Postdoctoral fellow sought for conservation genetic study of an endangered Pacific island bird

Postdoctoral fellow sought for conservation genetic study of an endangered Pacific island bird. The yayaguak (Mariana swiftlet, Aerodramus bartschi) is a small cave-dwelling swiftlet from the Mariana Islands now found on only 4 islands, and is restricted to 3 caves on Guam. A molecular genetic study of the species is needed to understand the level of genetic isolation among different cave colonies and evaluate evidence of inbreeding. The successful candidate will sequence the genomes of 100-200 individual birds from multiple caves to assess genetic relationships and diversity. In addition, we wish to develop and validate low-impact genetic mark-recapture methods for monitoring swiftlet populations. The candidate will develop a high throughput approach (e.g., ddRAD) to identify individuals from feathers collected below roosting sites and assist in developing models to translate this genetic sampling approach into tools for estimating abundance, survival, recruitment, and gene flow. This genetic approach will be compared with on-going field studies of mark-recapture banding, radio telemetry tracking, and productivity to validate results. This position is particularly valuable to those interested in combining molecular genetic skills with direct conservation applications of research, and the candidate will work with land managers to help them understand the results of their research. Required qualifications include: a PhD in population genetics, conservation biology, integrative biology, or equivalent field; strong communication (verbal and written) and organizational skills; positive attitude and desire to work as part of a diverse research team; expertise in genomics and its applications in ecological and conservation studies; experience generating and analyzing large datasets, including whole genome sequencing and other methods such as RAD sequencing. Additional skills desired include fluency in R and Python/Perl. Funding is for 1 year with a salary of ~$69,000/yr (depending on experience). Laboratory work will be conducted in the USGS Pacific Island Ecosystems Research Center’s molecular laboratory on Hawai‘i Island, but partial remote work during the fellowship is possible. Preferred candidates can start by early summer 2024. To apply, send a cover letter (2 pages max), a CV, and names and contact information of three references to Eben Paxton, Research Ecologist, USGS Pacific Island Ecosystems Research Center (epaxton@usgs.gov).