Post-doctoral Opportunity: The Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute

Smithsonian – University of Virginia Postdoctoral Research Associate in
Forest-Fire-Climate Interactions
The Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute (SCBI) and University of
Virginia (UVA) seek a creative and energetic postdoctoral research associate
to participate in NSF-funded research addressing the potential for a climate
change-driven critical transition from forest to chaparral in the Klamath
region (N California/ S Oregon). This position will focus on climatic
controls on the dynamics of forest recovery following fire—a key piece of
the broader picture of how climate change may shift the system to an
alternative stable state through altered disturbance-recovery dynamics and
how management practices may mitigate the risk. The associate will be
jointly advised by Kristina Anderson-Teixeira (SCBI, CTFS-ForestGEO) and
Howard Epstein (UVA) and will collaborate as part of a large,
multi-institutional team including researchers at Harvard Forest, Portland
State University, Oregon State University, and the U.S. Forest Service.
Qualifications & Position Information:
Requirements include a PhD in a relevant field; field research experience in
terrestrial ecosystem ecology, forestry, ecohydrology, or a related field;
strong quantitative and data analysis skills (including programming in R or
Matlab); effective scientific writing ability; and evidence of broad and
creative scientific thinking. Preferred qualifications include experience
with GIS and ecosystem modeling. Candidate must have the ability to work
independently and in supervisory roles and to collaborate effectively as
part of a research team.
This is a two-year position with potential extension based on satisfactory
performance and the availability of funds. Ideal start date is February or
March 2015.
Application procedure:
To apply, please email a cover letter describing your qualifications and
interest in the position, CV, one relevant publication or dissertation
chapter, and contact information for 3 references to Kristina
Anderson-Teixeira at teixeirak@si.edu. Review of applications will begin
October 1 and continue until the position is filled.
The Smithsonian Institution values and seeks a diverse workforce; female and
minority candidates are encouraged to apply.