Postdoc in computational genomics to study the evolutionary history of human and domesticated populations.

The Witt Lab in the Department of Genetics and Biochemistry at Clemson University is seeking a postdoctoral fellow to assist with ongoing population genomics projects in the lab. These projects involve analysis of low-coverage genomic data from ancient domesticated populations or the analysis of published human genome data for a variety of projects, including examining selection over time in ancient populations and archaic ancestry in modern humans (both genome-wide and focused on a specific gene).

Successful candidates will be expected to analyze genomic data, prepare and collaborate on manuscripts, mentor graduate and undergraduate students, and assist with grant preparation. There will also be opportunities for postdocs to develop their own research projects and apply for grants.

This position comes with a salary following NIH pay scales, university benefits, and funding for research/conference travel. The position is funded for two years, with annual renewal, and a possibility of continuing the position pending funding availability. The expected start date is flexible but can be as soon as January 2024.

About the Witt Lab: Our lab uses computational genetics and population genomics techniques to understand how past demographic events like selection and gene flow impact the genomes of modern populations, especially archaic and modern humans and domesticated animals. We have ongoing collaborations with multiple archaeologists, anthropologists, and computational geneticists, and have a broad interest in human evolution and population genetics. The Witt lab is affiliated with both the Department of Genetics and Biochemistry and the Center for Human Genetics and is located on Clemson’s main campus in Clemson, SC.

For more information about the lab, visit https://www.wittlabgenomics.com/

For more information about the department or School and its programs, please visit the websites for the Center for Human Genetics (https://scienceweb.clemson.edu/chg/) and the Department of Genetics and Biochemistry (https://www.clemson.edu/genbiochem). For more information about Clemson, please visit the website http://www.clemson.edu/.

Qualifications

Applicants should have a Ph.D. in genetics, evolutionary biology, or a related field with knowledge of population genetics. Applicants should have some experience with analyzing genomic data.

Preference will be given to individuals with experience using computational clusters for data analysis, experience with ancient DNA or large human genomic datasets, or experience programming in Python or R.

Strong candidates will be able to work independently, have effective oral and written communication skills, and be able to collaborate with and mentor both undergraduate and graduate students. Application Instructions

For full consideration, applications should be submitted by October 30, 2023. Review will continue until the position is filled.

Applicants should submit the following items via Interfolio:

(1) A cover letter describing relevant research experience and motivation, as well as interest for the current position (2) A curriculum vitae (3) A one-page research statement (4) Contact information (telephone number and email address) for three professional references