Postdoctoral Research Associate in the Department of Biological Sciences, University of Southern California

A postdoctoral position is available in the Campbell laboratory in the Department of Biological Sciences at the University of Southern California. The Campbell lab is a highly collaborative environment, and we welcome scientists from all backgrounds. Our research combines field-based, experimental, and computational approaches to tackle fundamental questions in human genomics and evolution. In particular, we are interested in the past migration and admixture of modern humans in the Arabian Peninsula (AP) and Africa. Furthermore, we seek to identify variants that contribute to the development of normal variable traits (e.g., lactase persistence and skin pigmentation, as well as related phenotypes) and complex diseases (e.g., kidney and breast cancers). We also work with top-notch collaborators to investigate the dynamics of the gut microbiome in urban and rural populations in the AP. The successful applicant will contribute to the completion of these ongoing studies and will be encouraged to explore other projects that broadly fit within the lab’s research interests and current funding.

Responsibilities:

The postdoctoral scholar is expected to perform analysis of large-scale genomic/phenotypic data from diverse human populations and collaborate with other scientists in the United States and abroad. Furthermore, this individual will lead multiple projects, work in a multidisciplinary environment and present/publish results in scientific conferences/journals. The postdoctoral scholar will also mentor graduate and/or undergraduate students in the lab.

Qualifications:

The ideal candidate will have a Ph.D. in Population Genetics, Bioinformatics, Computational Biology, Biostatistics, Biological Anthropology, or in a related discipline. Proficiency in one or more programming languages (e.g., Python, Perl, R, etc.) and in cluster computing is essential. Prior experience with analyzing genotyping and next-generation sequencing data is also required.

Salary and duration:

The position is renewable annually for a maximum of three years contingent upon satisfactory performance and continued funding. Salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience. The University of Southern California also offers competitive benefits that include medical, dental, and vision.

Interested applicants should submit: 1) a cover letter; 2) a complete CV detailing scientific experience, examples of technical skills, publications, presentations, etc.; 3) a one-page statement that includes research interests, experience with genomic data, and career aspirations; and 4) contact information for three references to mc44680@usc.edu with the advertised position and the applicant’s name in the subject line.

Applications will be reviewed until December 1st, 2021, and the position is expected to begin in the Spring 2022 semester. However, the specific start date is negotiable.

Informal inquiries about this position can be directed to the lab’s Principal Investigator, Dr. Michael C. Campbell, at mc44680@usc.edu