Postdoctoral Research Scientist- Lichens

Current job opportunities are posted here as they become available.

FLSA Status: Exempt

Department: Negaunee Integrative Research

Our Mission: Since the 1893 World Columbian Exposition, our organization has aimed to connect people to the natural environment and human history.

• Comprehensive Health Coverage:
  Including medical, dental, vision plans, and even pet insurance.
• Financial Security:
  Life and disability benefits plus a 403(b) savings plan to help you plan for the future.
• Work-Life Balance:
  Generous paid time off, paid sick leave, and paid holidays to ensure you have time to recharge and spend with loved ones.
• Exclusive Perks:
  Enjoy great employee discounts and complimentary general admission to participating cultural institutions.

We're dedicated to enhancing your life both at work and beyond!

The Grainger Bioinformatics Center of the Collections, Conservation, and Research Division at the Field Museum is seeking a highly motivated and skilled Postdoctoral Research Associate for a full‑time, two‑year term position, with the possibility of extension.

This privately funded (non‑government) position focuses on advancing research in the comparative genomics and population genomics/phylogenomics of lichen symbioses, particularly involving non‑model organisms and complex symbiotic systems.

This position offers an exciting opportunity to explore evolutionary diversification, population structure, and genomic adaptation in lichens, with an emphasis on fungal symbionts and their interactions with algal and bacterial partners. The research leverages whole‑genome sequencing, target enrichment, and RADseq to investigate co‑evolution, genomic convergence, and ecological specialization across taxonomic and geographic scales.

• Analyze genomic datasets, including assembly, annotation, and comparative analysis of symbiont genomes.
• Develop and apply workflows for phylogenomic inference, population structure analysis, and species delimitation.
• Collaborate on sequencing, data integration, and interpretation of multi‑omic datasets.
• Contribute to manuscript writing, presentations, and broader dissemination of research outcomes.
• Participate in mentoring and training undergraduate students, particularly those from underrepresented groups in STEM fields.

The position includes support and career development under a formal Postdoctoral Mentoring Plan.

The postdoctoral researcher is expected to publish at least one lead‑author manuscript per year and to contribute to collaborative publications.

The position is based at The Field Museum in Chicago, and active on‑site participation is expected.

• PhD in bioinformatics, computational biology, evolutionary biology, or a related discipline.
• Proven experience in genomic data analysis, especially in comparative or population genomics.
• Proficiency in one or more scripting languages (e.g., Python, R, Perl, Bash).
• Familiarity with standard bioinformatics pipelines for sequence analysis, genome assembly, and variant analysis.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work both independently and in a collaborative, interdisciplinary environment.

• Experience with RADseq, target enrichment, or metagenomic sequencing approaches.
• Interest in molecular evolution, non‑model organisms, and integrative evolutionary analysis.

Receives general supervision from the Director of Phylogenomics Initiative, Grainger Bioinformatics Center

The position has no direct supervisory responsibilities.

35 hours

Not eligible

1400 S. DuSable Lake Shore Dr. Chicago, IL 60605

This position is represented by Field Museum Workers’ United, AFSCME Council 31, AFL-CIO.

$61,461.58/Annually

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The Field Museum is an equal‑opportunity employer. We are committed to providing a workplace free from discrimination, embracing diversity, and fostering mutual respect. We value the unique perspectives each team member brings, which empowers our ability to innovate and overcome challenges.

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