Postdoctoral position in population genomics in Montpellier, France We are looking for a postdoctoral researcher with experience in population genomics to work on an ANR-funded project ( https://anr.fr/Project-ANR-23-CE27-0023 ) addressing the emergence and evolutionary history of agriculture in the Congo Basin rainforests using genomic approaches. Specifically, we aim at reconstructing the spatio-temporal dynamics of diffusion of a set of culturally emblematic local food plants (trees, palms, cereals and tubers) and at analyzing how their recent ecological and evolutionary histories (7,000 BP to present) were affected by human occupation, migration and new agricultural practices. The postdoc will be in charge of population genomic analyses exploring the evolutionary history (domestication and diffusion) of nine key food plant species from the Central African rainforests. Tasks include coalescent-based demographic inferences, although the postdoc will be free to investigate her/his own path of analysis. For each species, 48 geo-referenced samples representative of the species geographic distribution in central Africa have been sequenced through (i) a shot gun procedure in order to recover their cpDNA for phylogeographic analyses, (ii) an enrichment strategy using the Angiosperm 353 bait kit to conduct genetic structure and demographic scenario analyses based on the allele frequency spectra (iii) a shot gun strategy on five individuals per species in order to conduct demographic analyses (e.g. using the pairwise sequentially Markovian coalescent (PSMC) method). The position will be based at IRD (French national research institute for sustainable development) in Montpellier, France. The postdoc will closely work with Jérôme Duminil, Philippe Cubry, Rémi Tournebize and Cédric Mariac, all based in the same team and unit (UMR DIADE) at IRD, Montpellier. Applicants should have a PhD or postdoctoral experience in a relevant area (evolutionary biology, population genomics). We will prioritize someone with a vivid interest in evolutionary biology and demographic / phylogeography research and with a strong background in population genomics and statistical genetics. Experience with handling genomic data and population genomic methods, as well as skills in bioinformatics and programming, are required. Previous experience with simulation-based methods would be a plus. Good written and verbal communication skills, interpersonal skills, a strong work ethic, and the ability to think creatively and critically are desired. Working language can be either English or French, depending on the candidate's preference. The appointment is for 22 up to 24 months, with an ideal starting date in March 2026. Salary will be about 2 200 euros per month after taxation, depending on experience. Health insurance costs for the candidate and his/her family are included in the taxation ( https://www.cleiss.fr/docs/regimes/regime_france/an_1.html ). Foreign nationalities can benefit from government support for housing and children's education depending on their income. French school fees are free or low. Several public schools located in Montpellier area offer international sections (English, Spanish, Arabic, Chinese). Foreign researchers can get additional information and administrative help from Euraxess local office. The city of Montpellier and it surrounding area combine culture, good infrastructure, warm weather (with soft winters), most amenities within a walking distance, and a sophisticated yet not too urbanized lifestyle. Public transports are free for city residents. Montpellier is a dynamic city with more than 50% of the population under 34 years old. Montpellier has its own airport and a direct train to Paris and other main European cities (Barcelona, Lyon, etc.). Surroundings combined with Mediterranean climate offer great opportunities for outdoor activities in sea and mountain environments. Informal inquiries are welcome and can be addressed to Jérôme Duminil ( Jerome.duminil@ird.fr ). Full applications should be sent by email to Jérôme Duminil accompanied by a 1) cover letter, 2) a detailed CV, 3) a list of publications, and 4) two referees' contact number or email address. Application deadline is set at 15/01/2026 . Reviewing of applications will begin soon after the deadline but the position will remain open until a suitable candidate is identified. Dr. Jérôme Duminil IRD Senior researcher https://sites.google.com/site/plantbiodiversityadaptation/ phone : +33 (0)467416309 IRD - Institut de Recherche pour le Développement UMR DIADE, équipe Dynadiv 911 avenue d'Agropolis BP 64501 34394 Montpellier Cedex 5 Jérôme Duminil (to subscribe/unsubscribe the EvolDir send mail to golding@mcmaster.ca)