The Majure and Cellinese labs at the Florida Museum of Natural History, University of Florida, are seeking a postdoctoral associate (2 years) to study the phylogenomics, biogeography and morphological evolution of the pantropical clade Melastomataceae. This NSF-funded project is a collaboration with Fabian Michelangeli at the New York Botanical Garden. The project aims to understand the systematics and evolution of at least 3000 taxa in this clade.

Selection criteria:

• Ph.D. in molecular evolution, systematics, evolution, bioinformatics, genomics, or a related field.
• Research experience in molecular systematics, evolution, biogeography, particularly using next-generation sequencing data. Therefore, familiarity in bioinformatics and with relevant software packages for phylogenetic and post-tree analyses is required.
• Prior experience with herbarium methodology highly preferred
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• A strong interest in tropical plant systematics and biogeography is advantageous.

Responsibilities:

• Collection and organization of samples
• DNA extractions and data analyses of hyb-seq datasets
• Maintenance of laboratory equipment and supplies pertinent to the project
• Coordination with all project members, including students, and domestic and foreign collaborators
• Mentoring graduate and undergraduate students
• Presentation of research results at relevant professional meetings and publications

This position is available from February 2023 or as soon as the successful candidate is able to start.

How to apply: To apply please submit a letter of interest and CV, together with the names and contact information of three academic references to Dr. Lucas C. Majure (lmajure[at]floridamuseum.ufl.edu) and Dr. Nico Cellinese (ncellinese[at]flmnh.ufl.edu).

The position will remain open until filled. The University of Florida is an Equal Opportunity Employer.