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Director Phylogenetics Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Field Museum

Postdoctoral Research Scientist

Chicago, IL · On-site

$61K/yr

Experience with genomic data analysis, phylogenetics, and working in Linux-based environments is ... The position has no direct supervisory responsibilities. Work Hours and Shift: 35 hours Hybrid ...

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Director Phylogenetics information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Director of Phylogenetics, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Director of Phylogenetics, you need expertise in evolutionary biology, genomics, and advanced statistical methods, typically supported by a Ph.D. in a related field and significant research experience. Proficiency with bioinformatics tools, phylogenetic software (e.g., BEAST, RAxML), and programming languages such as Python or R is essential. Strong leadership, project management, and communication skills are crucial for guiding research teams and collaborating with multidisciplinary partners. These competencies ensure high-quality scientific output, effective team management, and impactful contributions to evolutionary research.

What is the difference between Director Phylogenetics vs Senior Phylogenetic Scientist?

AspectDirector PhylogeneticsSenior Phylogenetic Scientist
Required CredentialsPhD in Biology, Genetics, or related field; extensive experience in phylogeneticsPhD or Master’s in relevant field; strong background in phylogenetics and bioinformatics
Work EnvironmentLeadership role overseeing teams, strategic planning, project managementResearch-focused, hands-on analysis, data interpretation
Employer & Industry UsageBiotech, pharma, academia, research institutionsResearch labs, biotech companies, academic research

The main difference is that the Director Phylogenetics leads teams and manages projects, focusing on strategy and oversight, while the Senior Phylogenetic Scientist is primarily involved in hands-on research and data analysis. Both roles require advanced degrees and expertise in phylogenetics, but their responsibilities and focus areas differ significantly.

What does a Director of Phylogenetics do?

A Director of Phylogenetics oversees research and projects related to the evolutionary relationships among organisms, typically using genetic data. They lead teams in analyzing DNA or protein sequences to construct phylogenetic trees and develop methodologies for evolutionary studies. This role often includes managing research initiatives, collaborating with other scientists, ensuring data quality, and publishing findings. The director may also contribute to strategic planning, grant writing, and mentoring junior researchers in the field.

What are some common challenges faced by a Director of Phylogenetics when managing multidisciplinary research teams?

As a Director of Phylogenetics, one of the main challenges is coordinating among team members with diverse backgrounds, such as molecular biologists, computational scientists, and field researchers. Ensuring clear communication and aligning on research goals can require strong leadership and project management skills. Additionally, integrating large datasets and keeping up with rapidly evolving analytical methods can be demanding. Directors must also balance administrative duties with scientific direction to maintain project momentum and foster innovation within the team.
What are the most commonly searched types of Phylogenetics jobs? The most popular types of Phylogenetics jobs are:
Director Phylogenetics jobs near you
Infographic showing various Director Phylogenetics job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 100% Hybrid job distribution.
Postdoctoral Research Scientist

Postdoctoral Research Scientist

Field Museum

Chicago, IL • On-site

$61K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Position: Postdoctoral Research Scientist
FLSA Status: Exempt
Department: Negaunee Integrative Research
Our Mission: Since the 1893 World Columbian Exposition, our organization has aimed to connect people to the natural environment and human history.
Join our team and enjoy a benefits package that truly supports your well-being and lifestyle:
  • Comprehensive Health Coverage: Including medical, dental, vision plans, and even pet insurance.
  • Financial Security: Life and disability benefits plus a 403(b) savings plan to help you plan for the future.
  • Work-Life Balance: Generous paid time off, paid sick leave, and paid holidays to ensure you have time to recharge and spend with loved ones.
  • Exclusive Perks: Enjoy great employee discounts and complimentary general admission to participating cultural institutions.

We're dedicated to enhancing your life both at work and beyond!
The Grainger Bioinformatics Center in the Science and Education Department at The Field Museum is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Scientist to conduct phylogenomic research on lichens. This is a full-time, 2-year position focused on RADseq and target enrichment datasets to investigate evolutionary relationships, phylogenetics, and species delimitation. Ongoing projects and datasets are available, enabling rapid progress toward publication.
The successful candidate will work on population genomic and phylogenetic analyses using RADseq and target enrichment data. Responsibilities include SNP data processing, population structure analyses, phylogenetic inference, and species delimitation using modern statistical and computational approaches. Analyses will be conducted primarily in R and Python.
Applicants should have a strong background in bioinformatics, computational biology, evolutionary biology, or a related field. Experience with genomic data analysis, phylogenetics, and working in Linux-based environments is required. Familiarity with population genomics tools and coalescent-based methods is preferred.
The postdoctoral researcher will contribute to manuscript preparation, with the expectation of leading at least one first-author publication and collaborating on additional research projects. The position includes mentorship responsibilities, including training undergraduate students from underrepresented groups in STEM and contributing to a collaborative, interdisciplinary research environment.
This position is based on-site at The Field Museum in Chicago, with an anticipated start date of August 10th. Mentorship will follow an established Postdoctoral Mentoring Plan.
Supervision Received:
Receives general supervision byDirector, Phylogenomic Studies, Grainger Bioinformatics Center
Supervision Exercised:
The position has no direct supervisory responsibilities.
Work Hours and Shift:
35 hours
Hybrid Eligibility:
Not eligible
Location:
1400 S. DuSable Lake Shore Dr. Chicago, IL 60605
Union Representation: This position is represented by Field Museum Workers' United, AFSCME Council 31, AFL-CIO.
Pay Range: $61,461/Annually
PLEASE READ: *When you apply for multiple positions, please make sure to delete your previous resume and cover letter and upload the latest version of your resume and cover letter that is relevant to the job you are applying for, every time you apply. This will help our hiring managers access the correct documents. Please note that removing the resume and cover letter will not delete any previously submitted resumes and cover letters.
The Field Museum is an equal-opportunity employer. We are committed to providing a workplace free from discrimination, embracing diversity, and fostering mutual respect. We value the unique perspectives each team member brings, which empowers our ability to innovate and overcome challenges.
At the Field Museum, we are dedicated to making our career website and recruitment process accessible to everyone. If you encounter any difficulty when using or accessing our online application, or if you need a reasonable accommodation for completing your application, participating in interviews, or any other part of the selection process, please reach out to us at recruitment@fieldmuseum.org.

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