PostDoctoral Associate
Requisition Number:
69938
Location:
Boulder, Colorado
City
Boulder
State
Colorado
Employment Type:
Research Faculty
Schedule:
Full-Time
Date Posted:
06-Feb-2026
Job Summary
The laboratory of Fernando A Villanea in the Department of Anthropology at The University of Colorado Boulder is seeking applications for a postdoctoral scholar. The postdoc will have the opportunity to lead multiple population genetics and computational biology studies on Neanderthal and Denisovan ancestry in Indigenous and Latino American populations, through computational approaches. This includes mastering the existing computational architecture developed by the lab. Additional research project opportunities in human population genomics, in animal domestication, or in other areas based on individual interests, are also possible. For more information about our lab visit: https://www.villanealab.com/
CU is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. We are committed to creating a workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity, and we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.
Who We Are
The College of Arts and Sciences at CU Boulder is the intellectual core of the university, conducting research, scholarship, creative work, and education in more than 60 fields. Our research generates new knowledge, solving some of the world’s most critical problems.
The college leads nationally in undergraduate and graduate education in the natural sciences, social sciences, and arts and humanities, bringing extraordinary research and scholarship to our students, both in and out of the classroom.
What Your Key Responsibilities Will Be
Successful candidates will be expected to analyze ancient and modern genomic data, prepare and collaborate on manuscripts, mentor graduate and undergraduate students, and assist with grant preparation. There will also be opportunities for postdocs to develop their own research projects and apply for grants. The scholar’s duties will be 100% research (no teaching or service load).
In addition to a demonstrated record of publication, the ideal candidate will have expertise with population genetics/computational biology and interest in applying these techniques to the study of human evolution. Candidates with genomics/bioinformatics expertise and other computational biology experience will also be considered. This position comes with a salary following NSF pay scales, university benefits, and funding for research/conference travel. The position is funded for three years, with annual renewal, and a possibility of continuing the position pending funding availability.
What You Should Know
The position will start between May and August 2026. A qualified candidate must hold a Ph.D. degree or have completed all of the requirements for a Ph.D. by the time of appointment.
What We Can Offer
Base salary for this position is $55,000 on a 12 month contract, plus a yearly 3.2% cost of living raise if renewed.
Benefits
At the University of Colorado Boulder, we are committed to supporting the holistic health and well-being of our employees. Our comprehensive benefits package includes medical, dental, and retirement plans; generous paid time off; tuition assistance for you and your dependents; and an ECO Pass for local transit. As one of Boulder County’s largest employers, CU Boulder offers an inspiring academic community and access to world-class outdoor recreation. Explore additional perks and programs through the CU Advantage program.
Be Statements
Be creative. Be impactful. Be Boulder.
What We Require
Applicants should have a Ph.D. in anthropology, genetics, evolutionary biology, or a related field with knowledge of population genetics. Applicants should have some experience with analyzing genomic data.
What We Would Like You to Have
Preference will be given to individuals with experience using computational clusters for data analysis, experience with ancient DNA or large human genomic datasets, and experience programming in python or R.
Strong candidates will be able to work independently, have effective oral and written communication skills, and be able to collaborate with and mentor both undergraduate and graduate students.
Special Instructions
To apply, please submit the following materials:
- A cover letter describing relevant research experience and motivation, as well as interest for current position.
- A curriculum vitae (CV).
- Contact information (telephone number and email address) of three people who can be contacted for letters of reference.
- Up to three of your publications.
Applications submitted by April 1, 2026 will receive full consideration. The position will remain open until filled.
Note: Application materials will not be accepted via email. For consideration, please apply through CU Boulder Jobs.
In compliance with the Colorado Job Application Fairness Act, in any materials you submit, you may redact or remove age-identifying information such as age, date of birth, or dates of school attendance or graduation. You will not be penalized for redacting or removing this information.
Posting Contact Information
Posting Contact Name: Fernando A Villanea
Posting Contact Email: fevi4829@colorado.edu