Postdoctoral Research Associate in Evolutionary Genomics & Molecular Evolution

Job no: 503761

Work type: Exempt Staff Full-time

Location: Bethlehem

Categories: Postdoc

The Schultz Lab is seeking highly motivated PhD-level scientists to lead computational or hybrid wet-lab/computational projects. The successful candidate will conduct research at the interface of genomics and evolution, investigating the animal tree of life.

Position Number: RC3820

Anticipated Salary: $62,232 - Compensation will be competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience, including benefits.

Primary Research Areas

Candidates will lead projects in one or more of the following areas:

• Early Animal Evolution: Investigating genome and cell-type evolution via comparative genomics and phylogenomics.
• Deep-Sea Adaptations: Studying genomic and cellular adaptations associated with deep-sea radiations.
• Methodological Development: Creating computational tools for cross-species comparative analyses.
• Marine Biochemistry: Uncovering the biochemical mechanisms of bioluminescence in marine invertebrates.
• Phylogenomics: Building phylogenetic tools to integrating chromosome structural and sequence information at tree-of-life scale.
  
  

Depending on project fit and candidate expertise, research may involve:

• Genomics & Bioinformatics: Programming, genome assembly, annotation, and phylogenomics.
• Cellular & Molecular Biology: Single-cell isolation, scRNA-seq, or multi-omics.
• Experimental Science: Microscopy and biochemistry.
  
  

Responsibilities

• Lead independent and collaborative research projects.
• Prepare and submit manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed journals.
• While teaching is not a core requirement, the lab provides opportunities for pedagogical and professional growth.
  
  

Qualifications:

Required

Ph.D. in Bioinformatics, Biological Sciences, or a closely related field, completed by the start of the appointment.

The ideal candidate will have strong skills in molecular biology, programming/bioinformatics, scientific writing, DNA/RNA sequencing, and cross-species comparative biology.

Additional skills that are helpful but no required include FACS, fieldwork, protein purification, fluorescence and expansion microscopy, rearing animals in aquaria, and invertebrate transgenics.

Demonstrated research experience and a track record of publication in reputable scientific journals.

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with a commitment to fostering an inclusive research and teaching environment.

Proven ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative research team.Terms of Appointment:

This position is a full-time, two-year position with the possibility of renewal based on performance and funding availability. The ideal candidate will also be willing to perform fieldwork to collect marine organisms, including but not limited to day-long or extended (seven - thirty day) research cruises, and field trips to remote stations. Skills in scuba diving (AAUS-certification preferred) and research cruise operations are helpful but not required, depending on project needs and candidate interest.

Compensation will be competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience, including benefits. Please visit the Postdoctoral Affairs Office website for the compensation policy at Lehigh University.

Application Process

Applicants should submit:

• A cover letter addressing your interest in the position, how your expertise meets the advertised position directions, and one or more project ideas you would hope to lead.
• A curriculum vitae (CV).
• Contact information for two - three references.
• One representative publication. Candidate materials will be reviewed until the position is filled.
  
  

Lehigh University offers a vibrant and inclusive work environment that fosters professional growth, personal development, and a strong sense of community. With a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, we value the unique perspectives and experiences of our employees. Competitive benefits, including comprehensive healthcare plans, tuition remission, and retirement savings opportunities, ensure your well-being and long-term success. Lehigh University is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate. We are committed to a culturally and intellectually diverse community and we seek qualified candidates to contribute to the university’s mission.

Persons with disabilities who anticipate needing an accommodation for any part of the interview or hiring process may contact Lehigh's Accommodations Specialist.

• The duties of the position do not allow for a remote work option; the employee in this position will be required to work on campus where they can be fully accessible to the Lehigh community
• This position works with minors
  
  

Successful completion of standard background checks including but not limited to: social security verification, education verification, national criminal background checks, motor vehicle checks, PATCH, FBI fingerprinting, Child Abuse Clearance and credit history based upon the requirements of the position.

Only complete applications will be considered therefore please complete the application in its entirety. Once the posting is removed from the website applications may no longer be allowed to be completed.

Advertised: February 19, 2026 Eastern Standard Time

Applications close: Open until filled