Postdoctoral Associate – Department of Ecology, Evolution and Behavior – University of Minnesota, Saint Paul
A postdoctoral associate position is available in the lab of Dr. Jeannine Cavender-Bares at the University of Minnesota to investigate urban plant diversity. This is a large, collaborative project examining the extent to which similar management practices among homeowners in cities leads to homogenization in plant functional and phylogenetic diversity. It is part of a larger project examining ecosystem carbon and nitrogen dynamics in urban regions across six metropolitan regions funded by the NSF Macrosystems Biology Program. The position will involve collaboration among multiple labs (both within the University of Minnesota and the Carey Institute of Ecosystem Studies, USDA Forest Service, Florida International University, University of Vermont, Clark University, UC Irvine, Indiana University, Marine Biological Lab, and Arizone State). The postdoctoral associate will be responsible for analyzing functional trait information and conducting analyses of functional and phylogenetic diversity of yard communities across six metropolitan regions in the US. The post doctoral associate will be expected to submit manuscripts based on the research to peer-reviewed journals and to present the results at national and international scientific meetings. Candidates will require a strong analytical background and an ability to manage large data sets. Work will conducted be at the University of Minnesota campus in Saint Paul. Qualifications: Minimum qualifications include a Ph.D. degree in biology, ecology, systematics, bioinformatics or a related field, with demonstrated experience in data analysis, functional traits, demonstrated motivation and strong work habits, the ability to work independently as well as with a research group, and demonstrated ability to produce publications based on individual research. Preferred qualifications include extensive experience with assembling large phylogenies for ecological questions, phylogenetic analysis, experience measuring or analyzing functional traits, and experience successfully mentoring undergraduate students in research. Interested candidates should contact Jeannine Cavender-Bares, caven...@umn.edu, and may apply online at employment.umn.edu and search for requisition #178666. Please submit a curriculum vitae, statement of interest, and names of three references. Review of applications will begin July 15, 2012, with an anticipated start date in September or October, 2012 based on mutual convenience. University of Minnesota is an equal opportunity/Affirmative Action/equal access employer and especially encourages applications from minorities, women, veterans and persons with disabilities. The position is for two years. To learn more about the program, see: http://www.caryinstitute.org/EHUA/QH.html
