Senior Research Associate

Position Overview

A Senior Research Associate position is available in the laboratory of Dr. Charleston Chiang  Chiang lab focuses on using genomic data to understand the evolution and architecture of complex traits and the history of diverse human populations. The successful candidate will provide substantive input into the direction of ongoing research projects and may pursue new projects that align with the lab’s research interests and funded R35 and R01 grants.

• Assist and oversee multiple ongoing research projects in the lab.
• Explore new research opportunities related to demographic history, natural selection, genetic architecture, and evolutionary history of complex traits in diverse populations.
• Develop methods and analyze large‑scale genotyping, next‑generation sequencing, and multi‑omic data.
• Participate in training, mentoring, and supervision of graduate students and post‑doctoral researchers.
• Maintain a longer‑term commitment (greater than 2 years) contingent on progress in research.

• Ph.D. in genetics, computer science, bioinformatics, computational biology, or a related field.
• At least 3 years of experience conducting human or population genetics research in a Unix‑based computing environment.
• Minimum 18 months of postdoctoral experience.
• Proficiency in at least one programming language (e.g., Python, C++, R).

The position is based in the greater Los Angeles area—including Los Angeles, Orange, San Bernardino, Riverside, and Ventura counties—within daily commute distance from the USC campus. Some work from home is possible.

The annual base salary range is $76,675.67 to $90,000, commensurate with prior experience and relevant expertise.

Informal inquiries can be directed to Dr. Charleston Chiang ang.edu. Please submit a CV, a short cover letter (1–2 pages) describing your research interests and fit within the lab, and contact information for 2–3 references. Reference letters are accepted but not required at this stage.

USC 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, protected veteran status, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or USC policy. USC observes affirmative action obligations consistent with state and federal law. USC will consider for employment all qualified applicants with criminal records in a manner consistent with applicable laws and regulations, including the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for employers and the Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, and with due consideration for patient and student safety.

Please refer to the Background Screening Policy Appendix D for specific employment screen implications for this position.

We provide reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. Applicants with questions about access or requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process should contact USC Human Resources by phone at (213) 821‑8100, or by email uiries will be treated as confidential to the extent permitted by law.