Postdoctoral Researcher in Conservation Biology North Carolina State University
One postdoctoral position will be available in the lab of Dr. Nick Haddad at NC State University starting April 1, 2011. The postdoc will study the consequences of restoration for rare butterflies. Restoration seeks to increase habitat and population growth rates of rare species, yet we do not know whether restoration accomplishes this objective. In the worst-case scenario, well-intentioned restoration may create habitat in which populations contract (that is, population sinks). Using the federally endangered St. Francis satyr (Neonympha mitchellii francisci) as a model system, we will experimentally restore wetland habitat and test restorations effects on butterfly demography and behavior. EXPECTATIONS: The postdoc will be expected to: 1) Oversee the creation of a large restoration experiment 2) Conduct studies on demography and behavior of butterflies, and potentially of their host plants 3) design and initiate additional restoration-related studies that go beyond already proposed research to reap additional value from the proposed experiments 4) Supervise a small team of undergraduates 5) Publish high-quality scientific papers RESEARCH GROUP: The postdoc will be part of the Haddad research lab http://www4.ncsu.edu/~haddad/. On a day-to-day basis, the postdoc will interact with graduate and undergraduate students, a technician in the Haddad lab, as well as biologists at Ft. Bragg. The position requires a substantial field component, and will include approximately ½ time in the field at Ft. Bragg, North Carolina, a site that is predominantly longleaf pine woodlands. This study is part of a collaborative proposal that includes similar tests on two other rare butterfly species. The group includes Dr. Elizabeth Crone (Harvard Forest), Dr. Chris Damiani (Institute for Wildlife Studies), Dr Brian Hudgens (Institute for Wildlife Studies), Dr. Bill Morris (Duke), and Dr. Cheryl Schultz (Washington State), and the postdoc will interact frequently with collaborators. QUALIFICATIONS: The position requires a) a PhD in Ecology, Biology, or other related field at the time of appointment; and b) research strengths in some combination of restoration ecology, landscape ecology, spatial ecology, or conservation biology. Motivation to publish original research in conservation and/or ecology; intellectual energy and creativity; strength in scholarly and interpersonal communication; ability to work well as a part of a team; and strong organizational skills are all qualities sought in the successful candidate for this position. APPLICATION: Applicants must apply online. Go to http://jobs.ncsu.edu/applicants/Central?quickFind=88559 or see http://jobs.ncsu.edu (position # 100773) for instructions and required documentation. A cover letter, curriculum vitae, and contact information for three references are required. A valid drivers license is required. NC Driver's license required within 60 days of hire. Proper documentation of identity and employability will be required before the hiring process can be finalized. PROPOSED HIRE DATE: Screening of applications will begin December 1, 2010 and will continue until the position is filled. The desired start date is April 1 2011. Initial one-year appointment can be continued contingent upon strong performance and renewed grant support. The position offers competitive salary plus benefits. CONTACT: Dr. Nick Haddad, [email protected] North Carolina State University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. NC State welcomes all persons without regard to sexual orientation. Persons with disabilities who need accommodations in the application process should contact Susan Marschalk, Department of Biology, via telephone at (919) 515-2741, or via e-mail at [email protected]
