Scope of Job

The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) invites applications for a Postdoctoral Fellow in the laboratory of Dr. Erin E. Easton (Port Isabel, TX, https://eastonbenthos.org/), with a research focus on integrative systematics and/or phylogenomics of corals. The successful candidate will contribute to a vibrant, collaborative research environment and pursue independent and collaborative research as a vital component of professional development.

This position emphasizes the generation and analysis of phylogenomic datasets for corals, with particular focus on octocorals, and may also include black corals (Antipatharia). The postdoctoral fellow will work under general supervision, exercising initiative and independent judgment in research activities. Application review starting June 1 until filled.

Description of Duties

• Developing, testing, and analyzing research projects in integrative systematics and phylogenomics of corals.
• Obtaining, curating, and analyzing genomic or phylogenomic datasets (e.g., target capture, phylogenomics, comparative genomics).
• Writing narrative summaries of research results and preparing manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed journals.
• Conducting background research and literature synthesis relevant to coral evolution, biodiversity, and systematics.
• Co-leading the development, writing, and submission of at least two external grant proposals in collaboration with the supervising faculty member.
• Assisting with the mentoring and supervision of master's students, including guidance on research design, analyses, and writing.
• Developing and implementing evaluation or data management plans and preparing progress reports as needed.
• Supporting training activities within the lab and contributing to a collaborative research culture.
• Performing other job-related duties as assigned in support of the lab's research mission.