Smithsonian – University of Virginia Postdoctoral Research Associate in Forest-Fire-Climate Interactions
The Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute (SCBI) and University of Virginia (UVA) seek a creative and energetic postdoctoral research associate to participate in NSF-funded research addressing the potential for a climate change-driven critical transition from forest to chaparral in the Klamath region (N California/ S Oregon). This position will focus on climatic controls on the dynamics of forest recovery following fire—a key piece of the broader picture of how climate change may shift the system to an alternative stable state through altered disturbance-recovery dynamics and how management practices may mitigate the risk. The associate will be jointly advised by Kristina Anderson-Teixeira (SCBI, CTFS-ForestGEO) and Howard Epstein (UVA) and will collaborate as part of a large, multi-institutional team including researchers at Harvard Forest, Portland State University, Oregon State University, and the U.S. Forest Service. Qualifications & Position Information: Requirements include a PhD in a relevant field; field research experience in terrestrial ecosystem ecology, forestry, ecohydrology, or a related field; strong quantitative and data analysis skills (including programming in R or Matlab); effective scientific writing ability; and evidence of broad and creative scientific thinking. Preferred qualifications include experience with GIS and ecosystem modeling. Candidate must have the ability to work independently and in supervisory roles and to collaborate effectively as part of a research team. This is a two-year position with potential extension based on satisfactory performance and the availability of funds. Ideal start date is February or March 2015. Application procedure: To apply, please email a cover letter describing your qualifications and interest in the position, CV, one relevant publication or dissertation chapter, and contact information for 3 references to Kristina Anderson-Teixeira at [email protected]. Review of applications will begin October 1 and continue until the position is filled. The Smithsonian Institution values and seeks a diverse workforce; female and minority candidates are encouraged to apply.
