Postdoctoral Research Associate, Fishman Lab, Plant Evolutionary Genomics, Centromere Drive Project
- University of Montana
- Missoula, Montana
- Full Time
Postdoctoral Research Associate, Fishman Lab, Plant Evolutionary Genomics, Centromere Drive Project
University of Montana
in Missoula, MT
Apply Now
Type: Full-Time
Salary: Salary: $65,000-70,000 per year
Posted: 06/16/2025
Category: Environmental Science, Ecology, and Forestry
Postdoctoral Research Associate, Fishman Lab, Plant Evolutionary Genomics, Centromere Drive Project
University of Montana
Location: Missoula, MT, United States
Open Date: Jun 13, 2025
Deadline:
Description
The Fishman Lab at the University of Montana is seeking a postdoctoral associate to join our NSF-funded research program in plant evolutionary genomics. This project focuses on mechanisms and consequences of centromere-mediated meiotic drive in yellow monkeyflowers. However, we are interested in gaining a colleague engaged with our diverse work on the genomic and evolutionary mechanisms that generate plant variation, using monkeyflowers as a model system.
The centromere drive project investigates the roles of satellite DNA, centromeric proteins, and linked genes in selfish chromosomal transmission through female meiosis. The postdoctoral associate's key responsibility will be analyses of satellite DNA evolution within and among functionally distinct centromeres, using new chromosome-scale genome assemblies of yellow monkeyflowers (Mimulus guttatus species complex). Monkeyflowers are a uniquely powerful system for investigating how selfish centromeres violate Mendelian segregation, but also for understanding chromosome/centromere evolution more broadly. Chromosome scale genome assemblies from >40 accessions across the genus, along with newly-optimized tools for genetic manipulation and a large collaborative community, provide a tremendous opportunity for exploring plant genome evolution in the context of adaptation and speciation. Therefore, we particularly encourage applicants interested in developing their own Mimulus research program at the interface of genetic conflict and genome evolution.
The postdoctoral associate's primary activities will include:
Generating and analyzing comparative genomic and epigenomic (e.g., Cut & Tag) datasets
helping train, mentor and supervise personnel, including graduate and undergraduate students
disseminating project results through publications (i.e., writing papers) and presentations
participating in outreach and training/teaching activities, including a bioinformatics CURE
As time allows, the postdoc would also be encouraged to participate in ongoing aspects (field work, genetic mapping, transcriptomics) of the centromere drive project, develop related research questions, and become involved with other collaborative projects on selfish evolution, adaptation, and/or speciation in monkeyflowers.
The postdoc will be co-mentored by Dr. Fishman (University of Montana, Missoula MT) and Dr. Findley Finseth (Scripps College, Claremont, CA). The postdoc may choose to be physically based in either location, with support for cross-institution travel. However, while periodic remote work is possible, the position is expected to be in-person in either California or Montana.
Position Details
Position is full-time, 1.0 FTE, Letter of Appointment and includes a comprehensive and competitive benefits package including insurance package, mandatory retirement plan, partial tuition waiver, and wellness program.
Salary: $65,000-70,000 per year (depending on prior experience).
Start date: flexible, but ideally between September and December 2025.
The initial appointment will be for one year, with 1-3 (depending on research activities relative to overall project goals) additional years possible pending satisfactory performance and funding.
Qualifications
Required Qualifications:
Candidates must have a Ph.D. in Ecology & Evolutionary Biology, Genetics, Genomics, Plant Biology, or a related discipline and experience generating and bioinformatically analyzing large (epi)genomic datasets.
Solid background in common statistical and bioinformatic methods used in plant genomics/transcriptomics and familiarity with plant morphology/anatomy.
Strong work ethic and excellent problem-solving, written communication, and time management skills.
A track record of independent research activity resulting in first-authored publications.
Evidence of a commitment to mentoring undergraduate students.
Preferred Qualifications:
Prior experience with the population genetics of conflict/selfish evolution, plant cytogenetics/epigenetics, and/or genomic analysis of repetitive DNA elements in any system would be particularly valuable. However, no prior experience with plants is required or expected.
Application Instructions
Screening of applications will begin after the closing date of July 31, 2025; however, applications will continue to be accepted until an adequate applicant pool has been established.
To apply, please upload the following materials:
Letter of Interest - addressing the stated required skills for the position
Detailed resume listing education and describing work experience
Three (3) professional references - Names and contact information
The University of Montana is interested in receiving applications from people who would assist the University in demonstrating its five priorities for action: Place student success at the center of all we do; drive excellence and innovation in teaching, learning, and research; embody the principle of "mission first, people always"; partner with place; and proudly tell the UM story.
For more information and to apply, visit
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
University of Montana (UM) is an equal opportunity employer. UM does not discriminate against any applicant on the basis of protected class status as described in UM's non-discrimination policy and any applicable law.
Reasonable accommodations are provided in the hiring process for persons with disabilities. For example, this material is available in alternative format upon request.
Qualified candidates may request veterans' or disabilities preference in accordance with state law.
Criminal Background Investigation is required prior to the offer of employment. In accordance with university regulations, finalists for this position will be subject to criminal background investigations.
References: References not listed on the application materials may be contacted; notice may be provided to the applicant. Testing: Individual hiring departments at UM may elect to administer pre-employment tests, which are relevant to essential job functions.
Employment Eligibility: All New Employees must be eligible and show employment eligibility verification by the first date of employment at UM, as legally required (e.g., Form I-9).
jeid-c6ed47b71133464da0c89a8f819dc494
Apply Now
University of Montana
in Missoula, MT
Apply Now
Type: Full-Time
Salary: Salary: $65,000-70,000 per year
Posted: 06/16/2025
Category: Environmental Science, Ecology, and Forestry
Postdoctoral Research Associate, Fishman Lab, Plant Evolutionary Genomics, Centromere Drive Project
University of Montana
Location: Missoula, MT, United States
Open Date: Jun 13, 2025
Deadline:
Description
The Fishman Lab at the University of Montana is seeking a postdoctoral associate to join our NSF-funded research program in plant evolutionary genomics. This project focuses on mechanisms and consequences of centromere-mediated meiotic drive in yellow monkeyflowers. However, we are interested in gaining a colleague engaged with our diverse work on the genomic and evolutionary mechanisms that generate plant variation, using monkeyflowers as a model system.
The centromere drive project investigates the roles of satellite DNA, centromeric proteins, and linked genes in selfish chromosomal transmission through female meiosis. The postdoctoral associate's key responsibility will be analyses of satellite DNA evolution within and among functionally distinct centromeres, using new chromosome-scale genome assemblies of yellow monkeyflowers (Mimulus guttatus species complex). Monkeyflowers are a uniquely powerful system for investigating how selfish centromeres violate Mendelian segregation, but also for understanding chromosome/centromere evolution more broadly. Chromosome scale genome assemblies from >40 accessions across the genus, along with newly-optimized tools for genetic manipulation and a large collaborative community, provide a tremendous opportunity for exploring plant genome evolution in the context of adaptation and speciation. Therefore, we particularly encourage applicants interested in developing their own Mimulus research program at the interface of genetic conflict and genome evolution.
The postdoctoral associate's primary activities will include:
Generating and analyzing comparative genomic and epigenomic (e.g., Cut & Tag) datasets
helping train, mentor and supervise personnel, including graduate and undergraduate students
disseminating project results through publications (i.e., writing papers) and presentations
participating in outreach and training/teaching activities, including a bioinformatics CURE
As time allows, the postdoc would also be encouraged to participate in ongoing aspects (field work, genetic mapping, transcriptomics) of the centromere drive project, develop related research questions, and become involved with other collaborative projects on selfish evolution, adaptation, and/or speciation in monkeyflowers.
The postdoc will be co-mentored by Dr. Fishman (University of Montana, Missoula MT) and Dr. Findley Finseth (Scripps College, Claremont, CA). The postdoc may choose to be physically based in either location, with support for cross-institution travel. However, while periodic remote work is possible, the position is expected to be in-person in either California or Montana.
Position Details
Position is full-time, 1.0 FTE, Letter of Appointment and includes a comprehensive and competitive benefits package including insurance package, mandatory retirement plan, partial tuition waiver, and wellness program.
Salary: $65,000-70,000 per year (depending on prior experience).
Start date: flexible, but ideally between September and December 2025.
The initial appointment will be for one year, with 1-3 (depending on research activities relative to overall project goals) additional years possible pending satisfactory performance and funding.
Qualifications
Required Qualifications:
Candidates must have a Ph.D. in Ecology & Evolutionary Biology, Genetics, Genomics, Plant Biology, or a related discipline and experience generating and bioinformatically analyzing large (epi)genomic datasets.
Solid background in common statistical and bioinformatic methods used in plant genomics/transcriptomics and familiarity with plant morphology/anatomy.
Strong work ethic and excellent problem-solving, written communication, and time management skills.
A track record of independent research activity resulting in first-authored publications.
Evidence of a commitment to mentoring undergraduate students.
Preferred Qualifications:
Prior experience with the population genetics of conflict/selfish evolution, plant cytogenetics/epigenetics, and/or genomic analysis of repetitive DNA elements in any system would be particularly valuable. However, no prior experience with plants is required or expected.
Application Instructions
Screening of applications will begin after the closing date of July 31, 2025; however, applications will continue to be accepted until an adequate applicant pool has been established.
To apply, please upload the following materials:
Letter of Interest - addressing the stated required skills for the position
Detailed resume listing education and describing work experience
Three (3) professional references - Names and contact information
The University of Montana is interested in receiving applications from people who would assist the University in demonstrating its five priorities for action: Place student success at the center of all we do; drive excellence and innovation in teaching, learning, and research; embody the principle of "mission first, people always"; partner with place; and proudly tell the UM story.
For more information and to apply, visit
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
University of Montana (UM) is an equal opportunity employer. UM does not discriminate against any applicant on the basis of protected class status as described in UM's non-discrimination policy and any applicable law.
Reasonable accommodations are provided in the hiring process for persons with disabilities. For example, this material is available in alternative format upon request.
Qualified candidates may request veterans' or disabilities preference in accordance with state law.
Criminal Background Investigation is required prior to the offer of employment. In accordance with university regulations, finalists for this position will be subject to criminal background investigations.
References: References not listed on the application materials may be contacted; notice may be provided to the applicant. Testing: Individual hiring departments at UM may elect to administer pre-employment tests, which are relevant to essential job functions.
Employment Eligibility: All New Employees must be eligible and show employment eligibility verification by the first date of employment at UM, as legally required (e.g., Form I-9).
jeid-c6ed47b71133464da0c89a8f819dc494
Apply Now
Job ID: 481720281
Originally Posted on: 6/18/2025
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