Author: Pinsky

The Global Change Biology research group (https://pinsky.marine.rutgers.edu/) in the Department of Ecology, Evolution, and Natural Resources is searching for an organized, enthusiastic, and skilled population genomics researcher. This position is half-time (19.5 hours per week). We use population genomics and data science to study global change biology, particularly in coastal marine environments. Collaborative projects address bats, bees, and wildlife biology research on land and in the ocean.

The researcher will coordinate the population genomics lab, manage research projects locally and nationally, maintain and promote open science practices, and assist with building a collaborative and supportive research environment for all members. Specific duties may include genomic sampling above and below water; building DNA and RNA libraries; developing and applying bioinformatic pipelines; performing population genomic and related analyses; performing other data science and statistical analyses; documenting work performed; maintaining databases; developing information and editorial input for research papers; and resolving a diverse range of problems with creativity. The successful candidate will manage operations of the lab and the procurement, operation, and maintenance of specialized equipment. The researcher will also teach, train, and supervise students on laboratory processes and equipment so that molecular ecology tools are available to researchers across the Department and the graduate program. The researcher will coordinate research; plan, establish, and refine protocols; prepare reports; manage grant funds; and act as a point of contact for both internal and external constituents. The researcher will complete work independently, with broadly defined work objectives and will be a key partner in maintaining a world-class research group.

We offer a collaborative, supportive, and interdisciplinary work environment, opportunities to be involved in a wide range of research projects, extensive opportunities for learning and professional development, and the expectation of co-authorship on scientific manuscripts. We value a healthy work-life balance and anti-racist practices.

Work environment will primarily be a molecular ecology lab and an office. Fieldwork will be infrequent but may be diverse, remote, physically challenging, or involve international travel. Sample collection could involve SCUBA diving or hiking. Work may require lifting 30 pounds.

We acknowledge that the land on which we stand is the ancestral territory of the Lenape People. We pay respect to Indigenous people throughout the Lenape diaspora—past, present, and future—and honor those that have been historically and systemically disenfranchised. We also acknowledge that Rutgers University, like New Jersey and the United States as a nation, was founded upon the exclusions and erasures of Indigenous peoples.

Benefits

This is a one-year, half-time position. Pay will be $25-$30 per hour (depending on experience) for 19.5 hours per week. Start date is flexible, but close to September 1, 2022 is preferred.

Knowledge and Experience

• A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in a related scientific specialty or discipline, or an equivalent combination of education and/or experience that demonstrates comprehensive knowledge and understanding of research principles and practices.
• Experience building population genomic libraries, developing bioinformatic pipelines, and conducting population genomics analyses is preferred but not required.
• Computer literacy in R and a commitment to open science practices.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Exceptional organizational skills and strong ability to accomplish tasks independently
• Scientific diving experience is preferred but not required.

Applications

To apply, please please send a cover letter that describes your interest in and qualifications for the position, a curriculum vitae, and the contact information for three references to Malin Pinsky (malin.pinsky@rutgers.edu). Please combine all components of the application into a single file, and include “Molecular Ecology Researcher” in the subject line. Review of applications will continue until the position is filled.

Please contact Malin Pinsky (malin.pinsky@rutgers.edu) with questions.

We are currently looking for someone interested in teaching Molecular Ecology & Population Genetics in spring 2022 (11:216:454 and 16:215:554). This is the course Malin has taught the last few years, and we have funds to pay a Part-Time Lecturer for 3 credits (about $5800). This is a wonderful change to gain teaching experience in a small class setting (capped at 25 students). The course is set up as a flipped classroom, so the lectures are already recorded and the in-class exercises are already developed. The course can be taught in person, online, or in hybrid formats.

Knowledge of population genetic theory, hands-on population genomic analyses through the command line, and basic bioinformatics would be needed to teach this effectively.

Please contact Malin (malin.pinsky@rutgers.edu) for more information.