Postdoctoral Research Associate – Theoretical Ecological and Evolutionary Modeling

Position Title: Postdoctoral Research Associate - Theoretical Ecological and Evolutionary Modeling.
Department: Biology.
Classification: Exempt.
FTE: 1.0.
Work Schedule: The standard 40-hour work schedule is Monday - Friday, 8:00 am - 5:00 pm; flexible work arrangements can be proposed and are subject to approval by HR and relevant supervisor. 2 years (initial 1 year appointment with potential for reappointment pending satisfactory progress).
Salary Range: $55,000 - $61,000.

Position Overview:

The Muthukrishnan Lab at St. Olaf College (integratedecology.weebly.com), in collaboration with the Buston and Davies Labs (Boston University) and the Majoris Lab (Texas A&M University, Corpus Christi) seeks a highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Associate focused on theoretical ecological and evolutionary modeling to join our interdisciplinary team. The position is part of an NSF funded project that aims to understand the patterns and causes of marine larval dispersal, by investigating the plasticity of larval dispersal traits in response to variation in parental environments.

The postdoctoral associate will primarily focus on developing a spatially explicit modeling framework to assess the evolutionary drivers and ecological consequences of dispersal plasticity. We will then work with collaborators to parameterize the model with empirical data from associated lab and field studies. This project offers an opportunity to work on cutting edge research on trait plasticity including both theoretical evolutionary biology and the genomic and molecular basis for plasticity. The position will be located at St. Olaf College in Minnesota, but it is expected that the selected candidate will travel to Boston University multiple times over the course of the project to facilitate collaboration with other team members. 

St. Olaf College is a nationally recognized liberal arts institution in Northfield, Minnesota (just outside of, and in commuting distance from, Minneapolis) with a strong commitment to research, scholarship, and mentorship. The college provides an intellectually rich environment where postdoctoral researchers can advance their scientific expertise while gaining valuable experience in interdisciplinary collaboration and undergraduate mentorship. St. Olaf offers modern research facilities, opportunities for independent and collaborative research, and a supportive academic community that values both scientific innovation and professional development. 

Essential Job Duties:

• Develop and apply theoretical models to evaluate the evolutionary causes and ecological consequences of dispersal plasticity.
• Collaborate with a diverse team of PIs, Co-PIs, and collaborators from BU and TAMUCC to integrate modeling results with empirical data.
• Prepare manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed journals and present research findings at scientific conferences.
• Contribute to the training and mentoring of undergraduate and graduate students involved in the project.

Supervision Received and Exercised:

• Reports to the Assistant Professor of Biology.
• This position does not supervise staff or students.

Required Qualifications:

• A Ph.D. in Ecology, Evolutionary Biology, Theoretical Biology, or a related field.
• Strong background in theoretical modeling and quantitative analysis in ecological and evolutionary contexts.
• Proficiency analyzing data and developing simulation models in R.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team.
• Dedication to creating an inclusive environment.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with developing and implementing ecological and evolutionary models.
• Knowledge of marine population dynamics and dispersal theories.
• Previous experience in mentoring and teaching at the undergraduate or graduate level.

Commitment to Inclusion and Diversity:
Our research group is committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment where individuals from diverse backgrounds and experiences can thrive. We strongly encourage applications from candidates of all races, ethnicities, gender identities, sexual orientations, socioeconomic backgrounds, and physical abilities. We value diverse perspectives and believe that a broad range of experiences strengthens our scientific community. If you have any questions about accommodations or working in our group, we encourage you to reach out.

How to Apply:

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