Postdoc Evolutionary Genomics Molecular and Cell Biology

Position Overview

Postdoctoral Scholar Employee-3252 in Evolutionary Genomics within the Molecular and Cell Biology Department at the University of California, Berkeley.

Salary:
The UC postdoc salary scale ranges from approximately $69,073 to $77,030, depending on experience level. This position is designated 100% time, with a 2‑year term that may be extended based on performance and funding.

Anticipated start:
Summer 2026. The position will be based in Berkeley, California, with periodic travel to Panama for collaboration with other BCI‑EDGE postdoctoral scholars.

The Whiteman Lab conducts the BCI‑EDGE project, a multi‑institution effort studying evolutionary dynamics and genomic ecology of tropical forests. The project utilizes whole‑genome sequencing, experimental ecology, and decades of spatially explicit demographic data from the Barro Colorado Island plots in Panama. The overarching goal is to understand the evolutionary processes that maintain tropical forest diversity, focusing on how ecological interactions, natural selection, enemies, hybridization, and environmental gradients shape genetic diversity and species coexistence.

Lead one or more large‑scale population and comparative genomics projects under the guidance of the Principal Investigator, including:

• Managing and analyzing large genomic datasets.
• Applying computational methods for population history, introgression, selection, and gene/family evolution.
• Developing or modifying methods as needed.
• Drafting leading author publications and contributing to team manuscripts.
• Documenting analyses, statistical interpretations, and regularly presenting progress to the PI, at group meetings, and at conferences.
• Collaborating with investigators and postdocs across the BCI‑EDGE team and attending trips to Panama.

• Basic Qualifications (required at application):
  PhD (or equivalent international degree) or enrollment in a PhD program.
• Additional Qualifications (required at start):
  PhD completed by appointment start date; no more than three years of post‑degree research experience.
• Preferred Qualifications
  :
  • PhD in evolutionary biology, ecology, plant biology, genomics, or related field.
  • Documented experience in population, comparative, and/or evolutionary genomics, with computational methods for large‑scale genome data, population history, selection, and gene/family evolution.
  • Prior experience managing and analyzing large genomic datasets.
  • Strong peer‑review publication record.
  • Excellent scientific writing skills.
  • Ability to thrive on a diverse team.
  • Willingness to travel to Panama periodically.

• Curriculum Vitae (most recent).
• Cover Letter.
• Statement of Research.
• Three reference contact details (no letters required).

UC Berkeley is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, or protected veteran status. The university is committed to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging.