Postdoctoral Scholar - Majoris Lab

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POSITION SPECIFICS

A postdoctoral position is available at The Pennsylvania State University to study the relationship between larval traits and gene expression in coral reef fishes, under the supervision of Dr. John Majoris. The Majoris Marine Ecology & Aquaculture Lab integrates experimental aquaculture systems, larval phenotyping, and molecular approaches to understand how environmental conditions shape development and dispersal in marine organisms.

The successful candidate will lead the analysis of an RNA-seq dataset focused on clownfish, examining links between larval phenotypes and underlying gene expression. The successful candidate will develop and implement RNA-seq analysis pipelines, including quality control and preprocessing of sequencing data, de novo transcriptome assembly and annotation, read alignment, expression quantification, and differential gene expression analyses across treatment groups. Experience with functional annotation, gene ontology enrichment, and linking gene expression patterns to phenotypic variation is strongly preferred.

The dataset is part of a collaborative research project lead by Dr. Majoris and includes PIs at Boston University and King Abdullah University of Science and Technology. In addition to leading this core project with input from this collaborative team, the postdoctoral scholar will have opportunities to develop independent research questions, pursue funding opportunities, contribute to ongoing projects in the lab, and mentor graduate students. This includes training students in RNA extraction techniques and transcriptomics analysis pipelines. The postdoc will be expected to lead manuscript preparation and publication of results.

A Ph.D. in Biology, Marine Science, Ecology, Evolutionary Biology, Bioinformatics, or a related field is required. Strong candidates will have demonstrated experience in RNA-seq analysis, transcriptome assembly, and statistical analysis (e.g., R), as well as a record of scientific writing and publication.

Applications must be submitted electronically and include:

1. A 1 page cover letter describing research interests and experience relevant to the position

2. Curriculum vitae (including names and contact information for 3 referees)

For further information, please contact Dr. John Majoris at jxm983@psu.edu. Review of applications will begin May 1st, 2026 and continue until the position is filled.

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