Research Associate in Biology

The Bergland lab at the University of Virginia is seeking to hire a post-doctoral Research Associate to study the evolutionary genetics of rapid adaptation in Drosophila to seasonal fluctuations selection pressure. Temporal fluctuations in selection pressures are a ubiquitous feature across the tree of life. Adaptive tracking, a form of rapid evolution in which populations evolve to track environmental change, has been proposed as a key evolutionary strategy to deal with such environmental heterogeneity. Yet, despite its potential importance, adaptive tracking remains poorly characterized in natural populations, in part due to the lack of genomic time-series data from the wild. Recent work by our lab has made progress identifying the genetic architecture of adaptive tracking in Drosophila melanogaster by studying the temporal changes in allele frequencies through time in natural populations, and we seek to use this system to gain insight into basic evolutionary questions. Research conducted by the successful applicant can address a variety of questions using experimental and observational studies that incorporate genomic, molecular, and phenotypic data to ask: (1) What are the genetic targets of adaptive tracking and are they shared across closely related taxa? (2) What is the contribution of spatial variation to seasonal adaptive tracking? And (3) what is the role of meta-population structure in shaping adaptive dynamics of wild populations? There is flexibility in the approaches to address these broad research questions, and the successful applicant will be expected to play a central role in designing and directing experiments and analysis in ways that suit their expertise and training goals. You will also be encouraged and supported to submit fellowship applications geared toward advancing your independence and career goals. QUALIFICATIONS REQUIREMENTS: A PhD in Biology or a related field is required by the start date. Research experience in with population, quantitative, or molecular genetics is required. Evidence of capacity to communicate research in verbal or written form is required. Preferred qualifications. Experience working with genetic/genomic datasets, next-generation sequencing data, and knowledge of R, Python, or Perl (or equivalent) is preferred. Experience working with high-performance computing and experience working with undergraduate researchers or in a team setting is preferred. Experience working with Drosophila, or other organisms, in an experimental setting is preferred. APPLICATION PROCEDURE: Apply online at https://uva.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/UVAJobs and attach a cover letter, CV/resume, and contact information for three references (name, email address, telephone number, and address). Please note that multiple documents can be uploaded in the box. APPLICATION DEADLINE: Review of applications will begin on March 10, 2023, but the position will remain open until filled. The University will perform background checks on all new hires prior to employment. This is a one-year appointment; however, the appointment may be renewed for an additional two, one-year increments, contingent upon available funding and satisfactory performance. For questions regarding this position, contact Alan Bergland, Associate Professor, at [email protected]. For questions regarding the application process, contact Rich Haverstrom, Faculty Search Advisor, at [email protected]. For more information on the benefits available to postdoctoral associates at UVA, visit postdoc.virginia.edu and hr.virginia.edu/benefits. The University of Virginia is consistently ranked as a top public institution. Situated within iconic and historic Charlottesville, Virginia, with convenient airport and interstate access, we are located within one hour of Richmond and two hours of Washington D.C. Charlottesville is consistently ranked as one of the most livable cities in America. The postdoctoral affairs website at the following URL provides more information on resources for postdocs at the University of Virginia: http://postdoc.virginia.edu/. COVID Vaccination Requirement and Guidelines Please visit the UVA COVID-19 Job Requirements and Guidelines webpage prior to applying for current information regarding vaccination requirements and guidelines for employment at UVA. The University of Virginia, including the UVA Health System which represents the UVA Medical Center, Schools of Medicine and Nursing, UVA Physician’s Group and the Claude Moore Health Sciences Library, are fundamentally committed to the diversity of our faculty and staff. We believe diversity is excellence expressing itself through every person's perspectives and lived experiences. We are equal opportunity and affirmative action employers. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity or expression, marital status, national or ethnic origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, veteran status, and family medical or genetic information. The University of Virginia is an iconic public institution of higher education, boasting nationally ranked schools and programs, diverse and distinguished faculty, a major academic medical center, and proud history as a renowned research university. In January of 1819, the Commonwealth of Virginia’s General Assembly chartered what would become the University of Virginia. Entering our third century, the University has served Virginia, the nation, and the world by: educating responsible citizen-leaders; advancing, preserving, and disseminating knowledge; and providing world-class patient care. These responsibilities are enduring and continue to inspire our efforts. 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