Postdoctoral Research Associate in Evolutionary Genomics & Molecular Evolution at Lehigh University, USA (2026)

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Lehigh University, USA, has announced an exciting Postdoctoral Research Associate opportunity in Evolutionary Genomics and Molecular Evolution within the Schultz Lab. The position is ideal for highly motivated researchers interested in genomics, phylogenomics, marine biology, evolutionary biology, bioinformatics, and molecular evolution.

The research focuses on understanding the animal tree of life through cutting-edge computational and experimental approaches, including comparative genomics, phylogenomics, single-cell biology, marine biochemistry, and deep-sea adaptation research.

The position is based in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, USA, and applications are open until the position is filled.

About the Schultz Lab

The Schultz Lab conducts interdisciplinary research at the interface of:

  • Evolutionary genomics

  • Comparative biology

  • Molecular evolution

  • Marine biology

  • Bioinformatics

  • Cell-type evolution

The lab integrates computational and experimental approaches to study how animal genomes, cell types, and biochemical systems evolved across deep evolutionary timescales.

Researchers in the lab work on large-scale phylogenomic questions while also exploring functional mechanisms in marine organisms and deep-sea species.

Main Research Areas

The selected postdoctoral researcher may lead projects in one or more of the following areas:

1. Early Animal Evolution

Research focuses on genome evolution and cell-type diversification using comparative genomics and phylogenomics.

2. Deep-Sea Adaptations

The project investigates genomic and cellular adaptations associated with deep-sea animal radiations and extreme marine environments.

3. Methodological Development

Researchers will develop computational tools and methods for cross-species comparative analyses and evolutionary genomics.

4. Marine Biochemistry and Bioluminescence

The lab studies biochemical mechanisms underlying marine bioluminescence in invertebrates.

5. Phylogenomics

Projects involve building large-scale phylogenetic tools integrating chromosome structure and genomic sequence information across the tree of life.

Research Approaches and Techniques

Depending on project fit, research may involve:

Computational and Genomic Methods

  • Bioinformatics

  • Genome assembly

  • Genome annotation

  • Phylogenomics

  • Programming and data analysis

Molecular and Cellular Biology

  • Single-cell isolation

  • scRNA-seq

  • Multi-omics analysis

Experimental Biology

  • Microscopy

  • Protein biochemistry

  • Marine organism research

This combination of computational and experimental biology makes the position highly interdisciplinary and technically advanced.

Main Responsibilities

The selected candidate will:

  • Lead independent and collaborative research projects

  • Publish research in peer-reviewed journals

  • Develop new computational or experimental methods

  • Mentor students and collaborate with research teams

  • Contribute to the scientific direction of the laboratory

While teaching is not mandatory, the lab provides opportunities for professional and pedagogical development.

Required Qualifications

Applicants must have:

  • A PhD in:

    • Bioinformatics

    • Biological Sciences

    • Evolutionary Biology

    • Molecular Biology

    • Or a closely related field

Candidates should demonstrate strong expertise in:

  • Molecular biology

  • Programming and bioinformatics

  • Scientific writing

  • DNA/RNA sequencing

  • Comparative genomics

A strong publication record in reputable scientific journals is also expected.

Preferred Skills

Additional beneficial skills include:

  • FACS

  • Protein purification

  • Fluorescence microscopy

  • Expansion microscopy

  • Marine fieldwork

  • Aquarium animal rearing

  • Invertebrate transgenics

  • Scuba diving

  • Research cruise operations

These skills are helpful but not mandatory.

Fieldwork Opportunities

One unique aspect of this position is the opportunity to participate in marine fieldwork and oceanographic research expeditions.

The selected candidate may participate in:

  • Day-long marine sampling trips

  • Extended research cruises (7–30 days)

  • Remote field station research

  • Marine organism collection

This makes the opportunity particularly attractive for researchers interested in marine evolutionary biology and deep-sea genomics.

Salary and Benefits

Salary

  • $62,232 annually

  • Additional benefits included

The compensation package is competitive and includes university benefits and professional support.

The appointment is:

  • Full-time

  • Initially for two years

  • Renewable based on funding and performance

About Lehigh University

Lehigh University is a leading private research university located in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, USA. The university is recognized for strong interdisciplinary research, collaborative academic culture, and commitment to innovation.

Lehigh promotes:

  • Diversity and inclusion

  • Professional development

  • Research excellence

  • Collaborative science

Researchers also benefit from comprehensive healthcare, retirement plans, and tuition support programs.

Application Requirements

Applicants must submit:

  • Cover letter

  • Curriculum Vitae (CV)

  • One representative publication

  • Contact details for 2–3 referees

The cover letter should include:

  • Research interests

  • Relevant expertise

  • Proposed project ideas

Applications will be reviewed until the position is filled.

Official Application Link

Apply here:  Lehigh University Career Portal


Why This Opportunity Is Important

This postdoctoral opportunity is particularly valuable because it combines:

  • Evolutionary genomics

  • Marine biology

  • Bioinformatics

  • Comparative genomics

  • Molecular evolution

  • Deep-sea biology

  • Computational biology

The position also offers unusual opportunities for:

  • Marine field expeditions

  • Interdisciplinary research

  • Method development

  • High-impact evolutionary biology research

Researchers interested in the origins and evolution of animal diversity will find this opportunity highly competitive and scientifically exciting.

Final Thoughts

The Postdoctoral Research Associate position at Lehigh University offers an exceptional platform for researchers interested in evolutionary genomics and molecular evolution.

With strong interdisciplinary research, opportunities for fieldwork and computational biology, and advanced genomics approaches, the position provides excellent career development for scientists pursuing academic or research-intensive careers in evolutionary biology and genomics.

Researchers with interests in phylogenomics, marine biology, comparative genomics, and molecular evolution should strongly consider applying.

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