Post-doctoral Associate – Evolutionary Genomics of Invasive Plants Job Vacancy in UAE Abdu Dhabi
The Center for Genomics and Systems Biology (CGSB) at New York University Abu Dhabi is recruiting a Post-doctoral Associate to join an exciting research program focused on adaptive evolution in invasive species. This two-year, renewable position offers a unique opportunity to investigate the mesquite tree (Prosopis sp.) as a model for evolutionary studies using multi-omics data and field-based approaches across global landscapes.
Job Location: Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Job Industry: Higher Education / Genomics Research
Job Function: Evolutionary Biology & Plant Genomics
Salary: Competitive with tax-free benefits
Gender: Any
Candidate Nationality: Any
Candidate Current Location: Any
Job Type: Full-time
What Does a Post-doctoral Researcher in Evolutionary Genomics Do?
The role supports research led by Prof. Stephane Boissinot and focuses on exploring the genetic, ecological, and evolutionary mechanisms that drive adaptation in invasive mesquite populations. The successful candidate will combine genomics, transcriptomics, metabolomics, and fieldwork to analyze genetic diversity, hybridization, and genotype-phenotype relationships across native and invasive habitats.
What Are the Key Responsibilities?
- Conduct genomic and transcriptomic analyses of mesquite populations
- Explore population structure, demography, and adaptive hybridization events
- Link genotypes to phenotypes across diverse ecological zones
- Coordinate fieldwork in native (Central/South America) and invasive regions (Middle East, Africa, South Asia)
- Process and analyze large-scale multi-omics datasets
- Publish findings in peer-reviewed journals and present at global conferences
- Mentor students and contribute to collaborative lab projects
- Manage project tasks and assist with budget oversight for fieldwork and lab work
What Skills Are Needed for a Post-doctoral Researcher in Abu Dhabi?
Education:
- PhD in Biology, Evolutionary Genomics, Plant Sciences, or a related field
Experience:
- Proven research in evolutionary biology, population genetics, or plant genomics
- Experience with omics technologies (genomics, metabolomics, transcriptomics)
- Prior work with plant systems is required
- First-author publications in peer-reviewed journals
- Field research experience and interest in travel to diverse regions
Skills:
- Strong data analysis and bioinformatics skills
- Ability to coordinate international fieldwork and sample collection
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
- Organizational skills for multitasking across concurrent research projects
- Desire to collaborate in a diverse, international team setting
What Benefits Come with This Position?
- Tax-free, competitive salary
- Housing allowance and educational subsidies for dependents
- Medical insurance and annual home-leave travel
- World-class research facilities with access to advanced core technologies
- Mentorship and collaboration across NYU’s global network
- Opportunity to conduct globally relevant, high-impact evolutionary research
About the Company
The Center for Genomics and Systems Biology (CGSB) at NYU Abu Dhabi is a leading research hub for life sciences in the UAE. It supports interdisciplinary research across evolutionary biology, systems genomics, and bioinformatics, working in close collaboration with its sister center in New York.
Researchers at CGSB are immersed in a vibrant environment that fosters discovery, innovation, and international collaboration across a wide spectrum of genomic and evolutionary studies.
To apply, submit a 1–2-page cover letter responding to the role’s qualifications, a CV, a 1-page research interest statement, names of three references, and a transcript—all in PDF format—via Interfolio. The application deadline is Thursday, May 1, 2025, at 23:59 EST. For questions, email stephane.boissinot
