Positions & News
Postdoc: U. of Minnesota-Twin Cities behavioral ecology and genomics of mating preferences
Jobs & Postdocs
Posted Nov 8
Mingzi Xu (https://mingzixu.weebly.com) is seeking two post-doctoral associates to join the Xu lab in Department of Ecology, Evolution and Behavior at University of Minnesota-Twin Cities. The Xu lab conducts research to answer fundamental questions about sexual selection, evolution and genetics of behavior, and acoustic communication using crickets as a study system. We combine diverse research approaches including behavioral ecology, behavioral genetics, neurogenomics, bioacoustics and physiology, offering a rich context for lab members to learn.
Successful candidates will join projects that test hypotheses about selection on and neurogenomic mechanisms underlying (1) within species variation and (2) behavioral plasticity of song preference in the Hawaiian Laupala crickets. The postdocs will be involved in field collection and lab breeding of crickets, designing and conducting behavioral experiments, gene expression experiments, bioinformatics and data analysis. The postdocs are expected to present research at conferences and lead manuscript preparation for publication in high-quality peer-reviewed journals. Successful candidates, if interested in an academic career, are encouraged to ask new questions within the scope of the research in the lab that will help them develop their independent lines of research for future academic positions.
I welcome candidates with either behavioral ecology or behavioral genomics background who are keen to learn skills in the other area to apply. Candidates with qualifications in both areas will be given preference.
Both positions are expected to start in summer to early fall in 2024 and the exact start date is negotiable. Both positions are for two years, pending satisfactory review at the end of the first year. Continuation of the positions beyond two years depends on funding availability.
Required qualifications:
· Ph.D. degree in evolution or related fields or degree expected before the start date
· Demonstrated research experience in either behavioral ecology or behavioral genomics
· Strong writing skills and experience in peer-reviewed publication
· Demonstrated ability to work independently and strong communication skills
Preferred qualifications:
· Experience in both behavioral ecology and genomics
· Collaborative nature, ability to lead projects and work in teams
· Proficiency in data analysis using R or similar programs
· Demonstrated bioinformatic skills
· Manual dexterity to work with small, delicate insects and conduct micro-dissections
Applicants should submit the following through UMN application system https://hr.umn.edu/Jobs/Find-Job. Job ID: 358493.
1. A cover letter
2. CV
3. A research statement no more than 3 pages specifying:
· research interests
· past research experience and what you can bring to the project
· what you are looking for in the postdoc experience
· how this postdoc can help you with your future career
4. Name, email address, and phone number of three references
5. One representative publication (published papers and preprints are both acceptable)
Review of application begins on Nov 30th and will continue until the positions are filled.
Successful candidates will join projects that test hypotheses about selection on and neurogenomic mechanisms underlying (1) within species variation and (2) behavioral plasticity of song preference in the Hawaiian Laupala crickets. The postdocs will be involved in field collection and lab breeding of crickets, designing and conducting behavioral experiments, gene expression experiments, bioinformatics and data analysis. The postdocs are expected to present research at conferences and lead manuscript preparation for publication in high-quality peer-reviewed journals. Successful candidates, if interested in an academic career, are encouraged to ask new questions within the scope of the research in the lab that will help them develop their independent lines of research for future academic positions.
I welcome candidates with either behavioral ecology or behavioral genomics background who are keen to learn skills in the other area to apply. Candidates with qualifications in both areas will be given preference.
Both positions are expected to start in summer to early fall in 2024 and the exact start date is negotiable. Both positions are for two years, pending satisfactory review at the end of the first year. Continuation of the positions beyond two years depends on funding availability.
Required qualifications:
· Ph.D. degree in evolution or related fields or degree expected before the start date
· Demonstrated research experience in either behavioral ecology or behavioral genomics
· Strong writing skills and experience in peer-reviewed publication
· Demonstrated ability to work independently and strong communication skills
Preferred qualifications:
· Experience in both behavioral ecology and genomics
· Collaborative nature, ability to lead projects and work in teams
· Proficiency in data analysis using R or similar programs
· Demonstrated bioinformatic skills
· Manual dexterity to work with small, delicate insects and conduct micro-dissections
Applicants should submit the following through UMN application system https://hr.umn.edu/Jobs/Find-Job. Job ID: 358493.
1. A cover letter
2. CV
3. A research statement no more than 3 pages specifying:
· research interests
· past research experience and what you can bring to the project
· what you are looking for in the postdoc experience
· how this postdoc can help you with your future career
4. Name, email address, and phone number of three references
5. One representative publication (published papers and preprints are both acceptable)
Review of application begins on Nov 30th and will continue until the positions are filled.
