Several postdoctoral positions in evolutionary physiology and genomics are available to work with the Good and Cheviron research groups (University of Montana) and the Storz group (University of Nebraska). Successful candidates may be based on either campus, and remote work is also possible.

We are seeking Postdoctoral Researchers interested in collaborating on an NSF- and NIH-funded project focused on adaptation to extreme elevations in Andean mice. Recent discoveries of leaf-eared mice living on summits of high Andean volcanoes have challenged our understanding of the elevational limits of mammalian life (Storz et al. 2020 PNAS). We are working to understand the physiological and genomic mechanisms that allow these mice to survive under such extreme conditions. This is a large, interdisciplinary project, with opportunities ranging from physiological experiments to evolutionary genomic analysis. The project involves a collaboration with the labs of Guillermo D’Elía and Juan Opazo (both at Universidad Austral de Chile) and provides opportunities for fieldwork in South America. As a result, we are seeking postdoctoral researchers with a range of scientific backgrounds, successful candidates may have expertise in any field ranging from environmental physiology to computational biology. Successful candidates will focus on project aspects within their core areas of expertise, but will be encouraged to extend their skillsets through participation and training in new skills and analyses. A strong background in one of the following fields - evolutionary physiology, high-altitude biology, evolutionary genetics, or computational biology - and a Ph.D. in biology or a related field is required.

These positions are available immediately, but there is some flexibility with respect to the start date.

The appointee will write papers for publication based on research, compose projects reports and contribute to grant applications; present at seminars and national meetings; and participate in research group meetings that may include oral and/or written brief reports. The appointee may be asked to supervise research personnel including undergraduate and/or graduate students, providing training and guidance with regard to specific techniques. The appointee may assist students in their research efforts, acting as a resource and a mentor. This requires good communication and teaching skills and thorough knowledge of the technical aspects of the various scientific procedures to be conducted.

Our labs value diversity and we encourage candidates with unique backgrounds and skills to apply, especially candidates from backgrounds that are traditionally underrepresented in STEM. We value prior contributions that candidates have put towards diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. The University of Montana and the University of Nebraska both offer vibrant research communities. For further information on this position and our research please visit our lab websites (thegoodlab.org; chevironlab.org; storzlab.unl.edu) and email one or more of us directly at jeffrey.good@umontana.edu ; zachary.cheviron@umontana.edu ; jstorz2@unl.edu. All applicants are encouraged to contact us prior to applying.

The University of Montana is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity employer and has a strong institutional commitment to the principle of diversity in all areas. In that spirit, we are particularly interested in receiving applications from a broad spectrum of qualified people who would assist the University in demonstrating its five priorities for action : Place student success at the center of all we do; drive excellence and innovation in teaching, learning, and research; embody the principle of “mission first, people always"; partner with place; and proudly tell the UM story.

• PhD in Biology with emphasis on evolutionary genetics or closely related specialty
• Demonstrated experience of excellent research capabilities required to carry out innovative and insightful research
• Ability to identify, analyze and summarize relevant literature
• Ability to devise and articulate a research plan with defined goals, and design sound experimental strategies with appropriate controls
• Proven record and ability to produce research to a high publication standard
• Ability to learn and apply new skills appropriate to conduct necessary research
• Knowledge and experience in laboratory environment
• Proven ability to communicate complex ideas and concepts (both orally and in writing) to scientific and non-scientific audiences
• Ability and willingness to undertake collaborative research
• Ability to supervise and mentor undergraduate and graduate students
• Ability to maintain a safe working and learning environment
• Ability to achieve project goals within time and budget
• Strong theoretical and empirical background
• Demonstrated experience and/or knowledge in the following techniques:
  • Basic principles of evolutionary genetics
  • Basic principles of phylogenetics
  • Basic molecular biology (e.g., PCR, qPCR, library preparation)
  • Programming in R, python and/or related languages to carry out analyses
• Demonstrated ability to carry out successful field work
• Good supervisory skills
• Ability to manage several projects of a highly complex nature simultaneously
• Ability to actively participate in professional development
• Willingness to assist with the daily administration of the laboratory (lab safety, orderliness, supplies, and reporting)

Position Details

• Position is full-time, 1.0 FTE, Letter of Appointment and includes a comprehensive and competitive benefits package including Insurance package, mandatory retirement plan, partial tuition waiver, and wellness program.
• Salary for this position is $55,000 - $65,000 per year, commensurate with experience. Salary will be in-line with NIH pay scales and additional support is available for relocation costs.
• Remote accommodations are negotiable provided primary data collection targets can be achieved, and the position start date will be flexible contingent on the needs of the preferred candidate.

About the Division of Biological Sciences and UM

The Division of Biological Sciences at The University of Montana-Missoula strives to deliver high-quality academic Programs in the biological sciences.  The division’s mission includes educating students at all levels from the baccalaureate to the doctoral, so that they develop the knowledge, skills, and attitudes to succeed as professional biologists and as citizens in a rapidly changing world facing problems that include significant biological components; to foster strong research programs that create new knowledge, understanding, and approaches in biology and that enhance the learning environment for students; and to apply biological science to benefit the university, state, region, nation, and the world.

The University of Montana is flagship, research institution with more than 9,000 undergraduate and graduate students. It is located in Missoula, a culturally vibrant community of about 75,000, surrounded by mountains and three rivers converge. Abundant recreational opportunities in surrounding state and national forests and nearby Glacier National Park and Yellowstone National Park complement a thriving intellectual atmosphere.

To learn more about the University of Montana, please visit the links below.

Criminal Background Investigation is required prior to Offer of Employment.
In accordance with University policy, finalists for this position will be subject to criminal background investigations.
ADA/EOE/AA/Veteran's Preference.
Reasonable accommodations are provided in the hiring process for persons with disabilities. For example, this material is available in alternative format upon request. As an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer, we encourage applications from minorities, veterans, and women. Qualified candidates may request veterans’ or disabilities preference in accordance with state law.
References *References not listed on the application materials may be contacted; notice may be provided to the applicant.
Testing Individual hiring departments at UM may elect to administer pre-employment tests, which are relevant to essential job functions.

Employment Eligibility.  All New Employees must be eligible and show employment eligibility verification by the first date of employment at UM, as legally required (e.g., Form I-9).

Priority Application Date: Tuesday, September 20, 2022 by 11:59 pm MST

Applications received by this date will be guaranteed consideration.  Application review will begin after date above and continue until the position is filled. 

Please submit the following application materials via "New Resume/CV" button below. 

• Letter of Interest – describing your research interests and qualifications
• Detailed CV resume listing education and describing work experience
• Three (3) professional references - Names and contact information