Position Summary

Dr. Tom Miller's lab in the Department of BioSciences is looking to hire a Postdoctoral Research Associate in the field of Ecology. The successful candidate will be based in the Miller Lab and will collaborate with the research team from the Sevilleta Long-Term Ecological Research program (SEV-LTER) to model the dynamics of habitat ecotones in response to global change drivers using observational and experimental data from SEV-LTER. The ideal candidate will have training and interests at the interface of experimental and theoretical ecology, including strong quantitative and statistical skills. The position will primarily involve analysis of existing data, modeling, and manuscript preparation. There may be additional opportunities for field work at SEV-LTER depending on interest. The ideal candidate will have experience with (or openness to learning) data-driven demographic models (e.g., matrix or integral projection models) and spatial population-dynamic populations (e.g., reaction-diffusion or integro-difference equations). 

The start date for this role is flexible and can be scheduled any time in 2025. If you have not yet received your PhD degree but expect to graduate by May or summer 2025, we welcome your application as well.

Working Conditions: This position may be funded by a grant, soft and/or restricted funds. Continued employment is contingent on the renewal of funding. 

Required Qualifications

Ph.D in Biology, Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Environmental Science, or related disciplines

Required Skills 

Proficiency in R for purposes of data management, statistical analysis, and numerical simulation Excellent verbal and written communication skills, as well as oral presentation skills Organization and time management skills Knowledge of modern research methods, data collection, and analyses Knowledge of the principles and techniques of the subject discipline Ability to write scholarly papers based on ongoing research in order to submit them to journals for publication Able to work in a collaborative environment Able to work independently and professionally with minimal supervision and direction

Preferred Qualifications

Experience with demographic models and/or spatial population-dynamic models

Essential Functions 

Construct and analyze ecotone models Documents, analyzes, and maintains research data Mentors, oversees, and/or trains junior research team members and students Collaborate with team members at other institutions Publishes and presents research findings Supports project management and collaboration across institutions or disciplines Performs all other duties as assigned

 

Rice University HR | Benefits: https://knowledgecafe.rice.edu/benefits-overview 

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If you have any questions, please email us at jobs@rice.edu. Thank you for your interest in employment with Rice University.