Postdoctoral Research Associate

We are looking for a post-doctoral researcher with a strong quantitative background in biology, evolution, or social science, and previous experience in mathematical modeling or behavioral experimentation. 

Purpose: Complete a multi-method study of human cultural adaptation to environmental challenges with application to invasive plants and tick-borne disease threats among woodland owners with supervision from Dr. Waring and in collaboration with Dr. Gardner, and Dr. Leahy, and the project team. The desired start date is September 1, 2025. The project has 24 months of funding available, with an end date of August 31, 2027, contingent on funding and successful performance. Typical hiring range for this soft-money funded position is $45,000 to $48,000 commensurate with qualifications and experience.

Complete Job Description

About the University:
The University of Maine is a community of more than 11,900 undergraduate and graduate students, and 2,500 employees located on the Orono campus, the regional campus in Machias, and throughout the state. UMaine is a land, sea and space grant university, and maintains a leadership role as the University of Maine System's flagship institution. UMaine is the state's public research university and a Carnegie R1 top-tier research institution, dedicated to providing excellent teaching, research and service for Maine, the nation and the world. More information about UMaine is at umaine.edu. 

The University of Maine offers a wide range of benefits for employees including, but not limited to, tuition benefits (employee and dependent), comprehensive insurance coverage including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and short and long term disability as well as retirement plan options. 

UMaine is located in beautiful Central Maine. Many employees report that a primary reason for choosing to come to UMaine is quality of life. Numerous cultural activities, excellent public schools, safe neighborhoods, high quality medical care, little traffic, and a reasonable cost of living make the greater Bangor area a wonderful place to live. Visit the Maine Office of Tourism to learn more about what the Bangor region has to offer.

Qualifications:
Required:

• PhD degree in a relevant science (behavioral and human sciences, evolution, ecology, biology, psychology, economics, computer science) or engineering completed by start date
• Demonstrated academic excellence and research experience, especially published peer-reviewed papers
• Strong quantitative and analytical skills
• Excellent communication skills 
• Mature, organized, professional, punctual and courteous
• Strong and flexible collaborative abilities (i.e. able to work in a team, seek input, change strategies)
• Significant experience with a research computing language such as R, Python or Matlab
• Experience working with human research subjects

Preferred:

• Interest in human cultural evolution, social learning, and environmental implications
• Mathematical or simulation modeling experience
   

Other Information:   To be considered for this position you will need to “Apply” and upload the documentation listed below: 
  1.) a cover letter which describes your experience, interests, and suitability for the position 2.) a resume/curriculum vitae 
3.) a scientific writing sample (e.g. published paper, manuscript, thesis, project report)   Candidates selected to proceed to the final stages of the search process will be requested to provide a list of names and contact information for references.   Incomplete application materials cannot be considered. Materials received after the initial review date will be reviewed at the discretion of the University. 
  For full consideration, materials must be submitted by 4:30 p.m. EST on July 11, 2025. 
  For questions about the search, please contact Dr. Tim Waring (timothy.waring@maine.edu). 
  The successful applicant is subject to appropriate background screening.

 

In complying with the letter and spirit of applicable laws and pursuing its own goals of diversity, the University of Maine System does not discriminate on the grounds of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, transgender status, gender, gender identity or expression, ethnicity, national origin,