A postdoctoral scholar position is available in the laboratory of Joshua King (http://sciences.ucf.edu/biology/king/ ) at the University of Central Florida (https://www.ucf.edu/) to study non-pollinator insect mediated ecosystem service provisioning. The postdoctoral associate will contribute to a large project exploring the impacts of dung beetles, fire ants, and their interactions in subtropical grassland ecosystems commonly used for beef cattle production. The postdoctoral scholar will have significant freedom to develop an independent research program in this system focused on understanding how pasture management and the ecology of insects interact to affect the delivery of ecosystem services.
Required qualifications: PhD in entomology, ecology, or a related field. The ideal candidate will have experience with dung beetle and/or ant ecology and conducting field experiments. A demonstrated record of research productivity (publications, presentations, some grant-writing, etc.) is expected. Desired qualifications: Experience with GIS, and experience with laboratory techniques such as insect identification and/or parasite extraction (from dung or soil) are preferred but not required. Ability to work in rigorous field conditions (seasonally hot, humid weather) on a working cattle ranch is expected. Interested candidates should send an email to [email protected] containing a coverletter describing their experiences and potential research interests and career goals, a current CV, and names and contact information for three references. Inquiries are welcome.
