********************GradStudentPositions******************** PhD - Rapid Evolution in Communities We invite prospective candidates for a four-year PhD Studentship funded by ERC grant of Jan Hrcek to explore exciting questions on the interface of population genetics and community ecology. It is increasingly clear that evolution can be rapid, with important traits changing within a few generations. But we are only beginning to understand the consequences of this eco-evolutionary process for dynamics of host - parasite interactions and stability of entire communities. We ask how rapid evolution impacts maintenance of diversity in communities and maintenance of genetic variation in populations - processes which have been mostly studied separately. To address these questions, our collaborative project uses a novel experimental community model system of wild Drosophila species and their parasitoids from tropical Australia. We are able to perform multigenerational laboratory microcosm experiments and track eco-evolutionary dynamics in fine detail. The candidate will use a combination of approaches: experimental community evolution, population genomics, and eco-evolutionary modelling. The specific PhD projects will result from a discussion between the candidate and the supervisor. The successful applicant will join the Laboratory of Experimental Ecology [ http://lab.hrcek.net ] at the Biology Centre, Czech Academy of Sciences, Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, under the supervision of Dr Jan Hrcek. The laboratory is a multinational team of postdocs, PhD students and technicians. The applicant will thus have the opportunity to work extensively with other team members. The laboratory obtained prestigious high-level funding (ERC Consolidator grant) and therefore can provide substantial resources and support for exceptional research. The laboratory is part of a dynamic international centre for research in species interactions. Together with the PhD student we will choose a co-supervisor from current international collaborators or start new collaborations. The position will include a research stay abroad. The deadline for applications is 7th May 2026 with interviews short after. The position can start from March 2026 onwards. Recently, guaranteed income for PhD students has become a law in the Czech Republic and the student will thus receive a salary which comfortably covers living expenses in the Czech Republic. The working language is English and applicants from all countries are eligible. A MSc degree is required to enter PhD in Czech Republic. Following experience is an advantage: · Research experience with laboratory experiments · Experience with population genetics or molecular ecology · Experience in eco-evolutionary dynamics or population genetic modelling To apply please send one document comprising a motivation letter, CV, and contact details for two references to Jan Hrcek [ janhrcek@gmail.com ]. Jan Hrcek (to subscribe/unsubscribe the EvolDir send mail to golding@mcmaster.ca) ********************PostDocs******************** The USDA Agricultural Research Service (ARS) Tropical Pest Genetics and Molecular Biology Research Unit (TPGMBRU) is seeking a POSTDOCTORAL RESEARCH ASSOCIATE to be stationed in Hilo, Hawaii for a TWO-YEAR APPOINTMENT Ph.D. is required. Starting salary is $75,640 per annum plus benefits. Citizenship restrictions apply. The incumbent will investigate the structure, function, and epigenetic control of genes on the X and Y chromosomes of fruit flies in the insect family Tephritidae which are major agricultural pests of specialty crops. Using full-length transcriptome sequencing and ATAC-Seq, the incumbent will explore chromosome-scale genome assemblies to evaluate changes in gene content on the X and Y chromosomes across taxa. The goal of this project is to better understand sex chromosome evolution in Tephritidae and apply knowledge of sex-specific gene function to pest management. The incumbent will be responsible for guided experimental design, data analysis, and manuscript preparation. To support the research and training of the postdoctoral research associate, the research unit has expertise in arthropod genomics and houses a multi-million-dollar genomics laboratory highlighted by a suite of high-throughput sequencing platforms (PacBio Revio, Oxford Nanopore Promethion, and Element Aviti) for which the researcher can gain hands on experience with library preparation and sequencing if desired. Additionally, high-performance compute infrastructure is available, including hardware focused on AI approaches which can be utilized by this project,including training and professional development opportunities in bioinformatics and data science and a large network of scientists and postdoctoral research fellows as your peers. The ideal candidate for this position will have: PhD in Biology, Evolution, Genetics, Entomology or related field with degree conferred at the time of hiring Demonstration of excellent written and oral communication Experience with population genomic analysis Comfort with high-throughput sequence data analysis Comfort with BASH, R, and command-line usage on an HPC environments Comfort with Python3, Git, and workflow management Experience in entomological systems This role is not remote. Projected start date is flexible and contingent on background clearance. Send application materials and references to Dr. Sheina Sim by e-mail (sheina.sim[at]usda.gov). USDA/ARS is an equal opportunity provider and employer. Sheina Sim Research Biologist U.S. Pacific Basin Agricultural Research Center Agricultural Research Service 64 Nowelo Street, Hilo, HI, 96720 p: (808) 932-2175 | c: (808) 896-0561 This electronic message contains information generated by the USDA solely for the intended recipients. Any unauthorized interception of this message or the use or disclosure of the information it contains may violate the law and subject the violator to civil or criminal penalties. If you believe you have received this message in error, please notify the sender and delete the email immediately. "Sim, Sheina - REE-ARS" (to subscribe/unsubscribe the EvolDir send mail to golding@mcmaster.ca) ********************PostDocs******************** Please apply directly on the RCUH website to be considered for the position. HCSU POSTDOCTORAL RESEARCH ANALYST (BIOINFORMATICS/BIOCONTROL GENOMIC TOOLS) – ID# 226172. CLOSING DATE: March 31, 2026, or until filled. Job postings are removed from the RCUH Job Openings site once the recruitment process has ended. INQUIRIES: Lori Bufil 808-932-7977 (Hawaiʻi). Regular, Full-Time, RCUH Non-Civil Service position with the Hawai’i Cooperative Studies Unit (HCSU) at the University of Hawai‘i at Hilo (UHH) in collaboration with the United States Geological Survey Pacific Island Ecosystems Research Center (USGS PIERC). Work location is in the USGS PIERC office in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park on the island of Hawai‘i. Continuation of employment is dependent upon program/operational needs, satisfactory work performance, availability of funds, and compliance with applicable Federal/State laws. MONTHLY SALARY RANGE: $5,833 - $6,250/Mon. DUTIES: Contributes to genomic-based research efforts to advance biocontrol tools for landscape-scale suppression or eradication of invasive species, and analyzes population genomic datasets applicable to conservation of native species in the Pacific Basin. Applies bioinformatics techniques to model population demographics, characterize gene expression datasets (RNA-seq), perform gene annotations, and evaluate genomic features. Assists in the development of datasets to inform biocontrol efforts that might be enacted in the future, including synthetic biology approaches for invasive species or disease control. Coordinates with state, federal, and/or international agencies and researchers to collect additional specimens, and processes tissue samples in the lab (dissection, DNA extraction, next-generation library preparation, sequencing, and analysis). Carefully documents analysis, computational pipelines, and performs data management and database archiving. Reviews relevant literature and works with the research team leads and collaborators. Authors or co-authors scientific manuscripts related to the development of landscape-scale biocontrol tools for invasive species, conservation genomics of native species, and related topics. Assists with preparing all research products for the United States Geological Survey (USGS) policy and quality reviews, such as Fundamental Science Practices (FSP). Edits and formats scientific manuscripts. Produces project summaries and data visualizations to routinely communicate progress to research team members, and prepares reports and project summaries for internal or general distribution at scientific meetings, workshops, and presentations, including outreach products for different audiences. PRIMARY QUALIFICATIONS: EDUCATION PhD from an accredited college or university in Bioinformatics/Genomics, Ecology, Biology, Zoology, Fisheries/Wildlife, or other related field. EXPERIENCE One to three (1-3) years of experience working or conducting research in the field of genomics, bioinformatics, and applied statistics or data analysis. Includes experience with study design, scientific writing, and publishing peer-reviewed scientific papers. KNOWLEDGE Must have proficiency in molecular biology, high-performance computing, and commonly used bioinformatic programs for analysis of high throughput sequencing data. Must have familiarity with population genomics analysis pipelines and ability to perform statistical analysis. ABILITIES & SKILLS Must possess strong bioinformatics, molecular biology, data management, and quantitative analytical skills. Ability to prepare written reports of study results and analyses with good grammar and proficiency. Ability to evaluate and analyze existing techniques and procedures. Demonstrated excelled oral and written communication skills. Ability to work independently to manage, analyze, and interpret written reports and data. High degree of attention to detail, high level of organization, and problem-solving skills. Ability to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team. Post Offer/Employment Condition: Must be able to complete the UH Title IX training within 30 days from date of hire, and re-certify annually. Must be able to complete the Workplace Violence Prevention training within 30 days from date of hire, and re-certify annually. Must be able to complete the UH Information Security Awareness Training (ISAT) within two (2) weeks from date of hire, and re-certify every twelve (12) months. POLICY/REGULATORY REQUIREMENT As a condition of employment, employee will be subject to all applicable RCUH policies, procedures, and trainings and, as applicable, subject to University of Hawai‘i's and/or business entity's policies, procedures, and trainings. Violation of RCUH's, UH's, or business entity's policies and/or procedures or applicable State or Federal laws and/or regulations may lead to disciplinary action (including, but not limited to possible termination of employment, personal fines, civil and/or criminal penalties, etc.). SECONDARY QUALIFICATIONS: Experience with biocontrol (genetic or classical) strategies, impacts of inversions on gene expression, Diptera genomics, gene editing techniques, population demographic analysis. Experience in the use of statistical models for the analysis of management decisions or adaptive management. Familiarity with wildlife of the Pacific basin and conservation issues related to invasive species. Familiarity with historical land use in Hawai‘i, present-day restoration projects, and conservation issues centered around native Hawaiian forests and watersheds. APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS: Please go toRCUH - Job Openings(www.rcuh.com/opportunities/job-openings/). You must submit the following documents online to be considered for the position: 1) Cover Letter, 2) Resume, 3) List of Professional References, 4) Copy of Degree(s)/Unofficial or Official Transcript(s)/Certificate(s). All online applications must be submitted/received by the closing date (11:59 P.M. Hawai‘i Standard Time/RCUH receipt time) as stated on the job posting. If you do not have access to our system and the closing date is imminent, please send additional documents to rcuh_recruitment@rcuh.com. If you have questions on the application process and/or need assistance, please call (808)956-7262 or (808)956-0872. Please visit https://www.rcuh.com/policies-forms-documents/benefits-at-a-glance.pdf for more information on RCUH’s Benefits for eligible employees. RCUH’s mission is to support and enhance research, development and training in Hawai‘i, with a focus on the University of Hawai‘i. RCUH is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, marital status, reproductive health decision, citizenship, gender identity or expression, domestic or sexual violence victim status, military/veteran status, or other grounds protected under applicable federal and state laws, except as permitted by law. "M. Renee Bellinger" (to subscribe/unsubscribe the EvolDir send mail to golding@mcmaster.ca)