POSTDOC: UMinnesota_Duluth.EvolutionPlantApomixis The Grusz Lab at the University of Minnesota Duluth, on the shores of Lake Superior, welcomes applications for a postdoctoral researcher to join a collaborative systematic study focused on examining whether abiotic environment shapes repeated origins of obligate apomixis in plants. JOB DESCRIPTION: The Department of Biology at the University of Minnesota Duluth (UMN-D) has an opening for a postdoctoral research associate. This is a P&A position, job code 9546. This is a full-time, 12-month position with an anticipated funding period of one year, supported through the National Science Foundation (NSF-DEB 2232106). The selected applicant would be an employee of UMD, advised by Dr. Amanda Grusz. We seek a strong candidate to collaborate on a drought-driven study focused on the evolution of reproductive mode (obligate apomixis) in plants, using ferns as a model system. The position will encompass the analysis of existing data and the generation of new information from laboratory and field studies. The goals of this research are: (1) to generate a robust phylogeny for the focal clade using target enrichment and phylogenomic approaches; (2) to assess climatic and reproductive traits across the focal clade using field observations and herbarium voucher specimens; and (3) to train next-generation undergraduate and graduate student researchers in classical and cutting-edge systematic techniques. The successful candidate will also have the opportunity to join the PI and graduate students in developing a course based undergraduate research experience focused on plant cytogenetics. An ideal candidate will have experience conducting cytogenetic surveys, fieldwork, and herbarium studies. The primary research sites for this work will be at UMN-D (Duluth, MN) and in the southwestern United States. Major Job Duties: Fieldwork: Collecting voucher specimens and conducting microhabitat monitoring (15%); Data collection and analyses: Herbarium surveys, molecular and phylogenomic analyses (35%); Graduate and undergraduate supervision and mentorship (25%); Writing articles for peer-reviewed scientific journals (20%); Presenting research findings at meetings/conferences (5%). The Employer retains the right to change or assign other duties to this position. REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS: * PhD in biology, botany, bioinformatics, or a related field from an accredited college or university at the time of hire; * Demonstrated experience using classical and cutting-edge systematic approaches (e.g., chromosome counts, flow cytometry, fuelgen microdensitometry, target enrichment, phylogenomics, bioinformatics); * Excellent communication skills and ability to work well within a collaborative team; * Evidence of leadership in teaching, research, and/or mentoring. Preferred (not required) qualifications: * Background mentoring undergraduate students * Skills in molecular systematics and/or pteridology * Experience conducting population genetic and/or phylogenetic comparative analyses integrating spatial, environmental, and morphological data * Proficiency in Spanish (writing, reading, and/or speaking) For details regarding this 1-year NSF-funded postdoctoral position, or to apply, go to https://humanresources.umn.edu/jobs and search for job ID 358216. Please provide a cover letter, your C.V., a brief research statement, and the names and contact information for three professional references. For more information regarding this position, please contact Dr. Amanda Grusz (algrusz@d.umn.edu). Review of completed applications will start April 26, 2024, and continue until the position is filled. The anticipated start date for this appointment is July 1, 2024 (some flexibility is possible). HOW TO APPLY: Applications must be submitted online. To apply, go to https://humanresources.umn.edu/jobs and search for job ID 358216. First, submit the application with a cover letter and CV/resume in pdf format. Then, return to the "My Job Applications" page to attach any additional documents, also in pdf format. Complete applications include the online application, cover letter, and resume/CV. Even if you provide this information within the application, you must also attach the requested additional document(s). Please do not miss this important step in the application process. Applications missing any of these documents may not be reviewed. ABOUT U OF M: University of Minnesota, Duluth (UMD) Overlooking Lake Superior, UMD is a regional comprehensive land- and sea-grant state university, one of five coordinate campuses within the State of Minnesota system and with a total enrollment of approximately 9,000 students. There are significant opportunities for fostering existing and creating new ties with local, regional, and national industry stakeholders. The city of Duluth offers an enticing selection of adventures for four season outdoor enthusiasts as well as a rich variety of cultural opportunities. Metropolitan Minneapolis/St. Paul is less than three hours south of Duluth. Duluth was named Outdoor magazine's Best Outdoors Town in 2014, celebrating its access to the outdoors and to Lake Superior -- the largest freshwater lake on earth by area. Duluth is home to hundreds of miles of biking, hiking, and skiing trails, including the Superior Hiking Trail, a 300+ mile trail intersecting Duluth, and the Duluth Traverse, an 85-mile multi-use biking and hiking trail stretching across town. In addition to the outdoors, the Twin Ports area has vibrant music, arts, crafts and craft brewing scenes, and a variety of award-winning restaurants. Duluth is a truly wonderful place to live, with great schools, health care, and affordable housing. It mixes its historic small-town feel with a dynamic urban economy and many cultural offerings. Diversity The University of Minnesota Duluth values diversity and inclusion and believes they are essential to achieving excellence. We have a strong institutional commitment to diversity in all areas and strongly encourage women, Indigenous, LGBTQ+, Black, Latinx, Asian American, Hawaiian/Island Pacific, mixed race and disabled scholars to apply. We favor candidates who can contribute to the College's distinctive educational objectives, which promote interdisciplinary perspectives, intercultural understanding, and concern with social responsibility and the ethical implications of knowledge and action. The University of Minnesota is an equal opportunity educator and employer. Veterans and individuals from underrepresented groups are encouraged to apply. The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu. Amanda L. Grusz (She/Her) Herbarium Director, Olga Lakela Herbarium (DUL) Associate Professor, Department of Biology University of Minnesota Duluth Duluth, MN USA Research Associate, Department of Botany National Museum of Natural History Smithsonian Institution Washington, DC USA Website: https://www.amandagrusz.net/ algrusz@d.umn.edu (to subscribe/unsubscribe the EvolDir send mail to golding@mcmaster.ca)