University of Puerto Rico: Postdoctoral Assistant Researcher in Spider Phylogeography and Phylogenomics The Ortiz Lab of Arthropod Evolution (OLAE) at the University of Puerto Rico–Río Piedras Campus (UPRRP) is seeking a Postdoctoral Assistant Researcher to participate in ongoing and new projects on spider phylogeography, phylogenomics, and evolution. The appointment will involve approximately 75% research and 25% teaching. The position is initially for one year, with the possibility of extension to a second year based on satisfactory progress and institutional approval. The preferred start date is September 1, 2026, or as soon as possible thereafter. Research environment and project The OLAE is a newly established research group focused on arachnid evolution, systematics, phylogeography, and biodiversity, with particular emphasis on Caribbean and Mediterranean spiders. The successful candidate will play a leading role in analyzing existing genome-wide ddRADseq datasets and completing manuscripts on the phylogeography, systematics and evolution of Zodarion ant-eating spiders, a highly specialized and diverse spider lineage. Initial research will focus on genomic datasets comparable to those used in previous studies, including: - Ortiz D, Pekár S, Dianat M. 2024. A consequential one-night stand: Episodic historical hybridization leads to mitochondrial takeover in sympatric desert ant-eating spiders. Molecular Phylogenetics and Evolution 199: 108167. - Ortiz D, Pekár S, Bilat J, Alvarez N. 2021. Poor performance of DNA barcoding and the impact of RAD loci filtering on the species delimitation of an Iberian ant-eating spider. Molecular Phylogenetics and Evolution 154: 106997. Potential lines of research include how historical, ecological, and environmental factors shaped the diversification, survival, adaptation, and distribution of ant-eating spiders across Mediterranean peninsulas. These regions experienced major environmental changes during the Pleistocene glaciations while also serving as important glacial refugia. The selected candidate will also contribute to the development of new projects on the phylogeography and evolution of Caribbean arachnids. These projects may involve fieldwork, specimen curation, DNA barcoding, genomic data generation, and phylogenomic analyses. Candidate profile We are looking for a highly motivated and independent researcher with strong experience in evolutionary biology, phylogenomics, phylogeography, and/or population genomics, and an interest in using highly diverse terrestrial invertebrates to address evolutionary and biogeographic questions. The position is especially suitable for a researcher who wants to further develop expertise in genomic data analysis, manuscript preparation, field-based biodiversity research, museum-associated work, and university teaching while building an independent research profile. Qualifications Required qualifications: - Ph.D. in Biology or a related field - Strong background in evolutionary biology, phylogenomics, phylogeography, and/or population genomics - Experience analyzing genome-wide datasets - Proficiency in bioinformatics and data analysis, especially using tools such as R, Python, and Unix/Linux environments - Relevant publication record in peer-reviewed journals - Experience with DNA isolation and DNA barcoding - Excellent written and verbal communication skills - Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team - Proficiency in English Additional desirable qualifications: - Experience with genomic library preparation, especially ddRADseq and/or UCEs - Experience with arachnids or other terrestrial arthropods - Experience with fieldwork and biodiversity collections - Spanish-language ability Responsibilities Research responsibilities will include: - Analyze genome-wide ddRADseq and UCE datasets of Mediterranean and Caribbean spiders - Lead or contribute to manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed journals - Participate in fieldwork and specimen-based research - Perform DNA isolation, DNA barcoding, and potentially genome-wide library preparation - Contribute to setting up the laboratory infrastructure and protocols of the newly established OLAE - Collaborate with members of the OLAE, the Department of Biology, and the Museum of Zoology of UPRRP - Present research findings at conferences, seminars, and other academic venues - Assist with grant writing, project coordination, and student mentoring Teaching responsibilities will include: - Contribute to undergraduate and/or graduate teaching in the Department of Biology, equivalent to approximately 25% workload, aligned with the candidate’s expertise and departmental needs Location The position is based at the University of Puerto Rico–Río Piedras Campus (UPRRP), in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Puerto Rico is a U.S. territory with a unique cultural identity, serving as a bridge between Hispanic, Caribbean, and North American cultural environments. The island is part of the Caribbean biodiversity hotspot and offers exceptional opportunities for research on tropical biodiversity, evolution, and conservation. The UPRRP is an R2 research institution accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. Puerto Rico is broadly bilingual in Spanish and English, although Spanish is the main language used in everyday life. The UPRRP is an Equal Employment and Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, ethnicity, color, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, or protected veteran status. Salary and benefits The position offers a salary of approximately US$62,000 per year, plus health insurance and standard UPR benefits. Work authorization Applicants must be U.S. citizens, permanent residents, or eligible to obtain U.S. work authorization. Visa sponsorship may be possible through the University of Puerto Rico, subject to institutional and federal requirements. Citizens of some countries are currently subject to entry restrictions to the U.S.: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/News/visas-news/suspension-of-visa-issuance-to-foreign-nationals-to-protect-the-security-of-the-united-states.html. Application materials Applicants should submit the following documents: 1. Cover letter describing research interests, relevant experience, and fit for the position 2. Curriculum vitae 3. Two representative publications 4. Contact information for three references Applications should be sent by email to: Dr. David Ortiz Email: d.ortiz@upr.edu Subject line: Application – OLAE Postdoc 2026 Review of applications Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. For full consideration, applications should be submitted by June 15, 2026. Applications received after this date may still be considered in exceptional cases, particularly from highly qualified and motivated candidates. The preferred starting date is September 1, 2026, with some flexibility depending on the selected applicant. Principal Investigator Dr. David Ortiz Director of the Museum of Zoology | Assistant Professor Department of Biology, College of Natural Sciences University of Puerto Rico–Río Piedras Campus https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=JV-atQsAAAAJ&hl=en Lab webpage: forthcoming (to subscribe/unsubscribe the EvolDir send mail to evoldir@evoldir.net)