Position Overview
A postdoctoral researcher position is available in the Macdonald lab in the Department of Molecular Biosciences at the University of Kansas.

We use a range of genetic, genomic and molecular technologies to dissect the genetic basis of complex phenotypic variation using Drosophila as a model system. Ongoing projects include: exploring novel powerful methods for QTL mapping using the Drosophila Synthetic Population Resource (DSPR), uncovering loci impacting lifespan variation, genetic dissection of heavy metal resistance, and examining the genetic basis of regulatory variation over time, focusing on the response to infection. The breadth of the projects, and depth of the data we are collecting, allows for a range of questions to be addressed, providing the opportunity for the successful candidate to generate new skills and expertise, and position themselves as an independent investigator. The position is funded through NIH funds and has an anticipated start date of June 2, 2025 (although this is very flexible and can be moved earlier/later).

Job Description
50% - Carry out primary research to understand the genetic basis of complex trait variation in Drosophila. A range of projects are possible using an array of approaches, from those that are heavily focused on the quantitative genetics of trait variation (e.g., identifying QTL for various traits of interest), to those that focus on genomics approaches that are more computational in scope (e.g., analyses of RNAseq-based eQTL mapping).

20% - Present research results in scientific journals and at conferences/symposia.

15% - Work with other members of the research group to develop and execute collaborative projects.

10% - Help mentor and train junior researchers (graduate students, undergraduates).

5% - Pursue non-research professional development activities to advance your career goals.
Required Qualifications

1. A PhD in evolution, genetics, genomics, or a related field.
2. A first-author publication/preprint that shows your ability to initiate and execute a research project.
3. Experience with molecular/population/quantitative genetics, as evidenced by application materials and/or publications.
4. Some experience with coding/scripting (e.g., R, Python) as evidenced by application materials.

NOTE: To be appointed at the Postdoctoral Researcher title, it is necessary to have the PhD in hand. Appointments made without a diploma or certified transcript indicating an earned doctorate are conditional hires and are appointed on an acting basis not to exceed 6-months.

Preferred Qualifications

1. Prior experience with Drosophila as an experimental system as evidenced by application materials.
2. Experience working with genomic datasets resulting from next-generation sequencing applications (e.g., whole genome sequencing, RNAseq) as evidenced by application materials
3. Experience working with undergraduates or other researchers in a team setting as evidenced by application materials.

Contact Information to Applicants
Stuart Macdonald
sjmac@ku.edu
(785) 864-5362

Additional Candidate Instruction
In addition to the online application, the following documents are required to be considered for this position:

• Cover letter outlining relevant experience, expertise and interest in the position.
• CV/Resume
• Contact information for three (3) professional references (phone/email)

Informal queries about the position are welcome, and can be directed to Stuart Macdonald (sjmac@ku.edu).

Review of applications will begin on Monday, April 14, 2025 and will continue until the position is filled.


Advertised Salary Range
$58,656 - $64,634
Application Review Begins
14-Apr-2025
Anticipated Start Date
02-Jun-2025
Primary Campus
University of Kansas Lawrence Campus
FTE
1.0
Reg/Temp
Regular
FLSA Status
Professional
Employee Class
U-Unclassified Professional Staff
Work Location Assignment
On-Site
Disclaimer
The University of Kansas prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, ethnicity, religion, sex, national origin, age, ancestry, disability, status as a veteran, sexual orientation, marital status, parental status, gender identity, gender expression, and genetic information in the university's programs and activities. Retaliation is also prohibited by university policy. The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding the nondiscrimination policies and is the Title IX coordinator for all KU and KUMC campuses: Associate Vice Chancellor for Civil Rights and Title IX, civilrights@ku.edu, Room 1082, Dole Human Development Center, 1000 Sunnyside Avenue, Lawrence, KS 66045, 785-864-6414, 711 TTY.