Postdoctoral Research Associate

Title: Postdoctoral Research Associate

Employee Classification: Postdoctoral Research Assoc.

Campus: University of North Texas - Health Science Center

Division: HSC-Div of Rsrch & Innovation

SubDivision-Department: HSC-Health Institutes & Centers

Department: HSC-Center for Human ID-304600

Job Location: Fort Worth

Salary: $59,000 - $65,000

FTE: 1.000000

Retirement Eligibility:

About Us - Values Overview:

Welcome to the University of North Texas System. The UNT System includes the University of North Texas in Denton and Frisco, the University of North Texas at Dallas and UNT Dallas College of Law, and the University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth. We are the only university system based exclusively in the robust Dallas-Fort Worth region. We are growing with the North Texas region, employing more than 14,000 employees, educating a record 49,000+ students across our system, and awarding nearly 12,000 degrees each year.   We are one team comprised of individuals who are committed to excellence, curiosity and innovation. We are transforming lives and creating economic opportunity through education. We champion a people-first values-based culture where We Care about each other and those we serve. We believe that we are Better Together because we foster an environment of respect, belonging, and access for all. We demonstrate Courageous Integrity through setting exceptional standards and acting in the best interest of our communities. We are encouraged to Be Curious about opportunities for learning, creating, discovering, and innovating, and are encouraged to learn from failure. Show Your Fire by joining our team and exhibiting your passion and pride in your work as part of our UNT System team.   Learn more about the UNT System and how we live our values at www.UNTSystem.edu.

Department Summary

The Center for Human Identification (CHI) is an accredited forensic laboratory located on the campus of The University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth. With funding from the state of Texas and various Federal Government agencies, CHI supports DNA testing, forensic genetic genealogy, anthropological examinations, CODIS operations, forensic training, and cutting-edge research and development initiatives. CHI also manages the Texas Missing Persons DNA Database.

Position Overview

The Center for Human Identification (CHI) is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate for a forensic DNA research laboratory focused on the application of advanced techniques for the analysis of highly degraded human remains. The selected candidate will be responsible for developing and implementing innovative approaches to human identification, with an emphasis on the application of ancient DNA techniques. This position requires a strong foundation in forensic genetics, as well as a demonstrated commitment to staying at the forefront of emerging technologies and methodologies in the field.

Minimum Qualifications

Doctoral degree. If not yet conferred, a letter from the school's official Graduate Office and/or Registrar's Office certifying that all requirements have been met and stating the degree conferral date can be accepted. Employees in this job may be responsible for conducting research on, working on, or having the ability to access critical organizational infrastructure and they must be able to maintain the security and integrity of the infrastructure related to this role.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Expertise in processing skeletal remains for DNA analysis, including preparation of bone and tooth samples
• Proficient in a variety of DNA extraction techniques, particularly those tailored to ancient or highly degraded samples (e.g., Dabney et al., Loreille et al.)
• Demonstrated experience performing traditional STR typing on challenging skeletal remains, such as those that are degraded, environmentally exposed, or chemically altered.
• Hands-on experience with Next Generation Sequencing (NGS), including the MiSeq FGx platform, Illumina chemistries, and the use of custom sequencing panels. 
• Experience with mitochondrial DNA analysis through traditional Sanger sequencing or NGS methodologies. 
• Demonstrated record of peer-reviewed publications and professional presentations in the field of forensic biology.
• Experience mentoring students and/or early-career professionals in a research or academic setting.