Post-Doctoral Research Associate: Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology - UTK

The Sheldon Lab in the Department of Ecology & Evolutionary Biology at the University of Tennessee (www.biogeographyresearch.org) is seeking 1-2 Post-Doctoral Research Associates to work on an NSF-funded project in collaboration with the Marshall Lab in the Department of Zoology at the University of British Columbia. This project is investigating the evolution of thermal physiology in tropical and temperate species using dung beetles as the experimental system.  

The position is temporary (up to 3.5 months depending on start date) and can be remote.  

 

 

The primary research responsibilities will include 

(1) genome assembly for one and annotation for two temperate species of dung beetle (data are already collected), and 

(2) publishing manuscripts from these genomes.

Qualifications:

• A PhD in biology, ecology and evolution, behavior, or a related field. 
• Research experience in thermal physiology is a plus but not required.
• Experience in genome assembly and annotation are required
• Quantitative skills in statistical analysis and modeling
• Highly motivated with the ability to work well independently and as part of a team.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• The ability to bring projects to fruition, demonstrated by publications in peer-reviewed journals.
• Motivation to engage with outreach and education related to the project.

Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without need now or in the future for sponsorship for employment visa status.

Timeline and How to Apply 

Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the positions are filled. The preferred start date is May 15, 2025 with some flexibility to extend the start date. The appointment ends on August 31, 2025. Remote work is an option.

Please include the following items in a single document with the online application: (1) a cover letter, (2) a CV (include expected completion date of PhD, if appropriate), and (3) contact information for three references.

About The Department of Ecology & Evolutionary Biology and the University of Tennessee

The Department of Ecology & Evolutionary Biology values the quality of life of all its members, and we are committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse community and to supporting the intercultural goals of the University. Knoxville is an exciting city that has undergone a vibrant civic revitalization over the past several years and is being recognized as one of the most exciting up-and-coming regions in the country, yet it remains one of the most affordable cities in the United States. Nestled in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, Knoxville offers a broad spectrum of educational, recreational, and cultural opportunities.

 

The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, has shaped leaders, changemakers, and innovative thinkers since its founding in 1794. The university is home to more than 38,000 students and 10,000 statewide employees—the Volunteers—who uphold the university’s tradition of lighting the way for others through leadership and service. 

UT Knoxville offers over 900 programs of study across 14 degree-granting colleges and schools. As Tennessee’s flagship land-grant university, its footprint spans the entire state. The university holds the highest Carnegie classification for research activity and has deep partnerships with industry leaders and the US Department of Energy’s largest multidisciplinary laboratory, Oak Ridge National Laboratory. 

The Knoxville campus serves and recruits for UT Knoxville, including the Institute of Agriculture and the Space Institute, as well as the UT Institute of Public Service.  

UT Knoxville considers its employees its number one asset. With values that focus on work-life balance, compensation, and innovation leadership, all Vols are supported to advance professionally. Employees have access to career development and coaching, continued education, and an extensive list of development and training possibilities. The Volunteer employee experience implements structures and practices that attract and retain a diverse community and that support a culture where everyone matters and belongs.  

The university holds a strong commitment to its land-grant mission of learning and engagement, with a tradition of service and leadership that carries that Volunteer spirit throughout the state and around the world. It has been ranked nationally as “Best Employer for New Graduates,” “One of America’s Best Large Employers,” and “Best Workplace for Women,” and has been designated as “Best Place for Working Parents” by Forbes Magazine.  

Apply today and join the Tennessee Volunteer community!