Postdoctoral Fellow in Pollinator Evo-Devo and Behavior at The University of Arkansas
The Westerman Lab at the University of Arkansas is seeking a Postdoctoral Fellow to investigate the evo-devo of butterfly vision and plant-pollinator interactions, to begin as soon as Summer 2023. The Westerman Lab studies mechanisms underlying behavioral diversity and plasticity, with a focus on sensory system development and visual decision making in butterflies. We also examine plant-insect interactions. Current research topics include the role of genetics and social environment in mate preference development and evolution, behavioral and developmental plasticity, and sensory biases. The lab is an integrative animal behavior group, and integrates a wide range of techniques, including, but not limited to, genomics, transcriptomics, gene editing, controlled laboratory experiments, cell culture, and field ecology. Research incorporates both tropical butterflies and those native to Northwestern Arkansas, and takes advantage of multiple species-rich field sites within a 30-minute drive of campus. For more information, please visit the lab website at http://www.ericawesterman.org.
The successful candidate will be expected to work in close collaboration with Dr. Westerman and current lab members, and will have the opportunity to develop an independent research project within the scope of the lab. In addition, the successful candidate will have the opportunity to mentor undergraduate and graduate students. Dr. Westerman has collaborations within the Biology Department, as well as with faculty in both the Entomology and Plant Pathology Department and the Physics Department at UARK, and is part of a university-wide UA Integrative Systems Neuroscience group (https://brainresearch.uark.edu/). Postdocs in the lab have the opportunity to work across discipline, and are encouraged to initiate and develop innovative collaborative projects.
This technically integrative lab embraces creative approaches to studying animal behavior. Candidates with a background in genomics, gene editing, molecular ecology, neuroethology, or evolutionary development, in addition to animal behavior and behavioral ecology, are encouraged to apply.
Funding is currently available to support this position for up to four years, with the possibility for extension depending on funding and project progress.
Minimum Qualifications:
- PhD. in biological sciences or a related field conferred by the start of employment
- Demonstrated expertise in animal behavior, behavioral ecology, genomics, bioinformatics, gene editing, neuroethology, or evolutionary developmental biology techniques
- Experience with either multivariate statistics or statistical analysis of genomic data
- Demonstrated evidence of excellent writing skills
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience using CRISPR/Cas9
- Experience in animal behavior experimental design
- Experience in live animal husbandry
- Experience in field ecology
- Experience in cell culture
For a complete position announcement and information regarding how to apply, visit: https://uasys.wd5.myworkdayjobs.com/en-US/UASYS/job/Postdoctoral-Fellow-in-Biological-Sciences_R0034479-1?locations=17a66cdad98201f7890cfb48ca00e249
Applicants must submit a cover letter/letter of application, curriculum vitae, and a two-page description of research accomplishments and future plans uploaded to the ‘Other Document’ link. Please also include a list of three professional references (name, title, email address, and contact number) willing to provide letters of reference.
Applications received by May 15th, 2023 will be given priority, though the position will remain open until filled.
For more information, please contact:
Dr. Erica Westerman
Associate Professor
Department of Biological Sciences
University of Arkansas
The University of Arkansas is an equal opportunity, affirmative action institution. The university welcomes applications without regard to age, race/color, gender including pregnancy), national origin, disability, religion, marital or parental status, protected veteran status, military service, genetic information, sexual orientation or gender identity. Persons must have proof of legal authority to work in the United States on the first day of employment. All applicant information is subject to public disclosure under the Arkansas Freedom of Information Act.
