Postdoctoral Researcher
Other Academic
LSUAM Science - MNS - Ornithology Genetic Resources (Gregory Thom (00076688))
0119 M.J. Foster Hall
Other Academic
(80%) RESEARCH: To conduct computational genomic research as part of an NSF-funded project focused on resolving a taxonomically complete phylogeny of parrots using whole-genome data. The candidate should have extensive experience in genome assembly, whole-genome alignment, genome annotation, comparative genomics, and phylogenetic inference. Responsibilities will include processing and evaluating genomic datasets, characterizing genomic features that influence phylogenetic signal, and developing large-scale phylogenomic analyses for more than 700 parrot taxa. The candidate will also be responsible for preparing and publishing manuscripts associated with the main research projects, participating in field expeditions, and collaborating with colleagues at the LSUMNS and Department of Biological Sciences. Additional responsibilities include assisting graduate and undergraduate students and staff as needed, pursuing funding opportunities, and helping the PI generate preliminary data for federal grant proposals. The candidate is also expected to contribute to the LSUMNS academic community by attending seminars, participating in departmental activities, and hosting visiting researchers.
(10%) SERVICE, TRAINING & MENTORSHIP: To mentor and supervise the work of graduate students. To work in collaboration with external investigators and finish projects started in other labs as agreed with the PI. To promote and participate in LSUMNS outreach programs.
(10%) CURATORIAL AND FIELD WORK: To assist the curators of genetic resources in the upkeep and growth of the collection. Curatorial activities may include but are not limited to, database management, developing techniques to improve reliability and effectiveness of collection and vouchering of specimens, and collecting and preparing biological material.
Required Qualifications: Ph.D. in Biology, Genetics, Evolutionary Biology, Ecology, Zoology or a closely related discipline; Extensive experience with programming languages and modern bioinformatic and phylogenomic tools. Good background generating peer-reviewed publications. Experience with genome evolution, ornithology and genomics wet-lab.
Preferred Qualifications/Specific Experience: Publication record that reflects career stage in the field of Evolutionary Biology and Ornithology. Demonstrated experience in analyzing population genomic data to explore neutral and/or adaptive processes. Field experience (not required).
Special Instructions:
Please attach ALL required documents under the "Resume/CV" section of your application. Applicant should provide a CV, a cover letter, and contact information for three references.
A copy of your transcript(s) may be attached to your application (if applicable). However, original transcripts are required prior to hire.
For questions or concerns regarding the status of your application or salary ranges, please contact Dr. Gregory Thom at gthom@lsu.edu
The candidate will conduct research in collaboration with Dr. Gregory Thom and other members of the Louisiana State University Museum of Natural Science (LSUMNS) community. The primary research focus will be associated with the NSF-funded project, A genomic-architecture-aware approach for resolving a taxonomically complete phylogeny of parrots. As part of this project, the postdoctoral researcher will lead genomic analyses to infer a phylogeny including more than 700 parrot taxa using whole-genome data. The candidate will also help supervise graduate and undergraduate students on their research projects, participate in and organize field expeditions, and contribute to the curation and maintenance of the LSUMNS Collection of Genetic Resources.
October 8, 2026
February 5, 2027
Background Check - An offer of employment is contingent on a satisfactory pre-employment background check.
Benefits - LSU offers outstanding benefits to eligible employees and their dependents including health, life, dental, and vision insurance; flexible spending accounts; retirement options; various leave options; paid holidays; wellness benefits; tuition exemption for qualified positions; training and development opportunities; employee discounts; and more!
Positions approved to work outside the State of Louisiana shall be employed through Louisiana State University’s partner, nextSource Workforce Solutions, for Employer of Record Services including but not limited to employment, benefits, payroll, and tax compliance. Positions employed through Employer of Record Services will be offered benefits and retirement as applicable through their provider and will not be eligible for State of Louisiana benefits and retirement.
All candidates must have valid U.S. work authorization at the time of hire and maintain that valid work authorization throughout employment. Changes in laws, regulations, or government policies may impact the university’s ability to employ individuals in certain positions.
For questions or concerns related to updating your application with attachments (e.g., resumes, RS:17 documents), date of birth, or reactivating applications, please contact the LSU Human Resources Management Office at 225-578-8200 or email HR@lsu.edu. For questions or concerns regarding the status of your application or salary ranges, please contact the department using the information provided in the Special Instructions section of this job posting.
