Postdoctoral Fellow

Position: POSTDOCTORAL FELLOW
The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) invites applications for a Postdoctoral Fellow in the laboratory of Dr. Erin

E. Easton (Port Isabel, TX, (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below).), with a research focus on integrative systematics and/or phylogenomics of corals. The successful candidate will contribute to a vibrant, collaborative research environment and pursue independent and collaborative research as a vital component of professional development.

This position emphasizes the generation and analysis of phylogenomic datasets for corals, with particular focus on octocorals, and may also include black corals (Antipatharia). The postdoctoral fellow will work under general supervision, exercising initiative and independent judgment in research activities. Application review starting June 1 until filled.

Description of Duties

In alignment with the UTRGV Postdoctoral Fellow scope and expectations, responsibilities may include:

* Developing, testing, and analyzing research projects in integrative systematics and phylogenomics of corals.

* Obtaining, curating, and analyzing genomic or phylogenomic datasets (e.g., target capture, phylogenomics, comparative genomics).

* Writing narrative summaries of research results and preparing manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed journals.

* Conducting background research and literature synthesis relevant to coral evolution, biodiversity, and systematics.

* Co-leading the development, writing, and submission of at least two external grant proposals in collaboration with the supervising faculty member.

* Assisting with the mentoring and supervision of master's students, including guidance on research design, analyses, and writing.

* Developing and implementing evaluation or data management plans and preparing progress reports as needed.

* Supporting training activities within the lab and contributing to a collaborative research culture.

* Performing other job-related duties as assigned in support of the lab's research mission.

Supervision Received

General supervision from immediate faculty supervisor.

Supervision Given

None.

Required Education

Doctoral degree (Ph.D. or equivalent) from an accredited university in a STEM field (e.g., biology, evolution, systematics, genomics, marine science, or a related discipline) by the start date.

Preferred Education

None.

Licenses/Certifications

None.

Required Experience

None.

Preferred Experience

* Experience with phylogenomics, bioinformatics, or evolutionary genomics.

* Demonstrated research interest in coral systematics.

* Evidence of peer-reviewed publications and/or grant-writing experience.

* Experience mentoring undergraduate or graduate students.

Equipment

Use of personal computer and proficiency in software and research statistical applications.

Working Conditions

Needs to be able to successfully perform all required duties. Office/research environment; some travel and weekend work is required. UTRGV is a distributed institution, which requires presence at multiple locations throughout the Rio Grande Valley.

Other

This is a trainee position subject to a specific time as agreed to by stakeholders.

Physical Capabilities

N/A

Employment Category Full-Time Minimum Salary Commensurate with Experience Posted Salary Commensurate with Experience Position Available Date 05/27/2026 Grant Funded Position Yes If Yes, Provide Grant Expiration Date 12/31/2027