Postdoctoral Researcher - Evolutionary Genomics

The Ahmed-Braimah Lab invites applications for a highly motivated Postdoctoral Researcher to join a dynamic and interdisciplinary research program focused on the evolutionary genomics of Drosophila. The successful candidate will lead computational and integrative genomics research aimed at understanding the molecular basis of evolutionary divergence, reproductive interactions, and speciation across the Drosophila genus. This position offers exceptional opportunities for scientific independence, cross-disciplinary collaboration, and preparation for a career in academia or advanced research.

Understanding how genomes evolve and how genetic divergence results in biological differences-including reproductive incompatibilities, sex-specific traits, and hybrid dysfunction-is a core problem in evolutionary biology. The Ahmed-Braimah Lab leverages Drosophila as a powerful comparative genomic system to dissect the molecular processes underlying these phenomena. Species in the

D. virilis subgroup, in particular, provide a unique opportunity to study rapidly evolving reproductive traits, tissue-specific gene expression, post-mating interactions, gametic incompatibilities, and hybrid sterility-all within a tractable genomic framework.

The Postdoctoral Researcher will lead computational analyses of multi-omic datasets from multiple Drosophila species and populations, coupled with molecular genetics experiments. The exact project focus can be tailored to the researcher's expertise and interests. Researchers with backgrounds in computational biology, evolutionary genomics, or Drosophila genomics are encouraged to apply.

This position is part of a bargaining unit and is represented by the union SEIU, Local 200

United.

Qualifications

* Ph.D. in evolutionary biology, genetics, genomics, computational biology, bioinformatics, or a related quantitative field.

Job Specific Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

* Demonstrated experience with genomic data analysis, evolutionary genomics, or comparative genomics.

* Proficiency in one or more programming languages (Python, R, Bash).

* Familiarity working in Linux/Unix environments and managing large-scale data.

* Strong communication, organizational, and writing skills.

* Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively.

Preferred Qualifications

* Experience studying Drosophila or another tractable genetic model organism.

* Expertise in comparative genomics, population genomics, or regulatory genomics.

* Experience with workflow managers (Snakemake, Nextflow) and reproducible environments (Conda, Singularity).

* Background in studying reproductive biology, molecular divergence, or speciation (not required but advantageous).

* Experience with high-throughput multi-omics datasets and integrated analysis.

* Strong publication record and evidence of creativity and independence.

* Interest in mentoring and contributing to collaborative research culture.

Responsibilities

* Perform research tasks as outlined by project needs and the principal investigator. This primarily includes designing, performing, and analyzing experiments.

* Disseminate findings through publications, conferences, and seminar presentations.

* Co-mentor graduate students and undergraduate researchers.

* Other duties as assigned.

Physical Requirements

Not applicable.

Tools/Equipment

Not applicable.

Application Instructions

In addition to completing an online application, please attach a curriculum vitae and cover letter.