Post Doc Research Scientist - Geology

Field Museum • Chicago, IL

5d • Onsite

About The Position

The O’Connor Lab (Dead Bird Nerds) in the Geology Department of the Negaunee Integrative Research Center at the Field Museum of Natural History seeks a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher for a three-year, NSF-funded project titled “Evolution of the Aerodynamic Feathered Wing: Development of Shape-Function Relationship Through Deep Time.” The project uses feathered pennaraptoran fossils from the Jurassic and Cretaceous of China to investigate the evolution of the aerodynamic feathered wing and the refinement of powered flight in dinosaurs.

The successful candidate will conduct research on relevant fossils, measure flight-related parameters across a statistically significant sample of specimens from several pennaraptoran taxa, and produce scholarly research at a target rate of at least two first-authored manuscripts per year. The position also involves travel to China as required, participation in lab meetings, and near-peer mentoring. The role receives general supervision from the Associate Curator of Fossil Reptiles and has no direct supervisory responsibilities.

This is a three-year term position. The start date will be determined based on departmental needs and candidate availability. The position is 35 hours per week, hybrid eligibility is not available, and it is located at 1400 S. DuSable Lake Shore Dr., Chicago, IL 60605. The position is represented by Field Museum Workers’ United, AFSCME Council 31, AFL-CIO. The pay range is $61,461.

Requirements

• PhD in biological sciences, geological sciences, or a related field.
• Demonstrated experience in one or more of the following: pennaraptoran theropod anatomy and systematics; statistical analysis of morphological data; 3D segmentation and modeling; or 3D biomechanical analysis.
• Demonstrated proficiency in statistical analysis.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research on feathered pennaraptoran fossils from the Jurassic and Cretaceous of China to investigate the evolution of the aerodynamic feathered wing and refinement of powered flight in dinosaurs.
• Measure flight-related parameters in statistically significant samples of specimens referable to a single taxon for several pennaraptoran taxa across the dinosaur-bird transition.
• Produce scholarly research and publications, targeting at least two first-authored manuscripts per year.
• Travel to China as required to support project research.
• Participate in lab meetings and near-peer mentoring.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision plans.
• Pet insurance.
• Life and disability benefits.
• 403(b) savings plan.
• Paid time off.
• Paid sick leave.
• Paid holidays.
• Employee discounts.
• Complimentary general admission to participating cultural institutions.

What This Job Offers

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