A collaborative team of ecologists at the University of California, Riverside is seeking a post-doctoral scholar with strong interests in pedagogy, global change ecology, and conservation for a unique position funded by the University of California’s Innovative Learning Technology Initiative. The applicant will work alongside team members to develop two undergraduate online learning modules that focus on Ecology, Conservation, and Global Change Biology to 1) enhance knowledge of ecology and the interaction between natural ecosystems and human populations, and 2) expand access to high quality upper division instruction in ecology, conservation, and global change. Expansion of access to ecology and global change content is a stepping-stone towards providing future scientists, health professionals, and citizens the knowledge to confront projected environmental challenges. The expectations of the position include the development of topic-specific mini-lectures, dynamic content using multimedia and interactive technology, and real-time video conferencing to assess student progress on course activities such as data analyses, quantitative techniques, and research and management practices. Training and technical support will be available through collaboration with UCR’s Office of Academic Engagement and Information Technology Solutions. Strong candidates will have experience integrating quantitative skills, scientific writing and critical thinking skills into course curricula. Candidates must have received at least one higher-education degree in a Biology-related discipline, and have experience with innovative science education approaches/best practices in preparing students for future science careers, although a formal degree in science education is not necessary. The successful candidate must demonstrate excellence in teaching and a deep commitment to STEM education practices, with interest and ability to help Departmental faculty maintain and develop innovations in teaching methods and student engagement. Experience with online learning methods is not required but strongly preferred, as is experience teaching a full course.
The University of California, Riverside is a highly diverse and rapidly growing campus located in the historic city of Riverside, California. UCR is a world-class research university with an exceptionally diverse undergraduate student body. Its mission is explicitly linked to providing routes to educational success for underrepresented and first generation college students. A commitment to this mission is a preferred Qualification, and we especially encourage applications from individuals that are members of groups historically underrepresented in higher education. The campus is located within one hour of downtown Los Angeles, a city that provides world-class cultural opportunities. Riverside also provides easy access to numerous outdoor recreational areas, including forest, alpine, ocean, and desert environments. The position is available starting in Spring 2018 (exact start date is negotiable) and will be housed in the Department of Evolution, Ecology, and Organismal Biology (http://eeob.ucr.edu/). Evaluation of applications will begin March 31st and priority will be given to applications that are complete by this date. The position will remain open until a suitable candidate is found. Initial support is for one year with a second year available based on performance. Applications must include a CV, a cover letter describing teaching background and career goals, graduate transcripts, and the names and emails of 3 references. Application materials should be emailed to Kurt Anderson (kurt.ander...@ucr.edu) with the subject line “ILTI Postdoc.” The University of California is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
