Description

We invite applications for a 2-year Postdoctoral Research Associate to conduct a genomics study on the ecological and evolutionary underpinnings of dispersal and range expansion of invasive barred owls in California. This work is part of a collaborative project funded through the California Department of Fish and Wildlife’s Cannabis Restoration Grant in partnership with the Hoopa Valley Tribe.

Project Overview
The project seeks to unravel the ecological and evolutionary mechanisms sharing individual dispersal patterns and population range expansion of invasive barred owls (Strix varia) in California. Using genomic kinship and landscape genomics approaches, the project integrates existing and newly generated SNP data (Oxford Nanopore sequencing) to understand movement pathways and environmental drivers of dispersal. Additional genomics-based projects of mutual interest can be developed. Because barred owls are an invasive species in the Pacific Northwest and California, this work is situated within a broader management context that includes lethal removal. Applicants should be aware of and comfortable working within this applied conservation framework.

Primary Responsibilities

        Oxford Nanopore library preparation and sequencing

        Generate and analyze genomic data (whole genome, ddRAD, adaptive sequencing)

        Perform population and landscape genomic analyses to address project objectives

        Lead preparation of at least two peer-reviewed manuscript

Research Environment
The postdoctoral researcher will work directly with Dr. Emily Fountain in a collaborative genomics lab that emphasizes shared learning, mentorship, and teamwork. The selected applicant will also work under supervision and collaboration with Dr. Zach Peery. This position involves engaging with the Peery Lab through meetings and group activities, with opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration and community-building.

This project is conducted in partnership with the Hoopa Valley Tribe, and we welcome applicants interested in research at the intersection of genomics, conservation, and Tribal natural resource priorities. We value diverse perspectives, interdisciplinary experiences, and community-engaged approaches to science.

Website: https://peery.russell.wisc.edu/

Institutional statement on diversity: 
Diversity is a source of strength, creativity, and innovation for UW-Madison. We value the contributions of each person and respect the profound ways their identity, culture, background, experience, status, abilities, and opinion enrich the university community. We commit ourselves to the pursuit of excellence in teaching, research, outreach, and diversity as inextricably linked goals. 

The University of Wisconsin-Madison fulfills its public mission by creating a welcoming and inclusive community for people from every background - people who as students, faculty, and staff serve Wisconsin and the world.

Position Details
This is a full-time, 2-year position, with the potential to extend pending additional funding. This position will be based full-time, on site, at the University of Wisconsin – Madison.

Salary: $70,000 + benefits

Anticipated start date: Earliest start date is anticipated to be 15 June 2026 

Application Materials
To apply, please submit the following materials to Dr. Emily Fountain at efountain@wisc.edu:

A current resume/CV, a cover letter briefly describing qualifications relevant to the positions, and three professional references.

Applications will be considered on a rolling basis, but priority will be given to applications received by 18 May 2026. 

Requirements

Required Qualifications

        Ph.D. in ecology, evolutionary biology, genetics, genomics, wildlife biology, or a related field

        Experience with molecular laboratory techniques and genomics data analysis

        Strong scientific writing skills and history of publishing impactful peer-reviewed papers in ecology, evolutionary, or conservation journals. 

        Ability to work independently and collaboratively

        Willingness to work with samples derived from invasive species removal

Preferred Qualifications

        Experience with next-generation sequencing (NGS) library preparation

        Familiarity with Linux and high-performance computing environments

        Experience analyzing SNP and/or whole genome datasets

        Background in conservation genomics or molecular ecology