Title

Reports to

Postdoctoral Fellow

Assistant Curator

Basic Job Functions

The New York Botanical Garden is hiring a postdoctoral fellow to work on an NSF-funded collaborative project led by Curator Ana María Bedoya in collaboration with researchers at the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute, and the University of Washington, Seattle. The project involves the use of high-scale genomic (chromosome-scale and genome skimming), paleontological, and geological data to investigate: 1) the timing and pattern of plant exchange through rivers with the closure of the Isthmus of Panama. 2) Generate a deep-time model of river connectivity across the Americas.

Funding includes all research expenses, a workshop at STRI, and participation at conferences. This is a 2–3 year in-person appointment.

Start date: April 1, 2026. Dates may be flexible upon mutual agreement.

Position opened until filled. Application review will start on October 15th, 2025.

To apply, candidates must attach the following materials:

1. A cover letter detailing why they are interested and their qualifications for the position.
2. Current CV with links to publications and contact information for academic references.

For questions on the application please email abedoya@nybg.org.

Specific Duties & Responsibilities

The postdoctoral fellow will lead the phylogenetics and population genetics elements of the project. The appointment includes leading publications, conducting fieldwork in Costa Rica and Panama, wet-lab work, applying and expanding on existing analytical tools in phylogenetics and population genetics (including integrative distribution, demographic, and coalescent modeling), and the possibility of mentoring PhD students and interns.

Qualifications

• PhD by the time of the start of the appointment
• Experience in the application of phylogenetic methods, population genetic analyses, and/or demographic modeling
• Publication record showing proof of skillsets above (preprints are valid)
• Experience or proven strong desire to study Neotropical Botany
• Coding experience
• Fieldwork experience is preferred

Physical Demands & Work Environment:

While performing the duties of this position, the employee is required to work at a computer, stand and work outdoors for hours in a variety of weather conditions, and move items up to 30 pounds. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.

Baseline Work Schedule:

35 hours per week, Monday-Friday, with flexibility to work occasional evenings and weekends

Salary: $65,000.