Postdoctoral Fellow in Eelgrass Population Genomics Full-time

Postdoctoral Fellow In Eelgrass Population Genomics

The Todesco lab in the Michael Smith Laboratories at the University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada invites applications for a full-time postdoctoral research fellowship to work on a project investigating population genomics, adaptation, and conservation of eelgrass (Zostera marina). The successful candidate will join a collaborative project aimed at understanding genetic diversity, demographic history, and the impacts of environmental change on eelgrass populations in the James Bay and St. Lawrence River regions. The successful candidate will use population genomics approaches to assess genetic vulnerability and adaptive potential of eelgrass populations.

This project is co-led by Drs. Marco Todesco, Mary O'Connor (Department of Zoology), and Loren Rieseberg (Department of Botany), and is embedded within a long-standing network of eelgrass researchers, restoration practitioners, and coastal Eeyou communities in Eeyou Istchee. Eelgrass meadows occur along much of the North American coastline and are essential components of coastal ecosystems. They support biodiversity, improve water quality, contribute to fisheries productivity, and play a major role in carbon sequestration. Despite their importance, eelgrass habitats are increasingly threatened by climate change, pollution, and coastal development. Restoration efforts are urgently needed but often fail, partly because transplanted plants may not be genetically suited to their new environments.

Specific research activities include:

• Generating a genome assembly for a James Bay eelgrass individual and building an eelgrass pangenome
• Analyzing whole-genome resequencing data from hundreds of individuals to characterize patterns of diversity and demographic history
• Assessing genetic vulnerability across populations in the study regions
• Disseminating results to academic collaborators, community partners, and the broader scientific community

We are seeking a postdoctoral researcher with a strong background in population genetics, genomics, bioinformatics, plant genetics, or related fields. Candidates must hold a PhD in Population Genetics, Genomics, Bioinformatics, Plant Genetics, or similar fields with an excellent publication record. The candidate must be able to work well both independently and in a team environment. We are seeking a creative individual with great interpersonal skills and excellent communication, both written and verbal.

Interested applicants should submit a CV and cover letter that details their experience and contact details for 3 references. Applications should be submitted to the UBC Careers portal no later than the posting date. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.

The position is available July 1, 2026, with the start date is negotiable and will initially be for one year, with the possibility of extension depending on satisfactory performance and funding.

Equity and diversity are essential to academic excellence. An open and diverse community fosters the inclusion of voices that have been underrepresented or discouraged. We encourage applications from members of groups that have been marginalized on any grounds enumerated under the B.C. Human Rights Code, including sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, racialization, disability, political belief, religion, marital or family status, age, and/or status as a First Nation, Métis, Inuit, or Indigenous person. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority.