Postdoctoral Associate in Evolutionary Genomics and Conservation Genetics

Location: Stony Brook, NY, USA
Duration: 2 years initial
Salary: $61,000-$65,000 (based on experience)
Target Start Date: flexible, as soon as September 2026

A two-year postdoctoral position is available in the laboratory of Dr. Sheila Kitchen (https://www.sheilakitchen.com/) in the Department of Ecology and Evolution at the Stony Brook University. We seek a postdoctoral candidate at the intersection of molecular ecology, evolutionary genomics, and bioinformatics. The successful candidate will split their time between two core research areas: (1) investigating the evolutionary genomics and symbiosis dynamics of cnidarians, and (2) managing the deployment and development of STAGdb (Standard Tools for Acroporid Genotyping Database). The candidate will also be encouraged to develop and pursue their own areas of research interest. The candidate will conduct original research, write manuscripts for publication, participate in professional meetings, and collaborate with faculty and graduate students at Stony Brook University and the Marine Conservation Group led by Dr. Iliana Baums at the Helmholtz Institute for Functional Marine Biodiversity (https://baumslab.org/).

Applicants must hold a Ph.D. in marine biology, genomics, computational biology, evolutionary biology, or a closely related field. They should possess a strong track record of research productivity as evidenced by peer-reviewed publications, alongside proficiency in R and at least one scripting language such as Python. Additionally, a proven record of managing and analyzing large-scale genomics or population genetics datasets is required. The ideal candidate will demonstrate both the ability and the willingness to work independently as well as collaboratively, and they must be comfortable working in both laboratory and field environments. Finally, excellent written and oral English communication skills are essential for this role.

Additionally, applicants with a strong background in evolutionary genetics/genomics, specifically using genomic approaches to analyze introgression, clonal diversity, and/or host-symbiont associations. Experience developing, scaling, or maintaining workflows within the Galaxy platform or similar bioinformatics workflow management systems is highly desirable. It is also beneficial to have experience querying and managing relational databases, including handling SQL queries and database syncing routines will be valuable to these projects. Lastly, familiarity with the biological challenges of cnidarian-algal symbioses such as co-analyzing host and symbiont data is considered an asset but not required.
How to Apply: https://stonybrooku.taleo.net/careersection/2/jobdetail.ftl?job=2602622
First review date: 27 August 2026
Include 1) a cover letter (2-pg max) that includes your research experience and interests, future research and career goals and your preferred start date, 2) names and contact information of three references, including your current supervisor, and 3) a CV. Applications will be reviewed until the position is filled.  Position can begin as early as September 1, 2026, and no later than January 1, 2027. Salary commensurate with the NIH postdoctoral scale with a benefits package. This is a two-year appointment with the potential for extension, contingent upon satisfactory performance.

Inquiries about the job can be made by email to sheila.kitchen@stonybrook.edu

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