JOINING THE LAB AS A POSTDOC
OPEN POSITIONS
Plant-microbe postdoctoral position available for the 26/27 Academic year!
Opening soon! APPLY through https://talent.arizona.edu/ (direct link coming soon)
Review of applications will begin 16 June 2026
Position Highlights
A postdoctoral research position is available to work with our lab at the University of Arizona on the ecological genomics of evolution of the invasive plant yellow starthistle (Centaurea solstitialis). This project is studying the evolution of species interactions during range expansion and their impact on the spread of invading plant populations. We have found large differences in the microbial communities associated with yellow starthistle across its range, and evidence that microbial variation alters invader performance. This position will lead efforts to understand the genomic basis of these changes and their impacts on the ecology of invasion, with a primary focus on an experiment to map the genetic basis of microbiome variation in the host plant genome.
We are seeking a postdoctoral researcher with interests and experience in these areas. In addition, there will be opportunities for the postdoc to propose new research directions, and to be involved in the mentoring of students.
The successful candidate will join an active lab of undergraduates, graduate students, and postdocs, focused on the rapid evolution of plants in response to novel environments.
This is a one year appointment with opportunities to seek additional funding.
Duties & Responsibilities
The successful candidate will lead a large greenhouse genetic mapping experiment to map the plant genetic basis of plant associated microbial community variation. This will involve sterile culture of bacteria, greenhouse rearing of plants, plant genome re-sequencing, microbiome sequencing, bioinformatic analyses, and associated manuscript publication.
Minimum Qualifications
A doctorate in Biology or a related field upon hire.
Experience with microbial culturing.
Experience rearing plants in a greenhouse or growth chamber.
Preferred Qualifications
Experience with research on the evolution and ecology of invasive/weedy plant species.
Experience isolating DNA for sequencing.
Experience with bioinformatic analyses of genomic data.
Willingness and ability to work independently and in a team.
Authorship of peer-reviewed publications of original research in a field related to the position.
Strong writing skills.
Documents Needed to Apply
Cover Letter describing interest in and qualification for this position.
Curriculum Vitae (CV), including contact information for three references.
Apply at the link above
OTHER OPTIONS
I am always interested in collaborating with postdoctoral researchers whose interests align with the lab and whose careers will be enhanced by our work together. Email me (kdlugosch@arizona.edu) to discuss your postdoctoral plans and any potential upcoming grant-funded positions in the lab.
It is wonderful of course to secure your own source of funds, and I am happy to work together to propose fellowship projects that would fit into the scope of the lab. Some possible avenues:
National Institutes of Health (Ruth L. Kirschstein ‘F32’ Awards)
Or other national competitions if you are not a US Resident, e.g. NSERC for Canadians, Fulbright, etc.