Postdoctoral Research Associate

The Department of Anthropology at Texas A&M University is seeking to hire a Postdoctoral Research Associate to manage the Bioarchaeology and Genomics (BiG) Laboratory. The appointment will be for one year with the possibility of renewal for a second year. This is a full-time, 12 month, non-tenure-accruing position. Review of applicants will begin August 3, 2021, and the position will remain open until filled. The anticipated start date is September 1, 2021.

Required qualifications: The candidate will have a PhD in Anthropology in hand, experience working in an ancient DNA lab, and experience in bioinformatics. The candidate will be proficient in the extraction of DNA from human and animal bone, teeth, and soft tissue; the extraction of DNA from compounds (coprolites, sediments, soil samples); and, building libraries and preparing samples for sequencing.

Responsibilities: The candidate will oversee the day-to-day operations of the BiG Lab, including equipment operation and maintenance, inventory and ordering of lab supplies, and supervision of graduate and undergraduate research students working in the lab. The candidate will be expected to participate in research conducted by faculty and students in the Department of Anthropology.

Preferred qualifications: The ideal candidate will be skilled at working both as an independent researcher and as part of a research team, with a demonstrated ability to multi-task and work cooperatively with others; experience supervising the work of students is especially valued.  A research focus in bioarchaeological genomics and the ability to collect DNA samples in an archaeological setting are preferred.  Experience with Peopling of the Americas research would be an asset, as would a proven track record of writing and publishing skills.  

Application materials should include: a cover letter, a curriculum vitae, and names and contact details for three references. Application materials should be submitted through Workday at the following link: Postdoctoral Research Associate in the Bioarchaeology and Genomics (BiG) Laboratory. Any questions can be directed to Darryl de Ruiter (deruiter@tamu.edu).

The Department of Anthropology is made up of 23 full-time faculty, with programs in Archaeology, Biological Anthropology, Cultural Anthropology, and Nautical Archaeology. Texas A&M University is a public land-grant institution that serves undergraduates who are primarily from the state of Texas, along with a graduate and faculty body from around the world. Texas A&M University is committed to enriching the learning and working environment for all visitors, students, faculty, and staff by promoting a culture that embraces inclusion, diversity, equity, and accountability. Diverse perspectives, talents, and identities are vital to accomplishing our mission and living our core values. Texas A&M University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action/Veterans/Disability employer committed to building a culturally diverse educational environment. Applications from veterans, individuals with disabilities, women, minorities, and members of other underrepresented groups are strongly encouraged.

Bryan-College Station is a vibrant, dynamic community that offers cultural diversity, arts and entertainment, job opportunities, and overall quality of life. The community's low cost of living is advantageous to the student and general populations, making it an ideal place to live.