Two Postdoc Positions in Pollination Ecology are available in the Harmon- Threatt Lab at UIUC
Two postdoctoral positions are available in the Department of Entomology at the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) as part two USDA funded projects based at the University of Illinois assessing pollinator diversity and responses. Descriptions of each project are below: Bee-Plant-Soil Interactions- Soil contamination by neonicotinoids can last years but little is known about the direct and indirect effects this contamination has on bees. This is largely due to the overlooked importance of soils in pollinator restoration projects despite significant evidence soils are critical to successful plant establishment and increasing evidence of the importance of soils for bees. Using manipulated field and lab experiments in conjunction with observational experiments in restored areas, this project examines how soil characteristics affect ground dwelling bees, plant community dynamics and contamination levels. The postdoc is sought to support research on bee-plant-soil interactions in restored areas in corn-soybean systems including bee abundance and diversity, plant growth and degradation rates of contaminants. Job duties include designing and conducting field and laboratory experiments, developing and testing innovative methodologies, coordinating research activities with the team of collaborators, supervising technicians and undergraduates, and writing manuscripts. This postdoc will work with Drs. Alexandra Harmon-Threatt and Anthony Yannarell. Start date is flexible but ideally could begin as early as May 20, 2018 or as late as January 1, 2019. Ecosystem Services in Perennial Polyculture Crop Systems- To help alleviate the conflicts between agriculture and biodiversity conservation, alternative cropping systems are being developed that increase diversity, reduce disturbance and maintain yields. This project will assess if using these alternatives to replace other biodiversity plantings in marginal cropping areas can improve pollinator conservation as well as assess possible feedbacks into crops via pollination and pest suppression. https://www.cabi.org/forestscience/news/25781 The postdoc on this project will work with Drs. Alexandra Harmon-Threatt and Sarah Lovell to conduct assessments of supporting services such as pollination and pest suppression in an established manipulated field experiment and nearby similar habitats. Applicant must be available before January 1, 2019. Required Qualifications for both positions: • A Ph.D. or the equivalent in ecology, entomology, or related field • Experience with laboratory and field work particularly with insect-plant interactions • Strong English writing and oral communication skills • Strong organizational skills • Ability to work in a collaborative environment • A valid driver’s license Strong candidates will also possess the following attributes: • A strong publication record from their Ph.D. (papers published, in press, or submitted) • Experience with insect rearing, plant identification, insect identification • Strong statistical and mathematical skills • Experience with method development • Creativity, independence, and the desire to learn new things Each position is available for two years with possible extension; however, annual renewal is dependent on funding and progress made by the individual. This position includes a competitive salary and full benefits. Application review will begin April 23, 2018 and will continue until the position is filled. Applications should include a cover letter, curriculum vitae, and the names and contact information for three references as a single PDF. Please clearly label the files “Bee-Plant-Soil Interactions Postdoc_Last Name” or “Ecosystem Services Postdoc_Last Name”. If you desire to be considered for both positions, please submit two independent applications. For further information about the positions and to submit the application, please contact Dr. Alexandra Harmon-Threatt a...@illinois.edu. Visit life.illinois.edu/harmon/ for more information Illinois is an Affirmative Action /Equal Opportunity Employer and welcomes individuals with diverse backgrounds, experiences, and ideas who embrace and value diversity and inclusivity. (www.inclusiveillinois.illinois.edu) The University of Illinois conducts criminal background checks on all job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent offer.
