Funding is available for one-year (with the potential for a second year) for a postdoctoral research position to lead a field project investigating the spatial extent and ecological effects of non-native earthworms on the historically earthworm-free San Clemente Island, California (SCI). Invasive earthworms, including species from Europe and Asia, have been documented to have dramatic impacts on native species, communities, and ecosystems; however, earthworm invasions in regions other than the eastern U.S. and outside of forested areas are poorly understood. The newly documented invasion of non-native earthworms on SCI is a cause for conservation concern in the context of the island’s many endangered and endemic plant and animal species and sub-species.
The successful applicant will work in collaboration with researchers from Oklahoma State University (Dr. Scott Loss), The Urban Wildlands Group and University of Southern California (Dr. Travis Longcore) and a Navy biologist and botanist to develop a survey design and earthworm assessment protocol. The postdoc will then implement the assessment plan in coordination with the Navy (and with assistance from a research technician) including fieldwork to sample earthworms, measure vegetation, and to begin to conduct earthworm species identification. Fieldwork will occur during the island’s wet season of roughly December to May. After the field season, the postdoc will conduct quantitative analyses to determine the abundance, spatial extent, habitat affinities, and potential for ecological effects of invasion. Based on results of the above analyses, the Navy will decide whether to implement control and/or eradication measures or to initiate a second field season to conduct more focused research into earthworm ecological impacts, including potential impacts on vertebrates. Applicants must have a Ph.D. in ecology or a related field, demonstrated experience leading field research crews and conducting statistical analyses, including spatial analyses (experience with GIS required), as well as a demonstrated track record of publishing research results in peer-reviewed journals. Preferred qualifications include experience conducting vegetation and invertebrate surveys (applicants with experience sampling earthworms will be especially competitive). Applicants should be able to work in a remote field site under wet, windy, and/or foggy conditions, spend long hours in the field, and traverse rugged terrain using GPS and compass/map. The postdoc will also have to deal with the unique, challenging, and dynamic logistical considerations associated with working on an active military training installation. Salary for one year is $40,000 and housing and transportation will be provided for the fieldwork component of the project. We are flexible about where the postdoc will complete the analysis and writing portion of the work after fieldwork is completed; however, visits to Oklahoma State University (Stillwater, Oklahoma) may be necessary to conduct earthworm identification in the laboratory. This position will be filled as soon as possible. We seek to begin developing the assessment plan in November, and fieldwork may begin as early as December. To apply, please send a cover letter (outlining your experience and interest specifically related to the requirements of this research position), a CV, and contact information for 3 references to Scott Loss ([email protected]).
