Postdoctoral Research Associate, Conservation Genomics, University of Wisconsin-Madison

Position Overview

Application Deadline: June 30, 2026 (priority review by May 18, 2026)

Salary: $70,000 annually plus benefits

Education Required: Doctorate

Description

The University of Wisconsin-Madison is hiring a 2-year Postdoctoral Research Associate in conservation genomics, based on the UW-Madison campus, with annual salary of $70,000 and an application deadline of June 30, 2026 (priority review by May 18, 2026).

This collaborative project, funded through the California Department of Fish and Wildlife Cannabis Restoration Grant in partnership with the Hoopa Valley Tribe, investigates the ecological and evolutionary mechanisms underlying individual dispersal and population range expansion of invasive barred owls (Strix varia) in California. The work integrates existing and newly generated SNP data via Oxford Nanopore sequencing to map movement pathways and environmental drivers of dispersal.

The postdoctoral researcher works directly with Dr. Emily Fountain in a collaborative genomics lab grounded in shared learning, mentorship, and teamwork, with supervision and collaboration from Dr. Zach Peery and engagement with the Peery Lab through meetings and group activities. The role intersects genomics, conservation, and Tribal natural resource priorities, situated within an applied management framework that includes lethal removal of barred owls.

Responsibilities

• Conduct Oxford Nanopore library preparation and sequencing.
• Generate and analyze genomic data, including SNP and whole-genome datasets.
• Perform population and landscape genomic analyses to address project objectives.
• Lead preparation of at least two peer-reviewed manuscripts.
• Engage with the Peery Lab through meetings, group activities, and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in ecology, evolutionary biology, genetics, genomics, wildlife biology, or a related field.
• Experience with molecular laboratory techniques and genomics data analysis.
• Strong scientific writing skills and history of publishing impactful peer-reviewed papers in ecology, evolutionary, or conservation journals.
• Willingness to work with samples derived from invasive species removal.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with next-generation sequencing (NGS) library preparation.
• Familiarity with Linux and high-performance computing environments.
• Experience analyzing SNP and whole-genome datasets.
• Background in conservation genomics or molecular ecology.

Additional Notes

• Full-time, 2-year position, with potential to extend pending additional funding.
• On-site at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.
• Earliest anticipated start date: June 15, 2026.
• Conducted in partnership with the Hoopa Valley Tribe; the project welcomes applicants interested in research at the intersection of genomics, conservation, and Tribal natural resource priorities.

How to Apply

Email application materials to Dr. Emily Fountain. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis; priority will be given to applications received by May 18, 2026.

Required application materials:

• Current resume or CV.
• Cover letter briefly describing qualifications relevant to the position.
• Three professional references.

Direct questions to Dr. Emily Fountain at efountain@wisc.edu.