Position Summary

The Barrick lab (http://barricklab.org) at Michigan State University is seeking a Research Associate (Postdoc) to work on projects related to the evolution of bacterial populations. This position will focus on: (1) sustaining the long-term evolution experiment with E. coli; (2) employing and refining existing methods to measure phenotypic and genomic changes in this and other similar experiments; and (3) developing new computational tools to analyze and simulate the dynamics of phenotypic and genomic evolution in bacteria. As time allows, this work will include opportunities to engage in other projects related to microbial evolution, ecology, and genomics in the Barrick lab. 

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Required Degree

Doctorate

Minimum Requirements

Ph.D. in Microbiology, Evolutionary Biology, Integrative Biology or related field.

Desired Qualifications

Desired qualifications include experience with: propagating bacteria; managing strain collections (including maintaining databases, securing MTAs, and sharing materials); analyzing data and writing scientific papers; developing software to simulate microbial population dynamics; working with and/or supervising work by graduate trainees and undergraduate students; maintaining lab equipment and ordering supplies; and helping to oversee laboratory safety. Priority will be given to candidates with demonstrated expertise in team science, microbiological methods, computer programming, and managing databases and strain collections.

Required Application Materials

Please submit a cover letter describing your background, research skills and career goals, a CV, and contact information for three references.

Special Instructions

Some duties in this position may involve occasional lifting, carrying, pushing or pulling less than 25 pounds.

Review of Applications Begins On

09/19/2025

Website

https://mgi.natsci.msu.edu

MSU Statement

Michigan State University has been advancing the common good with uncommon will for more than 160 years. One of the top research universities in the world, MSU pushes the boundaries of discovery and forges enduring partnerships to solve the most pressing global challenges while providing life-changing opportunities to a diverse and inclusive academic community through more than 200 programs of study in 17 degree-granting colleges.