Candidate will conduct research in coordination with one or more of the Curators at the LSUMNS. The candidate will also be responsible for helping with the laboratory mentoring of graduate and undergraduate research assistants and management of the Museum molecular genetics core facility. Ongoing projects in the lab include systematics and population genetics studies of birds, fish, mammals, reptiles and amphibians.
Job Responsibilities:
(75%) Conduct research on a semi-independent basis. Prepare and publish scientific manuscripts under the direction of a curator. Attend, contribute, and where necessary lead relevant meetings. Plan and develop research methods and techniques within the framework of the research program, such as phylogenomics, transcriptomics, comparative and population genomics, target capture, and other high-throughput sequencing methods. Bring new expertise to the research program. Undertake any other duties relevant to the program of research, including field work. Collaborate with research colleagues and support staff internally and develop appropriate external contacts relevant to the project and future funding opportunities. Be an active member of LSUMNS’s vibrant academic community by attending seminars, participating in journal clubs, etc.
(25%) Responsible for helping with the laboratory, mentoring, and training of graduate and undergraduate research assistants, and management of the LSUMNS’s shared molecular genetics facility. Ongoing projects in the lab include systematics and population genetic studies of birds, mammals, reptiles and amphibians, and fish. Monitor laboratory cleanliness and safety. Order general lab supplies for the department. Establish and enforce lab rules and regulations, and orient new staff/students at beginning of each semester. Attend regular meetings with the research team and investigators as required.
Required Qualifications: Ph.D. in Biology or related discipline; Expertise in evolutionary biology and computational biology; experience with next-generation molecular methods, such as whole-genome sequencing, target capture, and other genomic tools; strong publication record; ability to manage an active laboratory; and a record of and interest in continuing mentorship and outreach.
Special Instructions:
Applicant should provide a CV, a cover letter, contact information for three references, and a 2-page maximum research statement. Please indicate in your cover letter the curator you would like to work with.
For questions or concerns regarding the status of your application or salary ranges, please contact Dr. Gregory Thom at gthom@lsu.edu. We will begin reviewing applications on February 15, 2026.
Background Check - An offer of employment is contingent on a satisfactory pre-employment background check.
Benefits - LSU offers outstanding benefits to eligible employees and their dependents including health, life, dental, and vision insurance; flexible spending accounts; retirement options; various leave options; paid holidays; wellness benefits; tuition exemption for qualified positions; training and development opportunities; employee discounts; and more!
Positions approved to work outside the State of Louisiana shall be employed through Louisiana State University’s partner, nextSource Workforce Solutions, for Employer of Record Services including but not limited to employment, benefits, payroll, and tax compliance. Positions employed through Employer of Record Services will be offered benefits and retirement as applicable through their provider and will not be eligible for State of Louisiana benefits and retirement.
All candidates must have valid U.S. work authorization at the time of hire and maintain that valid work authorization throughout employment. Changes in laws, regulations, or government policies may impact the university’s ability to employ individuals in certain positions.
For questions or concerns related to updating your application with attachments (e.g., resumes, RS:17 documents), date of birth, or reactivating applications, please contact the LSU Human Resources Management Office at 225-578-8200 or email HR@lsu.edu. For questions or concerns regarding the status of your application or salary ranges, please contact the department using the information provided in the Special Instructions section of this job posting.