Postdoctoral Scholar-Fixed Term East Lansing, Michigan, United States Integrative Biology 10032920 Area of Interest: Research/Scientific Full Time/Part Time: Full Time (90-100%) Group: Fixed Term Academic Staff Union/Non-Union: Non-Union Faculty/Academic Staff Opening on: Sep 3 2026 Closing at: Sep 3 2028 - 23:55 EDT Salary Commensurate with Experience College Of Natural Science 1161736 Position Summary Research
focus The postdoctoral associate will join a collaborative research program investigating the molecular, biochemical, and physiological bases of avian plumage coloration. Bright plumage colors are among the most striking features of birds and often play important roles in mate choice, competition, and social signaling by conveying information about an individual’s condition. Yet the mechanisms that link ornament
expression to physiology and condition remain incompletely understood. The Toomey Lab works to decipher these connections by combining molecular biology, biochemistry, pigment analysis, functional assays, genomics, and comparative and organismal approaches. Roles, responsibilities, and expectations This is primarily a research appointment. Depending on the candidate’s background and the direction of the project,
responsibilities will include: Design, execute, troubleshoot, and interpret experiments on pigment-metabolism pathways using biochemical and molecular approaches. Conduct heterologous expression and functional characterization of candidate genes. Perform pigment extraction and analysis using chromatography. Develop, optimize, and document new experimental assays. Carry out comparative genomic and/or transcriptomic
analyses. Characterize gene expression and protein localization. Integrate molecular and biochemical findings with organismal and evolutionary questions. Lead the analysis, writing, and submission of manuscripts arising from the funded project, and present findings at national and international meetings. Mentor undergraduate researchers and collaborate with graduate students, staff, and collaborators at MSU and
partner institutions. Contribute to laboratory operations, including safety and regulatory compliance, protocol documentation, reagent and equipment management, and data stewardship. Develop complementary independent research directions and contribute to grant and fellowship proposals. Equal Employment Opportunity Statement All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race,
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