A postdoctoral research associate position is available in the Zhuang Lab in the Department of Biological Sciences, University of Arkansas. We are looking for highly motivated researchers who are willing to tackle fundamental questions in both basic evolution and biomedical research. Research interests in the Zhuang Lab include understanding the genetic basis of complex trait variation and novel trait evolution, involving the genetic architecture of complex diseases, the origination of genetic novelty and diversity, and the underlying molecular mechanisms. Employing molecular evolution, quantitative genetics, genomics, and bioinformatics, the research group conducts studies on both model organisms, such as fruit flies, and non-model organisms, such as polar fishes.

Qualifications

• PhD. in Quantitative Genetics, Evolutionary Genetics, Statistical Genetics, or related fields;
• Proficiency in R and Python or other programming languages;
• Experience analyzing omic data sets (e.g. genome, transcriptome, metabolome, etc.);
• Good understanding of evolution and genetics theory and methodology;
• Strong written and oral communication skills, and ability to work independently and in collaboration with others.

Responsibilities

The posdoc fellow will lead a NIH funded project to investigate cryptic genetic variation and gene-environment interaction underlying complex disease traits related to metabolism using Drosophila models. The primary responsibilities of this position are developing and implementing computational pipelines to carry out genetic mapping analysis, and genome/transcriptome/metabolome wide association studies, interpreting and organizing results into publishable papers and grant proposals. Other responsibilities include data management, mentoring students, and providing bioinformatics support for the lab.

Application Instructions

Please email Dr. Zhuang (xz036@uark.edu) the following materials:

(1) CV (includes publications and pre-prints),

(2) a cover letter outlining previous research experience and future plans, specifically how they are related to the research focus in our lab,

(3) contact information for two references.