Postdoctoral/data analyst position in quantitative ecology The Poulsen Lab at Duke University (http://poulsenlabduke.com) is seeking an outstanding postdoc or data analyst to study the responses of plant and animal communities to human disturbance of tropical forests. The research will consist of two principal foci: (1) Evaluation of how changes in the animal community cascade to affect forest structure, composition and services through the modification or loss of ecological processes; (2) Assessment of forest composition, biomass and carbon stocks in relation to environmental and disturbance gradients. Specific topics include, but are not limited to, modeling of seedling recruitment, modeling of seed dispersal, comparison of survey methods for tropical animals, and quantification of carbon stocks.
The position will consist of analyzing and modeling existing datasets, including both experimental and observational field data, and contributing to the writing of scientific papers. As such, we are looking for candidates with strong quantitative, programming, and modeling skills. In addition to the several papers that are already outlined, the successful candidate will have the latitude to explore additional questions/research avenues with the data. Minimum Qualifications Required: Candidates must have obtained their PhD in ecology, environmental science, applied statistics or mathematics or a related field by the appointment start date. Statistical and programming skills are essential. Demonstrated writing skills, as evidenced by a record of publication, are necessary. Candidates must demonstrate the ability to work well independently. Additional Qualifications Experience with Bayesian analysis and fitting of maximum likelihood models is preferred. Familiarity with Distance analysis, phenomenological models of seed dispersal and seedling recruitment, and GIS are all beneficial. The best-qualified applicants will also have exceptional reasoning and analytical skills, and experience working or ability to work as part of an interdisciplinary team of scientists. Application Process Interested candidates should send an email describing their research interests and qualifications along with a CV and two representative publications to [email protected]. The appointment is for one year (with potential for renewal), to begin as soon as possible. John Poulsen Assistant Professor Nicholas School of the Environment Duke University, Durham, NC
