Research Associate - Biology

About the Role

The Department of Biology in the College of Letters and Sciences at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater seeks a postdoctoral fellow in developmental biology, cell biology, physiology, or molecular genetics beginning August 2026. This is a National Science Foundation funded position with responsibilities for research (75%) and teaching and mentoring undergraduate students (25%).

Research Focus

This position studies circadian gene regulation of metabolism and gene expression during dorsal mesoderm specification in Xenopus laevis (RUI # 2523434). The project extends preliminary findings that circadian genes (bmal1 and rev-erba) impact the metabolic shift that occurs during dorsal mesoderm specification. A variety of embryological and molecular genetic approaches are used.

Training and Professional Development

The candidate will be trained in relevant techniques including genome editing using CRISPR-Cas9, luciferase-based assay systems, RNA-Seq, bioinformatics, microinjection, and microdissection of Xenopus embryos. The candidate will also receive training in pedagogical techniques by participating in workshops and programs at UWW as well as one-on-one mentoring by the PI. The PI will support career goals in the form of publication of results, sharing of reagents and resources, transgenic lines, support for writing grant proposals, and attendance at professional meetings.

Responsibilities

• Teaching responsibilities include introductory biology lecture and lab courses and developmental biology
• Research expectations include supporting the PI's grant research, publication of results, mentoring undergraduate research students, and writing grant proposals
• All students, faculty, and staff are required to ensure their materials are digitally accessible and utilize standard technology platforms supported by UW-Whitewater, including Navigate, Canvas, and Microsoft Office applications – including Outlook for university email communications and scheduling

Department Information

The Biology department at the University of Wisconsin–Whitewater offers Bachelor's degrees in Biology, with emphases in five areas: Cell/Physiology; Ecology, Evolution, and Behavior; Honors; Marine Biology and Freshwater Ecology; and Pre-Biomedical Professions. The Biology department has more than 300 majors and ~30 minors. The department also serves the University by offering several general education courses and supporting the pre-health professions certificates in dental, medical, physician's assistant, optometry, and veterinary medicine. The department is particularly supportive of undergraduate research with dedicated research labs for each faculty member, and many students have presented their work at national and regional meetings.

Pay

Well-qualified candidates can expect a starting annual salary of $45,000 - $50,000 commensurate with the candidate's education, related experience, and qualifications.

Benefits

UW System employees receive an excellent benefit package. To learn more about the UW System's comprehensive benefit package, review the UW System Employee Benefits Brochure.

Required Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Biology is required. ABD candidates may apply but must have their degree completed by the contract start date in August 2026; if not, they will be hired on a one-year contract with the understanding that their degree will be completed before January 2027
• Demonstrated interest in teaching at the undergraduate level
• Ability to effectively communicate complex information to diverse audiences, both verbally and in writing
• Ability to work effectively both independently and collaboratively with a team

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in developmental biology, cell biology, physiology, or molecular genetics is preferred
• Experience in RNA-Seq, CRISPR-Cas9, and bioinformatics is helpful but not required

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Ability to interact respectfully with people with diverse socioeconomic, cultural and ethnic backgrounds
• Willingness and ability to be an active participant in following applicable safety rules and regulations including necessary training and drills

How To Apply

Only complete application packages will be considered. This includes online submission of the following documents:

• Cover letter/letter of interest
• Statement of teaching philosophy
• Statement outlining experiences working with undergraduate researchers
• Curriculum Vitae
• Names and contact information for three professional references (letters of recommendation may be solicited at a later time)
• Copies of unofficial graduate transcripts (Official transcripts will be required if offered the position)

Contact Information

If you have questions regarding this recruitment or if you are unable to complete the application online due to a disability or system problem, please contact us at (262) 472-1024 or hr@uww.edu.

For questions regarding this position, please contact Search Committee Chair, Amber Kammeraad at kammeraa@uww.edu or 262.472.1092.

Application Deadline

Applications received by September 19th, 2026 are ensured full consideration. Applications received after that date may be given consideration at the discretion of the search committee. The most qualified applicants will be invited to participate in the next step of the selection process.