Postdoctoral Research Associate

University of Maine System • Orono, ME

5d • Onsite

About The Position

We are recruiting a postdoctoral researcher to join a collaborative, NSF-funded project investigating the mechanisms underlying the persistence of tundra plant relics in Northeast alpine zones since regional deglaciation ~13,000 years ago. We seek a question-driven, big-picture thinker who works well in collaborative groups, and ideally has a background in either paleoecology or plant population genetics. The postdoc will lead the analysis of ancient DNA reconstructions of long-term vegetation records from alpine lakes in the Adirondacks (NY), the White Mountains (NH), the Green Mountains (VT), and Maine. The chosen candidate will have the opportunity to develop and pursue questions of interest related to project themes and to contribute collaboratively with other team members, such as population genomic analyses of demographic history and adaptation. Our project not only has applications for understanding contemporary biodiversity patterns, but will also improve our understanding of how small, isolated populations persist in the face of global change. This position will be based in the BEAST Lab (Biodiversity and Environments Across Space and Time) in the Climate Change Institute at the University of Maine, under the mentorship of PI Jacquelyn Gill. The successful candidate will join a highly collaborative team including Dudu Meireles (University of Maine), Caitlin McDonough Mackenzie (Bennington College), Stephen Keller (University of Vermont), Andrew Rominger (University of Hawaii), and Isaac Overcast (Columbia University). The position is funded for up to three years (renewal after the first year is dependent upon progress). The University of Maine is a family-friendly R1 institution with a collegial environment. Close proximity to forests, mountains, rivers, and the ocean make the greater Bangor area a great place to live and work. Typical hiring salary for this soft-money funded position is $55,000 commensurate with qualifications and experience.

Requirements

• PhD in biology, ecology, evolution, geography, Earth science, or a related discipline (candidates nearing completion will be considered but the PhD must be conferred before the start date)
• Demonstrated track record of publication in scientific journals
• Strong quantitative and programming skills

Nice To Haves

• Expertise in the community ecology, functional ecology, or molecular ecology of plants
• Experience with sediment-based paleoecological reconstructions OR experience with population genomics and/or phylogeographic approaches to reconstructing past population dynamics of plants
• Familiarity with Arctic and/or alpine systems
• Curiosity, open-mindedness, and a willingness to learn new approaches
• Ability to work in a collaborative team across disciplines

Responsibilities

• Lead the analysis of ancient DNA reconstructions of long-term vegetation records from alpine lakes in the Adirondacks (NY), the White Mountains (NH), the Green Mountains (VT), and Maine.
• Develop and pursue questions of interest related to project themes.
• Contribute collaboratively with other team members, such as population genomic analyses of demographic history and adaptation.

Benefits

• tuition benefits (employee and dependent)
• comprehensive insurance coverage including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and short and long term disability
• retirement plan options

What This Job Offers

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