Postdoctoral Research Associate

Job Title

Postdoctoral Research Associate

Agency

Texas A&M University - Corpus Christi

Department

College of Science - Life Sciences

Proposed Minimum Salary

Commensurate

Job Location

Corpus Christi, Texas

Job Type

Staff

Job Description

TAMU-CC is a dynamic university designated as both a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) and Minority-Serving Institution (MSI) with approximately 11,000 students from 47 states and 54 foreign nations. We employ over 1,400 full-time and 2,000 part-time Islanders (including students/GAs). The University attracts highly talented faculty and staff and offers an array of undergraduate and graduate degrees, including doctoral programs.  As a member of the Texas A&M University System, TAMU-CC benefits from a range of resources, increased visibility and influence, and opportunities to collaborate in mutually beneficial ways with peers across member institutions and associated agencies.

TAMU-CC’s beautiful campus is located on a 240-acre island on Corpus Christi Bay and was ranked #1 College by the Sea by Best College Reviews. Our natural setting is enhanced by its modern, attractive, and state-of-the-art classroom buildings and support facilities.

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PURPOSE

The Postdoctoral research position will be part of the McCracken Lab in the Department of Life Sciences at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi. The successful candidate will advance research in biodiversity, species distribution modeling, movement/habitat use and conservation, with a particular focus on amphibians and reptiles (herpetofauna). Seeking a highly motivated and skilled Postdoctoral researcher to join an interdisciplinary team dedicated to advancing research in biodiversity, species distribution, habitat use, and conservation, with a particular focus on amphibians and reptiles. The successful candidate will employ a suite of methodological approaches to study herpetofauna in south Texas and will analyze spatial and temporal patterns to understand their ecological needs and conservation status. They will also be responsible for preparing publications and reports on research results and assist with mentoring undergraduate and graduate students conducting field work and data analysis. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to critical conservation efforts and to advance our understanding of herpetofaunal ecology.

DESCRIPTION

Functional Area 1: Research

Percent Effort: 30%

Job Duties

• Contribute to the design and implementation of field studies to collect data on amphibian and reptile biodiversity, species distributions, movement and habitat use. Focus is on Texas Species of Greatest Conservation Need (SGCN’s), with funded projects investigating the Texas Scarlet snake, Texas Diamondback terrapin, and the Black-spotted newt.

• Employ a range of tools and techniques including camera traps, AHDriFT, automated recording devices, eDNA sampling and traditional surveys to collect data.

• Collect morphometric and biological sample data for genetic and disease analyses. (i.e. blood, tissue, swabs, etc.)

Functional Area 2: Data Analysis

Percent Effort: 30%

Job Duties

• Build species distribution models for focal SGCN’s to inform research and conservation strategies.

• Use machine/deep learning approaches for species detection and identification.

• Apply biodiversity and movement statistics (including hierarchical modeling) to analyze data.

Functional Area 3: Disseminate Research Results

Percent Effort: 30%

Job Duties

• Lead the preparation of research findings for publication in peer-reviewed national/international journals; and present results at local, regional, national, and international meetings.

• Engage with local communities, stakeholders, and conservation organizations to disseminate research findings and promote conservation initiatives.

• Provide engaging research updates for communication platforms including social media and other media outlets, as applicable.

• Contribute to the preparation of interim and final reports for projects.

Functional Area 4: Other

Percent Effort: 10%

Job Duties

• Assist with mentorship of undergraduate and graduate students conducting field work and data analysis.

• Assist with monthly travel and expense reporting.

• Assist with permitting and IACUC protocols.

• Contribute to the development of grant proposals to secure funding for ongoing and future research proje