Research

The postdoc will work on developing methods to better integrate fossils with molecular data for estimating dated phylogenetic trees using the software RevBayes. This individual will also work in R to develop workflows for model selection and model fitting in complex, hierarchical models. The postdoc will also be encouraged to develop questions of their own related to fossils and phylogeny.

Teaching

For teaching, the postdoc will teach 1-2 sections of introductory biology with an integrated R computational component.
This is part of a project assessing if code-to-learn techniques can be used to introduce computational thinking to biology without sacrificing biology domain knowledge. Southeastern is a very diverse institution; members of underrepresented groups are strongly encouraged to apply.

Setting

The Wright lab at Southeastern Louisiana University is broadly interested in fossils and phylogeny. As a member of a lab at a primarily undergraduate institution, the postdoc will have many opportunities to supervise and mentor undergraduate students.
They will also be offered desk space at nearby Louisiana State University (Dr. Jeremy Brown‘s lab) to foster development of local community with other postdocs.

Qualifications

• Strong skills with R or Python.
• Familiarity with RevBayes preferred.
• Willingness to develop competency with C++
• PhD in biology, computational biology, bioinformatics, geology or similar.
• Demonstrated track record (publications) in phylogenetics.

Logistics

• Pay is NSF scale (42,000)
• Funding is available for up to three years.
• Start date: Aug 1, 2022.
• Possibility to be remote for Summer/Fall 2022.
• Questions? Email April at april <dot> wright (at) selu <dot> edu

Apply

• Send a CV, statement of interest, and unofficial transcripts to april <dot> wright (at) selu <dot> edu
• In your statement of interest, please address how both the research and teaching mission of this postdoc will help you develop as a scholar and achieve your goals
• Review of applications will begin March 11