Job Title: Postdoctoral Research Associate, Reed Noss Lab, University of Central Florida
Job type: Full-time temporary position Opportunity location: Central Florida Closing date: 1 Sept 2011 Opportunity description: A postdoctoral research position is available to join a team of researchers studying sea-level rise, land-use trends, and adaptation options in Florida. The primary goals for this project are to (1) conduct a statewide vulnerability assessment of species and natural communities in Florida threatened by sea-level rise and concurrent changes in land use; and (2) develop the foundation for a statewide biodiversity‐oriented adaptation strategy that will minimize losses of biodiversity and maintain ecosystem integrity in the face of these changes. We seek a postdoctoral researcher skilled in spatially-explicit habitat, niche, and population modeling to develop models of vulnerability and adaptation options for selected species and communities under a range of sea-level and land-use scenarios. Required Qualifications: A PhD in ecology, conservation biology, wildlife biology, or related field with emphasis on GIS-based modeling of habitats and populations. Experience using maximum entropy and other niche models, hierarchical Bayesian spatial models, resource selection functions, or other models of habitat suitability and quality. Experience with individual-based and patch-based spatially explicit population models (SEPMs) or other simulation models. Strong statistical background, including experience with information-theoretic and Bayesian approaches to model selection. Demonstrated ability to write and publish scientific reports and articles. At least a general knowledge of the natural history of Florida. Demonstrated personal commitment to conservation of biodiversity. Position: Position is funded for two years, with preferred starting date no later than January 2, 2012. Salary is $42,000-$45,000 per year, depending on qualifications, with typical postdoc benefits. Opportunities for raises and extension of appointment depend on success in grants and other fund-raising. The University of Central Florida is a major research institution and the second largest university (by enrollment) in the United States. We have an excellent PhD program in Conservation Biology. The University is located on the eastern fringe of Orlando, close to a connected system of conservation areas spanning over 500,000 acres, and is within 45 minutes driving time from the beach (Atlantic coast). To apply, send a single pdf file containing a cover letter summarizing professional research interest and experience, a CV, and contact information for three references to Dr. Reed Noss at reed.n...@ucf.edu and myra.n...@ucf.edu. Review of applications will begin immediately, with all applications received on or before 1 September 2011 guaranteed consideration.
