Postdoctoral opportunity in plant ecology at UT Austin Our ability to predict future ecosystem functioning and to accurately manage ecosystems is limited by our understanding of plant ecology. In particular, we struggle to connect the scales of individual plants to landscape dynamics and global patterns.
Because experiments are impossible across these scales, in the Farrior lab, we use models to connect them and generate predictions testable with data we can collect. Through this integration of mechanistic models and data, we generate new insights into the fundamental governing principles of plant communities – principles we hope will hold in the future under the novel environmental conditions that come with climate change. We are now looking for a postdoc with a deep interest in fundamental plant ecology to join us. The candidate must hold a PhD in Ecology or related field at the time the appointment begins. Desired qualifications include experience with both empirical and theoretical ecology, evidence of good writing and communication skills, and organization and collaborative ability. Current projects of interest in the lab include (but are not limited to): • Investigating fundamental differences in tropical and temperate forest ecology through integration of forest size structure, modeling, and species characteristics. • Understanding changes in the nature of competition among plants across biome boundaries. • Understanding the relative importance of rare disturbance versus constant competitive pressure on plant strategies (including hydraulic strategies). Funding is available for 2+ years. To apply, please compile a single PDF with the following: a (1-2page) statement of research accomplishments and future research interests, a CV, and the contact information for three professional references. Include details of your experience with theoretical work, if applicable. Send applications to [email protected] with the subject line: Postdoc in Plant Ecology. Review of applications will begin August 31st, 2018 and continue until the position is filled. Inquiries about fit for the position prior to applications are welcome as are meetings at ESA in New Orleans. We embrace and encourage diversity in many forms and are committed to inclusivity among our community members, including all students, staff, and faculty. We define diversity as people of different backgrounds, races, nationalities, genders, sexual orientations, beliefs, religions, socio-economic statuses, and more, and inclusivity as an approach where we respect, welcome, encourage, and engage diverse perspectives. Our strength and success as a research group, department, and university, is built on the foundation of a wide range of perspectives and experiences.
