Pay Grade/Pay Range: Minimum: $48,600 - Midpoint: $60,800 (Salaried E7)
Department/Organization: 750501 - Alabama Water Institute (AWI)
Normal Work Schedule: Monday – Friday 8:00am to 5:00pm
Job Summary: The Postdoctoral Fellow provides for an internship and continuation of scholarly activity and research after achieving the PhD or other doctoral degree under the direction of a senior faculty member who serves as a mentor for the postdoctoral appointee.
Additional Department Summary: The Alabama Water Institute (AWI) is one of four University of Alabama research institutes. AWI serves as a catalyst for interdisciplinary collaboration across the University’s various colleges, uniting engineers, computer scientists, biologists, social scientists, economists, and more to tackle the pressing water challenges faced by Alabama and the world. AWI-affiliated researchers specialize in water security and quality, remote sensing, hydrologic and hydraulic modeling, and watershed management through synergies with AWI research programs, including the NOAA Cooperative Institute for Research to Operations in Hydrology, the Global Water Security Center, and the CONSERVE Research Group.
The CONSERVE Postdoctoral Fellow collaborates with a research team to develop a germplasm collection of genotype and phenotyped giant rivercane samples to be used in genome-informed restoration projects. Develops large-scale population sampling expeditions, genotyping of collected specimens using high throughput sequencing and associated lab work, analysis of large-scale genomics data, phenotypes of collected plant specimens in greenhouse experiments, integrates genotype and phenotype information to draw conclusions on local adaptation, and works with team and community partners to educate best practices for restoration efforts. Develops manuscripts for data generated in the projects and works with research team to submit for refereed journal publications.
Initial appointment will be for one year. Renewal will be contingent upon available of funds up to three years.
Required Department Minimum Qualifications: Ph.D. in plant biology, population genomics, evolutionary biology, or a closely related field.
Candidates should upload a brief cover letter, curriculum vitae, and include the names, email addresses, and phone numbers for three references.
Must have valid U.S. driver's license. Must be at least 19 years of age at time of hire and have an acceptable Motor Vehicle Report that is in compliance with University policies. Applicants under the age of 21 will have some driving restrictions.
Skills and Knowledge: Strong interest in (or be already skilled in) the development of large-scale genotyping projects and analysis of polyploid genomes across multiple populations and integration of phenotyping and environmental data. Knowledge and experience in one of the following: field work (US Southeast) and sample management, DNA isolation and high throughput sequencing library production, population genomics analysis, and working in a high-performance computer system. Experience with field-based plant identification and herbarium specimen production. Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team. Demonstrated record of publishing in peer-reviewed journals. Strong interpersonal skills to facilitate effective collaboration with academics, scientists, Tribal members, community stakeholders, and students. Exhibit outstanding capabilities in personal responsibility, taking initiative, problem solving, and communication proficiency.
Preferred Qualifications: Familiarity with some scripting languages (e.g. Python or Perl). Experience with translational science activities.
Background Investigation Statement: Prior to hiring, the final candidate(s) must successfully pass a pre-employment background investigation and information obtained from social media and other internet sources. A prior conviction reported as a result of the background investigation DOES NOT automatically disqualify a candidate from consideration for this position. A candidate with a prior conviction or negative behavioral red flags will receive an individualized review of the prior conviction or negative behavioral red flags before a hiring decision is made.
Equal Employment Opportunity: The University of Alabama is an Equal Employment/Equal Educational Opportunity Institution. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment or volunteer status without regard to any legally protected basis and will not be discriminated against because of their protected status. Applicants and employees of this institution are protected under Federal law from discrimination on several bases. More information is available in the EEOC’s Know Your Rights: Workplace discrimination is illegal poster.
