Senior Postdoc Opportunity
In the Human Evolutionary Genomics Unit, we use the genomes of Neandertals and Denisovans, the closest evolutionary relatives of present-day humans, to identify genomic variants that are unique to modern humans or to the archaic humans. We experimentally introduce such variants into the genomes of cells and mice to study their functional effects. We also use data from biobanks and genome-wide association studies to learn how archaic and modern human variants differ in their effects. An ultimate goal is to understand aspects of why modern humans developed complex cultures and technology on a scale far exceeding that of other hominins. Our projects are conducted in collaboration with closely affiliated groups in Germany, Sweden, and Japan. OIST provides generous research funding, excellent core facilities, as well as a vibrant scientific environment.
We are looking for a senior postdoc or staff scientist who is interested in working on these questions. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to mentor junior members of the groups and over time develop his/her own projects.
We invite applicants to submit CVs, a motivation letter, and a short essay describing a project they might want to pursue at OIST by November 30, 2025.
We intend to invite prospective candidates to a two-day symposium at OIST March 23-24, 2026. Questions and applications can be addressed to Svante Pääbo (email: paabo[at]eva.mpg.de).
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Application Documents
· Motivation letter
· Curriculum vitae
· Short essay including a research plan at OIST
How to Apply
Apply by submitting your application documents to: chie.narai[at]oist.jp
Deadline: 30 November 2025
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Compensation and Benefits
Expected Annual Salary for Staff Scientist: 5.0M – 7.5M yen
In accordance with the OIST Employee Compensation Regulations
Note: This amount represents the expected annual salary range, which will be determined based on the candite’s experience, skills and background in accordance with the OIST Employee Compensation Regulations.
Benefits
· Relocation, housing and commuting allowances
· Annual paid leave and summer holidays · Health insurance (Private School Mutual Aid)
· Welfare pension insurance
· Worker's accident compensation insurance
· Access to Child Development Center · Access to Schooling Options · Language Education
· Resource Center (Daily Life Support in Okinawa)