Job Description

Job Description

The University of Nevada, Reno is recruiting for a Postdoctoral Researcher - Plant Bioinformatics and Systems Genomics Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology University of Nevada, Reno (UNR). The University of Nevada, Reno (UNR) invites applications for a Postdoctoral Researcher to join Dr. Won C. Yim’s laboratory in the Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology. The successful candidate will contribute to a multi-institutional, federally funded project focused on improving the productivity of Opuntia (cactus pear) as a sustainable bioenergy feedstock through integrated genomic, metagenomic, and systems-level modeling of plant–microbe–soil interactions. This position provides a unique opportunity to work at the interface of plant genomics, metagenome analysis, and computational systems biology, in collaboration with researchers at national laboratories (PNNL, NREL) and USDA research centers.

Key Responsibilities

Lead bioinformatics analysis for large-scale genomic and metagenomic datasets derived from Opuntia and other desert-adapted plants.

Develop, optimize, and deploy genome assembly, annotation, and functional profiling pipelines using long-read and Hi-C sequencing data.

Integrate genomic and metagenomic results to identify key determinants of productivity and stress resilience in Opuntia.

Collaborate with molecular biologists, computational scientists, and agronomists to translate omics insights into physiological and ecological interpretations.

Prepare data visualizations, manuscripts, and conference presentations for dissemination of project results.

Required Qualifications

PhD in plant biology, genetics, genomics, bioinformatics, computational biology, or related field.

Completion of a doctoral degree in the appropriate discipline is required.

The doctoral degree must have been completed within the five years immediately preceding the first date of appointment as a postdoctoral fellow at the University.

The individual cannot have held previous positions in the professional ranks.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience with NGS data analysis and Linux based HPC environments.

Programming skills in Python or R and experience with Git.

Evidence of research productivity through peer reviewed publications.

Schedule and Travel
Schedule is Monday through Friday during normal business hours, with some flexibility in start and end times. Occasional evening or weekend work may be required to meet project deadlines or support time sensitive analyses.

Compensation Grade
Postdoctoral Scholar

To view the salary schedule for this position, please visit: Salary Schedules. Salary is competitive and commensurate with related education and experience.

Perks of Working at UNR

Health insurance options including dental and vision - Health Insurance

Generous annual and sick leave, life insurance – Faculty Benefits

E. L. Wiegand Fitness Center offers annual or semester memberships and spouse/domestic partner membership options. E.L. Wiegand Fitness Center

Reno is proud to be a University town! Many local businesses offer discounts to WolfCard holders

Mountain EAP supports employees (and eligible dependents) through life's difficult moments. Mountain EAP is located in Reno and specializes in counseling and advising services for personal or interpersonal issues.

Faculty Senate is the principal representing body for faculty. Its membership includes representatives from each academic and administrative major unit of the University. Faculty Senate

No state income tax!