Postdoctoral Research Associate: Avian Transcriptomics and Conservation (2-Year Position)

We are hiring a 2-year Postdoctoral Research Associate to investigate the sub-lethal effects of rodenticide exposure in wild owls using transcriptomic approaches. This work is part of a collaborative project funded through the California Department of Fish and Wildlife’s Cannabis Restoration Grant in partnership with the Hoopa Valley Tribe. The project involves leading an RNA-seq study designed to identify genome-wide changes in gene expression associated with rodenticide exposure in invasive barred owls (Strix varia) in California. Using multiple tissue types collected from individuals previously screened for 14 rodenticides, this project offers a unique opportunity to link contaminant exposure with molecular responses in forest predators. Results will contribute to our understanding of how environmental toxicants affect wildlife health while informing conservation and management efforts.  Additional genomics-based projects of mutual interest can be developed. Because barred owls are an invasive species in the Pacific Northwest and California, this work is situated within a broader management context that includes lethal removal. Applicants should be aware of and comfortable working within this applied conservation framework. 

Responsibilities: RNA extractions and RNA-Seq library preparation; generate and analyze transcriptomics data; perform population and landscape genomic analyses to address project objectives; lead preparation of at least two peer-reviewed manuscripts

Required: Ph.D. in ecology, evolutionary biology, genetics, genomics, wildlife biology, or a related field; experience with molecular laboratory techniques and transcriptomics data analysis; strong scientific writing skills and history of publishing impactful peer-reviewed papers in ecology, evolutionary, or conservation journals; willingness to work with samples derived from invasive species removal.Preferred: Experience with next-generation sequencing (NGS) library preparation; familiarity with Linux and high-performance computing environments; experience creating reference transcriptomes; background in conservation genomics or molecular ecology

Research Environment: The postdoctoral researcher will work directly with Dr. Emily Fountain in a collaborative genomics lab that emphasizes shared learning, mentorship, and teamwork. The selected applicant will also work under supervision and in collaboration with Dr. Zach Peery. This position involves engaging with the Peery Lab through meetings and group activities, with opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration and community-building. 

This project is conducted in partnership with the Hoopa Valley Tribe, and we welcome applicants interested in research at the intersection of genomics, conservation, and Tribal natural resource priorities. We value diverse perspectives, interdisciplinary experiences, and community-engaged approaches to science.

Position Details:
This is a full-time, 2-year position, with the potential to extend pending additional funding. This position will be based full-time, on site, at the University of Wisconsin Madison. Salary: $70,000 + benefits. Earliest start date is anticipated to be 20 July 2026.