Postdoctoral Fellow in Insect Genomics - Manaaki Whenua

We are seeking an enthusiastic and driven Postdoctoral Fellow to join a research project investigating the genomics of successful asexual reproduction in stick insects.

About the opportunity

Theory predicts that asexual species should rapidly go extinct, yet they are ubiquitous in nature and sometimes long-lived. Previous research looking for signs of 'genomic meltdown' in asexual species has found little evidence of this occurring. We hypothesize that asexual species have used a suite of strategies to adapt their genomes to the challenges of asexual reproduction. Applying comparative genomic methods to New Zealand asexual and sexual stick insects, we hope to reveal what these adaptations are and how they have evolved. Our research will address key questions on the evolution of different reproductive strategies.

This project will include the collection and analysis of genomic data to test our key hypotheses. This will include whole genomes, resequencing, transcriptomic and epigenomic data. The assembly of multiple, high-quality genomes will be an important first step in the project. These genomes will then be used to investigate the activity of transposable elements in sexual and asexual lineages, in conjunction with mRNA and microRNA sequencing. Epigenomic methods will be used to examine regulation of gene expression.

The Postdoctoral Fellow will be responsible for participating in the design of experiments to achieve the goals of the project. These responsibilities will also include sample management, DNA and RNA extraction and arranging sequencing. Data management and the implementation of bioinformatics pipelines will be important component of the position. The Postdoctoral Fellow will be expected to lead the writing of scientific publications and present findings at conferences. Regular communication and collaboration with the two project Associate Investigators (Julie Blommaert and Palacios-Gimenez) is expected. The project includes funding to travel to Friedrich-Schiller-Universtität, Jena, Germany, to collaborate with Prof Palacios-Gimenez. The successful applicant will also be expected to co-supervise a PhD student, involved in other aspects of the project.

This position is full time (37.5 hours per week) for fixed term for three years and is based at our Auckland site. Project funding is from the Royal Society of New Zealand Marsden Fund.

The starting remuneration would be between $80,000 to $90,000 per annum depending on relevant experience.

About you

You will possess a PhD in genomics, molecular biology or bioinformatics, at least some refereed publications, inclusive of lead authorship. Ideally you will be a flexible, pragmatic, self-starter, capable and enthusiastic to manage the collection and analysis of data to achieve project goals.

Why Manaaki Whenua

Our land, our future - this is the essence of why Manaaki Whenua - Landcare Research exists. At Manaaki Whenua we undertake research that focuses on preserving New Zealand's rich biodiversity, improving biosecurity, and protecting the health of the land, fresh water and soil resources we need for a prosperous future. We recognise the importance of partnerships, the special role of Māori, and the need to ensure that all New Zealanders have the knowledge, understanding, and tools to truly live in harmony with our precious environment. We are recognised nationally and internationally for the quality of our research and work with a wide range of organisations within New Zealand and globally.

Manaaki Whenua embraces diversity and is committed to an inclusive and respectful workplace where everyone is valued for their unique contribution. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of colour, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, or age.

What we offer

As an employee of Manaaki Whenua - Landcare Research, you will work with passionate and talented people in a caring and family friendly environment; enjoy good staff benefits and the opportunity for personal growth and career development. 

How to apply

Enquiries about the position may be directed to Thomas Buckley, [email protected] . For further details about Manaaki Whenua-Landcare Research, watch this short clip: Manaaki Whenua and visit our website: www.landcareresearch.co.nz

Apply online by viewing the position description and then clicking the 'Apply Now' button below.

Applications close on Friday 2 September 2022 at 5pm NZT