Description of Work
The Department of Food Science and Technology at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL) Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources (IANR) is seeking applications for a highly motivated and enthusiastic post-doctoral research associate. This 12-month (calendar year), postdoc researcher appointment will work on genome sequencing projects funded by USDA, NSF, and JGI. The apportionment is 100% research. This position will be located in Lincoln, Nebraska.

The successful applicant will work on genome sequencing projects funded by USDA, NSF, and JGI and should be an expert in plant comparative genomics, phylogenetics, and DNA sequencing data analysis. These genome projects are collaborating with research groups in USDA and in Europe.

Recognizing that diversity enhances creativity, innovation, impact, and a sense of belonging, the Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources (IANR) and the Department of Food Science and Technology are committed to creating learning, research, Extension programming, and work environments that are inclusive of all forms of diversity. Consistent with the University’s N2025 Strategic Plan, we see every person and every interaction as important to our collective well-being and our ability to deliver on our mission.

This position will be working in the Evolutionary Genomics and Bioinformatics lab (http://bcb.unl.edu/) at UNL to work on plant/microbial genomics projects. The lab is affiliated with the Department of Food Science and Technology (FDST) and Nebraska Food for Health Center (NFHC). We have ongoing genome sequencing projects funded by USDA, NSF, and JGI and need an expert in plant comparative genomics, phylogenetics, and DNA sequencing data analysis. The lab is also funded by NIH to develop bioinformatics tools for genomic data mining in microbiome. The postdoc researcher will have opportunities to work with collaborators and have choice to participate in different projects depending on their interests. The lab also encourages members to explore/develop their own research projects within the broad Evolutionary Genomics and Bioinformatics research domain.

As an EO/AA employer, the University of Nebraska considers qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, ethnicity, national origin, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, and/or political affiliation. See https://www.unl.edu/equity/notice-nondiscrimination.
Minimum Required Qualifications
PhD in bioinformatics, genomics, evolutionary biology, plant genetics or other related fields.
Expertise/experience in plant/microbial genome data and gene family analysis using phylogenies.
Published first-authored research papers in reputed journals.
Proficiency with programming in Python/Perl and R and UNIX.
Preferred Qualifications
Experience in machine learning and software development.