Postdoctoral Researcher Ecology and Conservation of Rare Butterflies North Carolina State University Position located at Big Pine Key, Florida
One postdoctoral position will be available in the lab of Dr. Nick Haddad starting after October 15, 2011. This postdoc will be based in Big Pine Key, Florida, and will study the ecology and conservation of a very rare butterfly species, the Miami blue (Cyclargus thomasi bethunebakeri). The butterfly is currently limited to remote keys located west of Key West, Florida, and recently was emergency listed under the US Endangered Species Act. Research into the conservation (including monitoring and key threats) and ecology (including food plant use and phenology) are urgently needed. In addition, there are other rare butterflies in the vicinity that are also rare and/or declining. EXPECTATIONS: Working in collaboration with the Haddad lab, the postdoc will be expected to: 1. Develop and implement a monitoring protocol for the Miami blue. 2. Develop scientifically robust population estimates. 3. Identify and assess threats to the butterfly and habitat. 4. Develop habitat monitoring using remotely sensed data 5. Publish high-quality scientific papers 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 population ecology, landscape ecology, spatial ecology, or conservation biology. The successful candidate will have strengths in population estimation and in natural history (ideally, but not necessarily, with butterflies). The person must be comfortable in boats, and be willing to learn to drive a boat over long (10-15 mile) distances. 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 and search for position # 65444 for instructions and required documentation. A cover letter describing your interest in and skills for the position, curriculum vitae, and contact information for three references are required. A valid drivers license is required. Proper documentation of identity and employability will be required before the hiring process can be finalized. See http://www4.ncsu.edu/~haddad/ for more information about he Haddad lab PROPOSED HIRE DATE: Screening of applications will begin Oct. 7, 2011 and will continue until the position is filled. There is an initial one-year appointment. Longer-term employment is 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]
