Paleobotany Postdoctoral Scholar

Denver Museum of Nature & Science • Denver, CO

9d • Onsite

About The Position

The Denver Museum of Nature & Science (DMNS) Earth Sciences Department is seeking a Paleobotany Postdoctoral Scholar for a two-year, NSF-funded position. This role is part of a multidisciplinary research team investigating the biodiversity and recovery of life following the Cretaceous–Paleogene (K–Pg) mass extinction. The scholar will analyze paleontological and geochemical records from the Denver and Williston Basins, focusing on the evolution, diversity, and ecology of K–Pg floras and ecosystems. The position involves close collaboration with the Curator of Paleobotany, other museum staff, and external colleagues, with an emphasis on characterizing the recovery and restructuring of K–Pg floras. The successful candidate is expected to contribute to peer-reviewed publications and related activities. Interests and experience in macrofloral paleobotanical taxonomy, ecology, and plant–insect associations are particularly encouraged. The position start date is flexible, with an ideal start by Fall 2026.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Paleobiology, Biology, Geology or a related field by the start of the position.
• Peer-reviewed publication record.
• Proficiency in Mesozoic and/or early Cenozoic paleobotanical research.
• Specific experience with macrofloral paleobotanical specimens.

Nice To Haves

• Proficiency in organizing datasets in Microsoft Excel.
• Proficiency in performing data analyses in relevant software (e.g. R).
• Experience in field and/or collections-based research.
• Interests and experience in macrofloral paleobotanical taxonomy and/or ecology, including plant–insect associations.

Responsibilities

• Leads research projects on paleobotany of Late Cretaceous and early Paleocene macrofloral fossil specimens resulting in peer-reviewed publications.
• Collaborates with the Curator of Paleobotany and as needed with other DMNS staff, interns, associates, and/or external partners to contribute to ongoing scholarship.
• Assists with specimen preparation and curation activities.
• Submits and approves timesheets and expenses promptly.
• Participates in Museum and Science Division initiatives and professional paleontology community activities including regular professional meeting attendance.
• Develops skills and experience that will help propel their scientific career, potentially including database, collections, lab, field, and/or fundraising work.
• Facilitates internal and external outreach events to the scientific and public communities via verbal, lecture, video, written, and/or other media formats.
• Contributes to the museum’s impact by participating in activities such as inclusivity efforts and mentoring.
• Participates in leadership or other service roles that support and diversify the broader earth science community.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree