We seek a postdoc to work on models characterizing the effects of individual and/or spatial heterogeneity on population dynamics. The specific project opportunities will depend on the interests and experience of the applicant, but include: relating individual heterogeneity in demographic rates to population-level consequences such as extinction risk and invasion speed; understanding how heterogeneity and stochasticity in individual growth rates can influence population growth rates; understanding how spatial heterogeneity in the environment can lead to individual heterogeneity in demography and growth. The modeling approaches range from strategic models of generalized organisms to more specialized models that represent plants, aquatic invertebrates, fish, or terrestrial vertebrates. The primary advisors will be Bruce Kendall and Roger Nisbet; the postdoc will also interact with an interdisciplinary team that is using a restored reach of the Merced River in California as an "outdoor laboratory" to study the hydrology and ecology of rivers (ecological leads on this project are Brad Cardinale and Hunter Lenihan).
Applicants should possess a PhD in applied mathematics, mathematical or theoretical biology, systems biology, or some related discipline. The ideal candidate will have strong background in the construction and analysis of discrete- or continuous-time dynamical models, and should have experience or training in working with stochastic and/or spatial processes. Funding is available for two years, with salary contingent on experience. Applicants should submit a CV, a statement of research interests, and the names of three referees to [EMAIL PROTECTED] Initial review of applications will begin on 4 August 2008, but applications received after that date may be considered. The University of California is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer.
