Susan Balenger (https://susanbalenger.weebly.com/) is seeking a post-doctoral scientist to join an NSF-funded project for 1 year, and with possible extension, up to 3 years. The post doc will be based in the EEB department at UMN. Research focus is on understanding how changes in gene dosage associated with polyploidization in the gray treefrog complex impact neuroendocrine regulation. This is a highly collaborative project, and the postdoc will have extensive opportunities to work with co-PIs Chris Leary and Lainy Day at the University of Mississippi.

In collaboration with Balenger, the post doc will lead the assembly, annotation, and analysis of RNAseq derived datasets. The post doc will be expected to further integrate gene expression data with field collected hormonal phenotype data to connect regulatory and phenotypic changes following polyploidization events. Development of independent questions and projects utilizing samples and available datasets will be strongly encouraged.

The successful candidate will have the opportunity to be directly involved in field data collection from populations of frogs across the eastern United States, and to participate in broader impacts initiatives aimed at training high school, undergraduate, and graduate students in Mississippi. The post doc will be expected to present at scientific conferences and lead the preparation of manuscripts for publication in high-quality peer-reviewed journals.

Required Qualifications:
PhD in bioinformatics, evolution, neurobiology, genomics, endocrinology, or related fields
Demonstrated experience with the assembly and analysis of transcriptomic data
Ability to work independently
Demonstrated experience with peer-reviewed publishing

Preferred Qualifications:
Experience working with both long and short read RNAseq datasets
Experience with extraction of RNA from tissue samples
Strong writing skills

Applicants should email the following to Susan Balenger (sbalenge@umn.edu) with header: Polyploid Postdoc. Review of applications will begin on January 31st until the position is filled.
1. Cover Letter,
2. CV with names and contact information of three references, and
3. 1-page statement of research interests.