeyflowers are a uniquely powerful system for investigating how selfish centromeres violate Mendelian segregation, but also for understanding chromosome/centromere evolution more broadly. Chromosome scale genome assemblies from >40 accessions across the genus, along with newly-optimized tools for genetic manipulation and a large collaborative community, provide a tremendous opportunity for exploring plant genome evolution in the context of adaptation and speciation.  Therefore, we particularly encourage applicants interested in developing their own Mimulus research program at the interface of genetic conflict and genome evolution.

The postdoctoral associate’s primary activities will include:

• Generating and analyzing comparative genomic and epigenomic (e.g., Cut & Tag) datasets
• helping train, mentor and supervise personnel, including graduate and undergraduate students
• disseminating project results through publications (i.e., writing papers) and presentations
• participating in outreach and training/teaching activities, including a bioinformatics CURE

As time allows, the postdoc would also be encouraged to participate in ongoing aspects (field work, genetic mapping, transcriptomics) of the centromere drive project, develop related research questions, and become involved with other collaborative projects on selfish evolution, adaptation, and/or speciation in monkeyflowers.

The postdoc will be co-mentored by Dr. Fishman (University of Montana, Missoula MT) and Dr. Findley Finseth (Scripps College, Claremont, CA). The postdoc may choose to be physically based in either location, with support for cross-institution travel. However, while periodic remote work is possible, the position is expected to be in-person in either California or Montana.

 

Position Details

Position is full-time, 1.0 FTE, Letter of Appointment and includes a comprehensive and competitive benefits package including insurance package, mandatory retirement plan, partial tuition waiver, and wellness program.

Salary: $65,000-70,000 per year (depending on prior experience).

Start date: flexible, but ideally between September and December 2025.

The initial appointment will be for one year, with 1-3 (depending on research activities relative to overall project goals) additional years possible pending satisfactory performance and funding.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

• Candidates must have a Ph.D. in Ecology & Evolutionary Biology, Genetics, Genomics, Plant Biology, or a related discipline and experience generating and bioinformatically analyzing large (epi)genomic datasets.
• Solid background in common statistical and bioinformatic methods used in plant genomics/transcriptomics and familiarity with plant morphology/anatomy.
• Strong work ethic and excellent problem-solving, written communication, and time management skills.
• A track record of independent research activity resulting in first-authored publications.
• Evidence of a commitment to mentoring undergraduate students.

 

 

Preferred Qualifications:

• Prior experience with the population genetics of conflict/selfish evolution, plant cytogenetics/epigenetics, and/or genomic analysis of repetitive DNA elements in an