Postdoctoral Position in Avian Transcriptomics and Conservation at University of Wisconsin–Madison, USA| $70,000 Salary
The University of Wisconsin–Madison is inviting applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate position in Avian Transcriptomics and Conservation. This full-time, two-year research appointment focuses on understanding how environmental contaminants influence wildlife health through advanced genomic approaches. The selected researcher will investigate the sub-lethal effects of rodenticide exposure in wild owls using transcriptomic methods, including RNA sequencing (RNA-seq), genome-wide gene expression analysis, and conservation genomics.
This position provides an opportunity for an early-career scientist to contribute to a collaborative project connecting molecular ecology, wildlife conservation, environmental toxicology, and applied management. The research is conducted through a partnership involving the University of Wisconsin–Madison, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife Cannabis Restoration Grant programme, and the Hoopa Valley Tribe.
Position Overview
Position Title: Postdoctoral Research Associate – Avian Transcriptomics and Conservation
Institution: University of Wisconsin–Madison
Location: Madison, Wisconsin, USA
Position Type: Full-time Postdoctoral Appointment
Duration: 2 years (with potential extension based on funding availability)
Salary: $70,000 per year plus benefits
Expected Start Date: After 20 July 2026
Application Deadline: 31 July 2026
Priority Consideration Deadline: 30 June 2026
Required Education: Ph.D.
Required Experience: Minimum 1 year
Research Project Description
The postdoctoral researcher will lead a genomics-based investigation into the biological effects of rodenticide exposure in invasive barred owls (Strix varia) in California. The project aims to identify genome-wide changes in gene expression associated with exposure to environmental contaminants. Researchers will analyze multiple tissue samples collected from owls previously screened for exposure to 14 different rodenticides. Through transcriptomic analysis, the project will help reveal how toxic chemicals affect physiological processes in forest predators and provide valuable information for wildlife conservation and management strategies. The findings are expected to contribute to:
- Understanding environmental toxicant impacts on wildlife health
- Improving conservation decision-making
- Advancing molecular ecology research
- Supporting evidence-based species management approaches
Because barred owls are considered an invasive species in parts of the Pacific Northwest and California, the research is connected to broader conservation management programmes that include population control measures. Applicants should be comfortable working within this applied conservation framework.
Key Research Responsibilities
The selected Postdoctoral Research Associate will be responsible for:
- Performing RNA extractions and RNA-seq library preparation
- Generating and analysing transcriptomic datasets
- Conducting genome-wide gene expression analyses
- Performing population and landscape genomic analyses
- Developing additional genomics-based research projects where appropriate
- Preparing and leading at least two peer-reviewed scientific manuscripts
The position combines laboratory research, computational biology, scientific writing, and conservation applications.
Required Qualifications
Applicants must have:
- A Ph.D. in ecology, evolutionary biology, genetics, genomics, wildlife biology, or a related discipline
- Experience with molecular laboratory techniques
- Experience analysing transcriptomics data
- Strong scientific writing skills
- A record of publishing impactful peer-reviewed research articles in ecology, evolutionary biology, or conservation journals
- Willingness to work with samples obtained from invasive species management activities
Preferred Qualifications
Candidates with the following experience will receive strong consideration:
- Next-generation sequencing (NGS) library preparation
- RNA-seq workflow development
- Linux operating systems
- High-performance computing environments
- Reference transcriptome creation
- Conservation genomics
- Molecular ecology research
Research Environment and Mentorship
The postdoctoral researcher will work directly with Emily Fountain in a collaborative genomics laboratory focused on teamwork, scientific development, and mentorship. The researcher will also collaborate with Zach Peery and participate in activities within the Peery Lab. The research environment encourages:
- Interdisciplinary collaboration
- Knowledge sharing
- Professional development
- Community-focused science
- Engagement with conservation priorities
The project’s partnership with the Hoopa Valley Tribe provides an opportunity to contribute to research connecting genomics with Tribal natural resource priorities and community-informed conservation.
Salary and Benefits
The position offers:
- Annual salary of $70,000
- University benefits package
- Full-time research appointment
- Two-year employment period
- Potential extension depending on future funding
This opportunity is ideal for researchers interested in:
- Conservation genomics
- Wildlife molecular biology
- Environmental toxicology
- RNA sequencing technologies
- Population genetics
- Applied biodiversity management
The project offers valuable experience combining advanced genomic methods with real-world conservation challenges. The position will be based on-site at the University of Wisconsin–Madison.
Application Process
Interested candidates should submit the following materials:
- Current CV or resume
- Cover letter describing relevant qualifications and research experience
- Three professional references
- Applications should be sent to: Dr. Emily Fountain Email: efountain@wisc.edu
- Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.
- Priority will be given to applications submitted by: 30 June 2026
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the title of this postdoctoral position?
The position is Postdoctoral Research Associate: Avian Transcriptomics and Conservation at the University of Wisconsin–Madison.
2. What is the main research focus?
The project investigates how rodenticide exposure affects wild owls at the molecular level using transcriptomics, RNA sequencing, and conservation genomics approaches.
3. What species will be studied?
The research focuses on invasive barred owls (Strix varia) in California.
4. Is this a funded postdoctoral position?
Yes. The position provides a salary of $70,000 per year plus benefits.
5. How long is the appointment?
The appointment is for two years, with possible extension depending on additional funding.
6. What degree is required?
Applicants must hold a Ph.D. in ecology, evolutionary biology, genetics, genomics, wildlife biology, or a related field.
7. Is previous RNA-seq experience required?
Experience with transcriptomics data analysis and molecular laboratory techniques is required. Experience with NGS library preparation and reference transcriptomes is preferred.
8. Where is the position located?
The position is based on-site at the University of Wisconsin–Madison in Madison, Wisconsin, USA.
9. Can international researchers apply?
Qualified researchers who meet the position requirements may apply. Applicants should ensure they meet any applicable employment authorization requirements.
10. What documents are needed for application?
Applicants must submit a CV, cover letter, and contact information for three professional references.
11. When should applicants apply?
The official application deadline is 31 July 2026, but priority consideration will be given to applications received by 30 June 2026.
12. Who should applicants contact?
Applicants should contact: Dr. Emily Fountain Email: efountain@wisc.edu Website: https://peery.russell.wisc.edu/
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