We are hiring a PostDoc!
Position: Postdoctoral Fellow in Evolutionary Genomics or Microbial Ecology
Summary: A postdoctoral position is available in the laboratory of Dr. Denise Dearing in the School of Biological Sciences at the University of Utah. Our current research focuses on the evolution of the mammalian detoxification system and the mechanisms of adaptation to dietary toxins in herbivorous woodrats including the role of the microbiome. Please visit our website for more information about our research and the lab: https://www.dearinglab.com or email Denise Dearing denise.dearing@utah.edu.
Required qualifications:
1. Ph.D. in genetics, genomics, evolutionary biology, microbiology or a closely related field
2. Track record of research productivity as evidenced in first-author publications
3. Demonstrated ability and willingness to work both independently and collaboratively
4. Excellent written and oral English communication skills
5. Willingness to work with wild rodents and in the field
6. Expertise with next generation sequencing data and associated bioinformatics
Preferred qualifications: Candidates should have a strong background in either evolutionary genetics/genomics including preparation of in-house DNA/RNA sequencing libraries or microbiome science, including 16SrRNA metabarcoding, metagenomics, isolation and culture. Prior analysis of high-throughput sequencing data and experience with R and Python required.
Application materials: To apply, please submit the following materials:
1. CV
2. A one-page cover letter that includes your research experience and interests, career goals as well as your preferred approximate start date.
3. Names and contact information of two references who are not the current supervisor (see below) willing to submit letters of reference upon request.
How to apply: Please email application materials in a single PDF to Todd Roberts: todd.roberts@Biology.utah.edu; cc Denise Dearing: denise.dearing@utah.edu. Put “Postdoc application 2026-Dearing lab” in the subject line.
In addition, a confidential letter of recommendation is requested from the candidate’s current supervisor within a week of the candidate’s application submission. This letter should be submitted directly and exclusively to Dr. Denise Dearing, denise.dearing@utah.edu with “post-doc reference” in the subject line. If this is not possible, the candidate should explain why in the cover letter.
Applications will be reviewed shortly after receipt. Position can begin as early as August 1, 2026. Salary commensurate with the NIH postdoc scale (https://www.niaid.nih.gov/grants-contracts/salary-cap-stipends); health care included (see UofU staff plan options here: https://benefits.utah.edu/health-wellness/).
Scientific and cultural environment: The School of Biological Sciences comprises a diverse and vibrant group of laboratories, with research interests ranging from environmental biology to biochemistry. The genetics and evolutionary biology communities are strong on the University of Utah and offer numerous opportunities for collaboration. The growing cross campus interest group in the area of evolutionary genetics and genomics is especially interactive.
The University of Utah is located in beautiful Salt Lake City, with easy access to world-class entertainment and recreation. Utah has 5 national parks, and the university is within a 40-minute drive of at least six major alpine skiing and snowboarding resorts, including venues of the 2002 Olympics. Hiking and mountain biking trails begin essentially on campus. Outside Magazine recently called Salt Lake City “one of the nation's most underrated outdoor meccas.” There are numerous performing art venues such as the Utah Symphony & Opera and Broadway at the Eccles theater. The city is also a major airline hub (Delta), with non-stop flights throughout North America and Europe, Asia (Paris, Amsterdam, Seoul).
Nondiscrimination & accessibility statement: The University of Utah does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, status as a disabled individual, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, genetic information or protected veteran’s status, in employment, treatment, admission, access to educational programs and activities, or other University benefits or services.
