Posting Expiry
Academic
Job Category
Faculty Non Bargaining
Job Title
Postdoctoral Fellow in Eelgrass Population Genomics
Department
Research | Todesco | Michael Smith Laboratories | Faculty of Science (Marco Todesco)
Posting End Date
May 30, 2026
Note: Applications will be accepted until 11:59 PM on the Posting End Date.
Job End Date
June 30, 2028
The expected pay for this position is $70,000 per year.
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.
Project
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
Candidate
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.
Application process
Interested applicants should submit a CV and cover letter that details their experience and contact details for 3 references. Applications should be submitted to https://ubc.wd10.myworkdayjobs.com/ubcfacultyjobs/job/UBC-Vancouver-Campus---Vancouver-BC-Canada/Postdoctoral-Fellow-in-Eelgrass-Population-Genomics_JR24303 no later than the posting date. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.
Opportunity
The PDF will join the Michael Smith Laboratories, one of Canada’s premier research institutes, and will interact with leading scientists in genomics, ecology, evolutionary biology, and molecular biology. The position is located on UBC’s Vancouver campus, in a city renowned for its exceptional quality of life, natural beauty, and mild climate.
Salary is $70,000 CAD per year, plus benefits, and may increase with fellowship awards.
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.
How to apply?
Applicants should submit enquires/applications at this website and refer to reference number PDFO-59157.
Desired start date: 01 Jul 2026
Duration: Fixed term / Temporary
Contract Type: Full Time
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, Metis, Inuit, or Indigenous person.