Postdoctoral position in plant-herbivore interactions and population dynamics, Ecology and Evolution group, Florida State University
We are seeking a postdoc to work with us on a study of the effects of insect herbivores on plant population dynamics. In this study we are using a combination of density and herbivore manipulation experiments in the field with density-dependent demographic modeling. The focal plant is Solanum carolinense, a native perennial. This project is based at Florida State University in the Underwood lab (http://bio.fsu.edu/%7enunderwood/homepage/) and is a collaborative venture with Stacey Halpern (http://www.pacificu.edu/as/biology/faculty/halpern.cfm) at Pacific University and Brian Inouye at FSU (http://bio.fsu.edu/%7ebinouye/). This postdoc will contribute to the project in three ways. A primary responsibility will be to assist with data collection and management for the existing large field experiment. In addition, the postdoc will be responsible for helping to develop and carry out experimental work for the project and/or assisting with data analysis. Finally, the postdoc will be encouraged to participate in developing new directions for this research, which may include applying for additional funding related to the postdocs specific interests. Minimum qualifications include a PhD in a relevant field, good field skills, knowledge of working with plants and/or insects, ability to work in hot and humid conditions, interest in the conceptual issues underpinning this project, and excellent time and people management skills. Desirable qualifications include strong analytical, statistical, or demographic modeling skills. Annual salary starts at $37,000/yr. Funding is available for one year, with a possible extension to 18 months with review. Start date is flexible. To apply (or if you have questions) email Nora Underwood ([email protected]). Stacey and Nora will also be available to meet with potential applicants at the Ecological Society meetings in Albuquerque in August (contact Nora at [email protected] to arrange a meeting). For applications, email a CV, a research statement (describing your research interests and how this position would relate to your long-term research goals), a brief (1 page) informal proposal for research relevant to this project (something you might contribute to the project), and names and contact information for three references. Applications accepted until the position is filled. Florida State University is an R1 research institution. The Ecology and Evolution Group at FSU is very interactive and friendly, with particular research strengths at the intersection of evolution and ecology. See http://www.bio.fsu.edu/ee/index.html for more information about the EE group and the area around FSU.
