Quantitative Ecology Postdoc Position 

We are seeking a postdoctoral associate with experience in quantitative modeling of plant functional traits, biodiversity and extinction rate, and / or species distributions at large geographic scales. The associate will analyze spatiotemporal response of biodiversity, plant trait distributions, and biophysical variables to global climate change. 

This NSF-funded project aims to better understand how anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions, via their effects on ecological systems, affect human well-being in order to better support climate policy analysis. While the candidate will focus primarily on the ecological component, he/she will be part of an interdisciplinary team and should therefore have an interest in collaboration with economists and climate scientists.

The position will be supervised by Drs. Xiaoli Dong and Frances Moore at the Department of Environmental Science and Policy at UC Davis.   

Qualifications 

Applicants should hold a PhD in ecology or similar field. Previous doctoral or postdoctoral research experience should include quantitative analysis of large datasets. Applicants should be fluent in R, and ideally have experience programming in other languages, such as Python or JavaScript. Strong programming skills, 3+ years of experience in Bayesian modeling and manipulation of large geospatial datasets are required. The candidate should be capable of working independently and collaboratively. The researcher will be expected to prepare results for peer-reviewed journals. 

Time Frame 

Initial appointment will be for one year, with possibility to extend to three years. Start date is flexible, and the position is available immediately. The selected candidate will need to meet all hiring requirements, including a background check, prior to the start date.

To Apply 

To apply, please send electronically to Xiaoli Dong (xldong@ucdavis.edu) the following materials: a cover letter (which includes a brief summary of research experience and interests), a CV (with publication list), and names and contact information of three references (letters of references will be requested for finalists). Applications should be submitted as one complete attachment. Review of applications will begin October 15, 2019, but applications will continue to be considered until the position is filled.