Postdoctoral Fellow in Evolutionary Genetics and Neurobiology

The Behrman Lab in the Department of Biological Sciences at Dartmouth College invites applications for a postdoctoral researcher with expertise in molecular genetics or neuroscience.

Our research investigates the mechanisms underlying adaptation to environmental variation. We integrate evolutionary genetics, functional genomics, physiology, and organismal biology to understand how genetic and neural variation translate into phenotypic and behavioral differences in natural populations. We are particularly interested in connecting molecular and neural mechanisms to whole-organism function and evolutionary processes.

We seek a highly motivated scientist with strong molecular and/or neurobiological expertise who is excited about addressing evolutionary and physiological questions that span levels of biological organization. The person in this position will develop an independent research program aligned with the lab’s integrative framework while contributing to ongoing collaborative projects. We welcome applicants with strengths in:

• Molecular biology (e.g., gene expression analysis, CRISPR/editing, functional genomics)
• Neurobiology (e.g., neural circuitry, neurogenetics, behavioral assays, neurophysiology)
• Integrative approaches that link genotype to neural and/or molecular mechanisms to organismal phenotype

This position is ideal for qualified candidates interested in building a research program that bridges mechanistic and evolutionary biology. Responsibilities include:

• Design and lead independent research projects
• Integrate multi-level datasets (e.g., genomic, neural, physiological, behavioral)
• Publish findings in peer-reviewed journals
• Mentor students and contribute to a collaborative lab environment
• Participate in grant development and fellowship applications

This position is full-time, non-remote, in-residence at Dartmouth in Hanover, NH, with start date as early as June 1, 2026. The appointment will be for one year with opportunity to renew annually.

Intellectual community:

The Behrman Lab is housed in the Department of Biological Sciences and is actively engaged in three interdepartmental programs that connect across the School of Arts and Sciences, the Geisel School of Medicine, and the Thayer School of Engineering: Cell and Molecular Biology, Integrative Neuroscience at Dartmouth and Ecology, Evolution, Environment and Society. Affiliation with these programs provides a vibrant intellectual community, with access to interdisciplinary collaborations, seminar series, reading groups, and annual retreats. Dartmouth also offers extensive shared research infrastructure, including the Molecular Tools and Molecular Interactions Imaging Core, Genomics Core, and the Imaging Facility, providing broad support for molecular, genetic, and imaging-based research.

Postdoc specific resources:

Postdoctoral scholars at Dartmouth benefit from institutional support through the Guarini School of Graduate and Advanced Studies, including their community initiatives. In addition to campus-wide professional development opportunities-including grant writing through GrantGPS and pedagogy through Dartmouth Center for the Advancement of Learning -postdocs have access to programing tailored specifically to their career stage. Postdocs are also supported by the Dartmouth Postdoc Society, which fosters community building, peer mentoring, and professional networking across disciplines.

Dartmouth is committed to academic excellence and encourages the open exchange of ideas within a culture of mutual respect. Dartmouth welcomes people with different backgrounds, life experiences, and perspectives and believes that diversity in all its forms enhances academic excellence. Applicants should address in their cover letter how their research, teaching, service, and/or life experiences prepare them to serve Dartmouth’s commitment to academic excellence in an environment that is welcoming to all.

• PhD in biology, neuroscience, genetics, molecular biology, or related field or a closely related field, or ABD with degree received by the start date.
• Strong publication record
• Demonstrated expertise in molecular or neurobiological techniques
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively
• Excellent communication skills

This position is eligible for J-1 visa sponsorship for eligible candidates. Employment is contingent on authorization to work in the United States.

Please submit all materials electronically through Interfolio:

1. A cover letter describing your research interests and career goals, and addressing all relevant aspects of the position description;
2. Curriculum vitae, including names and contact information for three references;
3. Writing sample consisting of a scientific manuscript (published, in press, or preprint preferred).

Review of applications will begin March 15, 2026 and will continue until the position is filled. Recommendation letters will be requested only for finalists. For questions about the position, please contact Professor Emily Behrman at Emily.L.Behrman@dartmouth.edu.