Posted 1mo ago

Postdoctoral Researcher (Statistical Phylogenetics)

@ Research Corporation of the University of Hawai‘i
Honolulu, Hawaii, United States
$6k-$7k/moOnsiteFull Time
Responsibilities:develops algorithms, implements software, mentors students
Requirements Summary:PhD in Statistics, Computer Science, Computational Biology or related field; 1-3 years in developing algorithms for evolutionary analysis; strong knowledge of statistical phylogenetics and HPC; proficient in C/C++.
Technical Tools Mentioned:C/C++, HPC, High-Performance Computing
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Job Description

CLOSING DATE:  March 21, 2026, or until filled. Job postings are removed from the RCUH Job Openings site once the recruitment process has ended. 

Regular, Full-Time, RCUH Non-Civil Service position with the Pacific Biosciences Research Center (PBRC), Pipes Laboratory, located on the University of Hawai'i at Manoa (UHM) in Honolulu, Hawai'i. Continuation of employment is dependent upon satisfactory work performance, program/operational needs, availability of funds, and compliance with applicable Federal/State laws.  

MONTHLY SALARY RANGE: $6,250 - $7,000/Mon.    

DUTIES:  Develops and implements novel statistical phylogenetic algorithms and high-performance computing software for analyzing ultra-large evolutionary trees. Focuses on advancing likelihood and Bayesian inference frameworks to solve complex problems in environmental DNA and wastewater surveillance, such as phylogenetic placement and ancestral state reconstruction. Engineers scalable, memory-efficient solutions in C/C++ to handle massive datasets. Prepares manuscripts for peer-reviewed journals, presents findings at conferences, and mentors students in computational best practices. 

PRIMARY QUALIFICATIONS: 
EDUCATION: PhD from an accredited college or university in Statistics, Computer Science, Computational Biology, or a related quantitative field. 
EXPERIENCE: One to three (1-3) years of experience in developing algorithms or statistical models for evolutionary analysis. 
KNOWLEDGE: Strong theoretical understanding of statistical phylogenetics, including substitution models, likelihood theory, Bayesian MCMC, and coalescent theory. Knowledge of graph algorithms and computational complexity regarding tree topology search. Familiarity with HPC environments. 
ABILITIES & SKILLS: Proven ability to independently design and implement mathematical models for evolutionary processes. Strong experience in debugging complex numerical optimization codes. Must be able to work independently, manage multiple tasks effectively, and troubleshoot complex software issues. Post-Offer/Employment Conditions: Must be able to complete the UH Title IX training within 30 days from date of hire, and re-certify annually. Must be able to complete the Workplace Violence Prevention training within 30 days from date of hire, and re-certify annually. Must be able to complete the UH Information Security Awareness Training (ISAT) within two (2) weeks from date of hire, and re-certify every twelve (12) months.  
PHYSICAL/MEDICAL DEMANDS: Ability to work at a computer for extended periods, performing tasks that require sustained focus, attention to detail, and precision.  
POLICY/REGULATORY REQUIREMENT: As a condition of employment, employee will be subject to all applicable RCUH policies, procedures, and trainings and, as applicable, subject to University of Hawai‘i's and/or business entity's policies, procedures, and trainings.  Violation of RCUH's, UH's, or business entity's policies and/or procedures or applicable State or Federal laws and/or regulations may lead to disciplinary action (including, but not limited to possible termination of employment, personal fines, civil and/or criminal penalties, etc.).  

SECONDARY QUALIFICATIONS:    
Experience writing production-level code is highly preferred. Expert-level proficiency in C/C++ (preferred). Demonstrated ability to write scientific papers independently. Strong verbal communication skills for presenting research at conferences, seminars, and lab meetings.

INQUIRIES:  Dr. Lenore Pipes, [email protected] (Oahu).

APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS: Please go to https://www.rcuh.com/opportunities/job-openings/. You must submit the following documents online to be considered for the position: 1) Cover Letter, 2) Resume, 3) List of Professional References, 4) Copy of Degree(s)/Unofficial or Official Transcript(s)/Certificate(s). All online applications must be submitted/received by the closing date (11:59 P.M. Hawai‘i Standard Time/RCUH receipt time) as stated on the job posting. If you do not have access to our system and the closing date is imminent, please send additional documents to [email protected]. If you have questions on the application process and/or need assistance, please call (808)956-7262 or (808)956-0872. Please visit https://www.rcuh.com/policies-forms-documents/benefits-at-a-glance.pdf for more information on RCUH’s Benefits for eligible employees.

RCUH’s mission is to support and enhance research, development and training in Hawai‘i, with a focus on the University of Hawai‘i. 

RCUH is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, marital status, reproductive health decision, citizenship, gender identity or expression, domestic or sexual violence victim status, military/veteran status, or other grounds protected under applicable federal and state laws, except as permitted by law.