Position Description: The Kukekova Lab at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign invites applications for a postdoctoral position in Canine Behavior Genetics. We seek a highly motivated and collaborative individual with strong background in bioinformatics to join a project focused on the genetic analysis of evolved neuroanatomical and behavioral phenotypes in populations of selectively-bred working dogs. The position provides opportunities for interdisciplinary training in genomics, neurobiology, and animal behavior through collaborations with the Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology and external partners.
 
The project is a collaboration with the Hecht Lab at Harvard University. A partnered postdoctoral position in canine evolutionary neuroscience is also available in the Hecht Lab, and we anticipate opportunities for cross-training and interdisciplinary collaboration.
 
This is a one-year position, expected to begin in fall 2026, with possibility of renewal dependent upon adequate funding and satisfactory performance. The postdoctoral position will be funded through a 4-year grant from Mae Philanthropies.
 
Basic Qualifications: A doctoral degree is required for this position. Desired qualifications include experience in mammalian genomics, coding, the whole genome sequencing data analysis, and genome wide association studies.
 
Location: Urbana, IL.  Department of Animal Sciences, College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences (ACES), University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.
 
Special Instructions: Please submit a letter of interest, an updated CV, and the names of three references. These letters should be from people who are familiar with your research and can assess your potential as a postdoctoral researcher. Evaluation will begin at the time the advertisement is placed and will continue until the position is filled.
 
Contact Information: Professor Anna Kukekova
 
Contact Email: avk@illinois.edu
 
Salary Range: $62,000-65,000; Pay offered to the selected candidate is dependent on factors such as years of experience, training or qualification, field of scholarship, and accomplishments in the field.

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