"Postdoctoral Research Associate"

Position: Postdoctoral Research Associate

Department: Ecology and Evolutionary Biology

The Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology at Princeton University has a postdoctoral research position available in the area of phylogenomics to work with Professor Tiago Simes. The Simês lab is broadly interested in phylogenetic methods and applications, using morphological and genomic data for reconstructing evolutionary patterns and processes that have shaped biological history across deep timescales. The ideal candidate will have a background in phylogenomics and bioinformatics of squamate reptiles; the largest group of terrestrial vertebrates on Earth today with 11,000 species. A Ph.D. in Evolutionary Biology, Computational Biology, or related fields, is required. The work will focus on i) phylogenomic inference of hundreds of whole genomic data already available; and ii) investigating rates of evolution across the genome and their correlation with phenotypic traits across various subdivisions of the squamate body plan. The candidate will work towards developing computational resources that assist in the data management and analysis of genomic data and its integration with phenotypic data. Major project goals will include: inferring the most comprehensive squamate evolutionary tree to date; its integration with fossil data to produce accurate divergence time estimation for all major groups of squamates; using the previously generated data for downstream analyses of genomic and phenotypic rates of evolution, and the genomic basis of major phenotypic innovations across squamate body plans.

Required Qualifications:

• Ph.D. degree in evolutionary biology, ecology, zoology, paleobiology or a related field.
• Excellent writing ability in English.
• Creativity and the desire to work in an interactive and inter-disciplinary environment.
• A solid track record of scientific publications and conference presentations.
• Capacity to work independently and in collaboration with team members.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Familiarity with both phenome and genome-scale datasets, as well as proved expertise in their curation and analysis using state-of-the-art phylogenetics implementing phylodynamic models.
• Strong computational skills and programming experience (e.g., R or other languages)

This one-year appointment is expected to be renewed for a second year based on satisfactory performance and continued funding. Research staff are entitled to university benefits. This position is subject to the University's background check policy. The work location for this position is in-person on campus at Princeton University.

Applicants must apply online at: https://www.princeton.edu/acad-positions/position/39062 and submit:

1. Cover letter outlining your research interests and suitability for the position (1 page)
2. Curriculum vitae including a complete list of publications
3. Up to three examples of published papers
4. Names and contact information of 3 academic references

Applications will be reviewed starting 01 August 2025. Expected start date is January 2026. For further information about the position, please contact: simoes@princeton.edu.

Expected Salary Range: $65,000 - $70,832 dependent on years of post-Ph.D. experience

The University considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's qualifications, work experience, education/training, key skills, market, collective bargaining agreements as applicable, and organizational considerations when extending an offer. The posted salary range represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate for a full-time position; salaries for part-time positions are pro-rated accordingly.

The University also offers a comprehensive benefit program to eligible employees. Please see this link for more information.