Postdoctoral Research Associate, Fishman Lab, Plant Evolutionary Genomics, Focal Project
- University of Montana
- Missoula, Montana
- Full Time
Postdoctoral Research Associate, Fishman Lab, Plant Evolutionary Genomics, Focal Project
University of Montana
in Missoula, MT
Apply Now
Type: Full-Time
Salary: Salary: $65,000-70,000 per year
Posted: 06/16/2025
Category: Environmental Science, Ecology, and Forestry
Postdoctoral Research Associate, Fishman Lab, Plant Evolutionary Genomics, Focal Project
University of Montana
Location: Missoula, MT, United States
Open Date: Jun 13, 2025
Deadline:
Description
The Fishman Lab is seeking a postdoctoral associate to join our research program in plant evolutionary genomics at the University of Montana. The NSF-funded project investigates the evolution and mechanistic basis of novel reproductive trait, touch-sensitive stigma movement in monkeyflowers (Phrymaceae) and other core Lamiales.
The focal project uses comparative genomics/transcriptomics, genetic mapping, and functional approaches to investigate the origin(s) mechanisms, and repeated loss of touch-sensitive stigma closure. This complex trait, in which the bilobed stigma closes rapidly upon touch (like a tiny Venus flytrap) but re-opens in the absence of legitimate pollination, involves mechanosensing, signal transduction, turgor/cell-shape regulation, and pollen-sensing components. It thus provides a window into mechanisms of plant reproductive signaling as well as the build-up and break-down of a novel trait. Touch-sensitive stigma movement occurs in ~50% of families in core Lamiales, suggesting multiple losses, and has also been repeatedly lost in self-pollinating monkeyflowers. This multi-scale variation creates unique opportunities for integrative research into floral trait evolution using new chromosome-scale monkeyflower genomes and other genetic/genomic resources. Therefore, we particularly encourage applicants interested in developing a Mimulus research program at the interface of evolutionary genomics and cellular genetics.
The specific research foci will depend on the postdoc's interests/background, but will start with:
Analysis of transcriptomics datasets to identify stigma gene networks and characterize their evolution within monkeyflowers and across closing and nonclosing Lamiales.
Plus one or more of the following components:
Fine-mapping of loci underlying repeated losses of stigma closure within monkeyflowers.
Functional studies (microscopy, in situs, candidate validation, etc.) to refine components and loci.
Pollination experiments and/or population genomics to test evolutionary roles of stigma closure.
Regardless of research focus, the postdoc will:
Help train and mentor graduate and undergraduate students.
Participate in lab outreach and community-building activities.
Disseminate project results through publications (i.e., writing papers) and presentations.
Have the opportunity to develop novel research directions and contribute to other lab projects.
The position provides some flexibility for periodic remote work, but the postdoc is expected to be physically based in the Fishman Lab at the University of Montana (Missoula, MT).
Position Details
Position is full-time, 1.0 FTE, Letter of Appointment and includes a comprehensive and competitive benefits package including insurance package, mandatory retirement plan, partial tuition waiver, and wellness program.
Salary: $65,000-70,000 per year (depending on prior experience).
Start date: flexible, but ideally between September and December 2025.
The initial appointment will be for one year, with 1-3 (depending on research activities relative to overall project goals) additional years possible pending satisfactory performance and funding.
Qualifications
Required Qualifications:
Candidates must have a Ph.D. in Ecology & Evolutionary Biology, Genetics, Genomics, Plant Biology, or a related discipline.
Solid background in common statistical and bioinformatic methods used in plant genomics/transcriptomics and familiarity with plant morphology/anatomy.
Strong work ethic and excellent problem-solving, written communication, and time management skills.
A track record of independent research activity resulting in first-authored publications.
Preferred Qualifications:
Prior experience in floral developmental biology, and plant transcriptomic analysis (e.g. WGCNA), quantitative genetics, and/or population genomics would be particularly valuable.
Application Instructions
Screening of applications will begin after the closing date of July 31, 2025; however, applications will continue to be accepted until an adequate applicant pool has been established.
To apply, please upload the following materials:
Letter of Interest - addressing the stated required skills for the position
Detailed resume listing education and describing work experience
Three (3) professional references - Names and contact information
The University of Montana is interested in receiving applications from people who would assist the University in demonstrating its five priorities for action: Place student success at the center of all we do; drive excellence and innovation in teaching, learning, and research; embody the principle of "mission first, people always"; partner with place; and proudly tell the UM story.
For more information and to apply, visit
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
University of Montana (UM) is an equal opportunity employer. UM does not discriminate against any applicant on the basis of protected class status as described in UM's non-discrimination policy and any applicable law.
Reasonable accommodations are provided in the hiring process for persons with disabilities. For example, this material is available in alternative format upon request.
Qualified candidates may request veterans' or disabilities preference in accordance with state law.
Criminal Background Investigation is required prior to the offer of employment. In accordance with university regulations, finalists for this position will be subject to criminal background investigations.
References: References not listed on the application materials may be contacted; notice may be provided to the applicant. Testing: Individual hiring departments at UM may elect to administer pre-employment tests, which are relevant to essential job functions.
Employment Eligibility: All New Employees must be eligible and show employment eligibility verification by the first date of employment at UM, as legally required (e.g., Form I-9).
jeid-22209d22e8b06942a2a539584ba33a04
Apply Now
University of Montana
in Missoula, MT
Apply Now
Type: Full-Time
Salary: Salary: $65,000-70,000 per year
Posted: 06/16/2025
Category: Environmental Science, Ecology, and Forestry
Postdoctoral Research Associate, Fishman Lab, Plant Evolutionary Genomics, Focal Project
University of Montana
Location: Missoula, MT, United States
Open Date: Jun 13, 2025
Deadline:
Description
The Fishman Lab is seeking a postdoctoral associate to join our research program in plant evolutionary genomics at the University of Montana. The NSF-funded project investigates the evolution and mechanistic basis of novel reproductive trait, touch-sensitive stigma movement in monkeyflowers (Phrymaceae) and other core Lamiales.
The focal project uses comparative genomics/transcriptomics, genetic mapping, and functional approaches to investigate the origin(s) mechanisms, and repeated loss of touch-sensitive stigma closure. This complex trait, in which the bilobed stigma closes rapidly upon touch (like a tiny Venus flytrap) but re-opens in the absence of legitimate pollination, involves mechanosensing, signal transduction, turgor/cell-shape regulation, and pollen-sensing components. It thus provides a window into mechanisms of plant reproductive signaling as well as the build-up and break-down of a novel trait. Touch-sensitive stigma movement occurs in ~50% of families in core Lamiales, suggesting multiple losses, and has also been repeatedly lost in self-pollinating monkeyflowers. This multi-scale variation creates unique opportunities for integrative research into floral trait evolution using new chromosome-scale monkeyflower genomes and other genetic/genomic resources. Therefore, we particularly encourage applicants interested in developing a Mimulus research program at the interface of evolutionary genomics and cellular genetics.
The specific research foci will depend on the postdoc's interests/background, but will start with:
Analysis of transcriptomics datasets to identify stigma gene networks and characterize their evolution within monkeyflowers and across closing and nonclosing Lamiales.
Plus one or more of the following components:
Fine-mapping of loci underlying repeated losses of stigma closure within monkeyflowers.
Functional studies (microscopy, in situs, candidate validation, etc.) to refine components and loci.
Pollination experiments and/or population genomics to test evolutionary roles of stigma closure.
Regardless of research focus, the postdoc will:
Help train and mentor graduate and undergraduate students.
Participate in lab outreach and community-building activities.
Disseminate project results through publications (i.e., writing papers) and presentations.
Have the opportunity to develop novel research directions and contribute to other lab projects.
The position provides some flexibility for periodic remote work, but the postdoc is expected to be physically based in the Fishman Lab at the University of Montana (Missoula, MT).
Position Details
Position is full-time, 1.0 FTE, Letter of Appointment and includes a comprehensive and competitive benefits package including insurance package, mandatory retirement plan, partial tuition waiver, and wellness program.
Salary: $65,000-70,000 per year (depending on prior experience).
Start date: flexible, but ideally between September and December 2025.
The initial appointment will be for one year, with 1-3 (depending on research activities relative to overall project goals) additional years possible pending satisfactory performance and funding.
Qualifications
Required Qualifications:
Candidates must have a Ph.D. in Ecology & Evolutionary Biology, Genetics, Genomics, Plant Biology, or a related discipline.
Solid background in common statistical and bioinformatic methods used in plant genomics/transcriptomics and familiarity with plant morphology/anatomy.
Strong work ethic and excellent problem-solving, written communication, and time management skills.
A track record of independent research activity resulting in first-authored publications.
Preferred Qualifications:
Prior experience in floral developmental biology, and plant transcriptomic analysis (e.g. WGCNA), quantitative genetics, and/or population genomics would be particularly valuable.
Application Instructions
Screening of applications will begin after the closing date of July 31, 2025; however, applications will continue to be accepted until an adequate applicant pool has been established.
To apply, please upload the following materials:
Letter of Interest - addressing the stated required skills for the position
Detailed resume listing education and describing work experience
Three (3) professional references - Names and contact information
The University of Montana is interested in receiving applications from people who would assist the University in demonstrating its five priorities for action: Place student success at the center of all we do; drive excellence and innovation in teaching, learning, and research; embody the principle of "mission first, people always"; partner with place; and proudly tell the UM story.
For more information and to apply, visit
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
University of Montana (UM) is an equal opportunity employer. UM does not discriminate against any applicant on the basis of protected class status as described in UM's non-discrimination policy and any applicable law.
Reasonable accommodations are provided in the hiring process for persons with disabilities. For example, this material is available in alternative format upon request.
Qualified candidates may request veterans' or disabilities preference in accordance with state law.
Criminal Background Investigation is required prior to the offer of employment. In accordance with university regulations, finalists for this position will be subject to criminal background investigations.
References: References not listed on the application materials may be contacted; notice may be provided to the applicant. Testing: Individual hiring departments at UM may elect to administer pre-employment tests, which are relevant to essential job functions.
Employment Eligibility: All New Employees must be eligible and show employment eligibility verification by the first date of employment at UM, as legally required (e.g., Form I-9).
jeid-22209d22e8b06942a2a539584ba33a04
Apply Now
Job ID: 481712686
Originally Posted on: 6/18/2025
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