How to Apply

Interested individuals should send a CV, a brief description of research accomplishments and future goals, and the names and contact information for 3 references to Regina Baucom by e-mail ([email protected]). Review of applications will start on March 6, 2026, and will continue until the position is filled. 

Job Summary

A postdoctoral position focusing on plant adaptation is available in the laboratory of Dr. Regina Baucom in the Department of Ecology & Evolutionary Biology at the University of Michigan. The Baucom Lab studies evolutionary ecology and genetics, typically using plant weeds as models. The successful candidate will have access to a vibrant intellectual community and state-of-the-art facilities in the new Biological Sciences Building at Michigan.

The postdoc will have the opportunity to work collaboratively with partnering laboratories at both the University of Georgia (UGA) and the University of Michigan (UM), with some travel to Athens, GA expected. This position is supported by two complementary projects: one focused on developing genetic and genomic tools for Ipomoea, and a second examining how plant-pollinator interactions respond to agricultural manipulations. The position would be ideal for scientists interested in evolutionary genetics in Ipomoea, alongside eco-evolutionary studies of agricultural manipulations, including pollinator interactions and floral trait variation. The anticipated start date for the postdoctoral researcher is fall 2026.

The lab is a part of the Department of Ecology & Evolutionary Biology at the University of Michigan, in Ann Arbor, MI. Lab members and I study plant adaptation from the lens of evolutionary ecology and genetics, typically using plant weeds/invasives as models. Some of the current themes in the lab include understanding both the maintenance of variation in invasive plant species and the genetic basis of adaptation to strong agents of selection. We are also studying rapid adaptation to global change using resurrection populations. Recent publications from the lab can be found here. I am committed to thoughtful, inclusive mentoring practices and regularly engage in culturally aware mentorship training.

Responsibilities*

The successful candidate for this position will be expected to carry out independent research relating to plant ecology/genetics. The project involves field work as well as lab work such as DNA isolation and genotyping via bioinformatics pipelines. There will also be the potential to develop additional projects building on the strengths, interests, and expertise of the successful candidate.
This position will also involve mentoring of undergraduate researchers in the lab.

Required Qualifications*

PhD (by start date) with experience in evolutionary genetics, evolutionary ecology, plant biology, or a related field.

Desired Qualifications*

Experience working with plants and/or genome sequencing/whole genome re-sequencing.

Modes of Work

Positions that are eligible for hybrid or mobile/remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time, and for any reason, throughout the course of employment. Learn more about the work modes.

Additional Information

Preference will be given to applicants who can start the beginning of fall 2026. Funding is available for two years but is contingent on satisfactory progress in year one. The anticipated starting salary for the position is $60,000 per year plus benefits.

Background Screening

The University of Michigan conducts background checks on all job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent offer and may use a third party administrator to conduct background checks.  Background checks are performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act.

Application Deadline

Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days.  The review and selection process may begin as early as the eighth day after posting. This opening may be removed from posting boards and filled anytime after the minimum posting period has ended.

U-M EEO Statement

The University of Michigan is an equal employment opportunity employer.