Postdoctoral Fellow

We are seeking two postdoctoral researchers to collaborate on an interdisciplinary project in genome-level ecology. This field takes a novel approach to genomics, focusing primarily on transposable genetic elements (TEs) rather than on conventional genetic or epigenetic components of the genome. More specifically, our project views TEs as ecological agents inhabiting an intra-cellular environment. The aim is to explain patterns in the abundance and diversity of TE communities by applying ecological concepts, models, and methods at the genomic level. Suitable candidates will have experience in at least one of the following areas.

• Philosophy of biology. An aptitude for clarifying scientific concepts and applying them outside their conventional domains. Expertise in the either the philosophy of ecology, the philosophy of biological agency, or the philosophy of genomics (all broadly construed) is an asset.
• Comparative genomics. Ideally, research expertise in analyzing whole-genome sequence data with a focus in bioinformatics. Experience working with TEs or some knowledge of their biological interactions within the genome is an asset.
• Community ecology. Ideally, research expertise in analyzing community-level data (e.g. species diversity and abundance or spatial ecology) to discern likely ecological processes, such as competition or niche partitioning.
• Computational modeling. Ideally, research expertise in agent-based modeling working with high performance computing clusters (HPC).  Experience working on multi-species interactions within ecological communities or interactions among multiple genetic elements within genomes is an asset.

Successful candidates should have a PhD in a discipline relevant to the project (e.g. philosophy, molecular biology, bioinformatics, ecology, or computer science). It is not necessary for successful candidates to have expertise in all aspects of the project, but an enthusiasm for interdisciplinary collaboration is highly valued. Strong candidates will have expertise in two or more research areas.

These positions are funded by the John Templeton Foundation as part of a grant awarded to Dr. Stefan Linquist entitled, “Transposable Genetic Elements as Ecological Agents.” Other members of the core research team include Dr. Ryan Gregory (evolutionary genetics), Dr. Stefan Kremer (computer science), Dr. Karl Cottenie (community ecology), Dr. Ford Doolittle (philosophy and evolutionary biology), Dr. Brent Saylor (bioinformatics), and Dr. Tyler A. Elliott (evolutionary genomics). Successful candidates will work in collaboration with the entire research team. There will be opportunities for learning new research skills and theoretical approaches associated with the various dimensions of this project.

Starting salaries are approximately $65,000 - 70,000 CAD plus benefits. Candidates will ideally start in May, 2025. The positions each run for a duration of two years. There will be an opportunity to teach one course per year in the Department of Philosophy at the University of Guelph for additional remuneration, if so desired by the successful candidates.

At the University of Guelph, fostering a culture of inclusion is an institutional imperative. The University invites and encourages applications from all qualified individuals, including groups that are traditionally underrepresented in employment, who may contribute to further diversification and inclusion.