The Thom lab is dedicated to creating a welcoming environment for students and postdocs of all backgrounds to thrive in their academic paths. 

​

We currently have open positions for Ph.D. students and Postdocs!    

​

Postdoc candidates

We are recruiting one postdoctoral fellow to work on comparative genomics of Neotropical birds.

The main project aims to explore how ecological interactions between birds and army ants influence the evolution of associated phenotypic, physiological, and behavioral traits through the study of genomic landscapes. Specifically: We are developing a comparative genomic approach to track signatures of positive selection and accelerated evolution across the genome of army ant following birds and test for associations with multiple traits shared by unrelated taxa, such as the loss of sexual dimorphism, level of interspecific dominance and associated phenotypic characteristics, intraspecific sociality, spatial memory, and traits associated with preventing antagonistic interactions with army ants. We are also taking advantage of long-read sequencing technologies to explore the importance of structural variants in driving adaptive processes in our target group. Most of the data has been generated, and the candidate will start with a data set with high-quality (long read-based) genomes for a large number of antbirds. This is a good opportunity for candidates with previous experience with genomic tools who are interested in museum-based research. Besides the main study, the candidate will be encouraged to develop new projects according to the research conducted in the lab. 

 

If you are interested, don't hesitate to reach out. 

​

Apply here: https://lsu.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/LSU/job/B0009-MJ-Foster-Hall/Postdoctoral-Researcher_R00100975
 

​

​

Ph.D. candidates

I'm looking to recruit 1-2 students per academic year. I encourage potential candidates to go over our research program by exploring the research tab and reading recent pubs produced by the lab. We are currently working on many projects on which candidates will be welcome to take the lead for their Ph.D., but students will be encouraged to pursue their own research interests, ideas and projects. 

If you are interested in joining us, HERE you will find detailed information about the graduate program and how to apply. Before applying, email me with a brief description of your research interests, previous academic experiences, and why you are interested in joining the lab.

Please reach out if you have any questions.

​

​

​