The Jones Lab at the Rocky Mountain Research Station and University of New Mexico (http://www.gavinmjones.com) is seeking an MSc-level geospatial analyst or PhD-level postdoctoral researcher to work on developing novel conservation strategies for old-growth forests in North America.
The position will be focused on developing landscape simulations of alternative old-growth conservation strategies, with a focus on considering alternatives to traditional old-growth forest ‘static’ reserves. The candidate will conduct global literature syntheses on cross-cultural and institutional conservation paradigms, and translate these paradigms into statistical simulation models. Resulting research will directly inform forest management and climate resilience old-growth forests in North America. The scope of the position provides strong opportunities for applicants to make rapid career progress on a high-impact problem of fundamental and applied relevance. The individual will have numerous opportunities to work on other projects in the lab and spend time on new research, collaborations, and general career/skill development.
Minimum qualifications are an MSc or PhD in forest ecology, geography, computer science, or a related discipline. A successful candidate at the MSc level will be hired as a ‘research associate’, and a successful candidate at the PhD level will be hired as a ‘postdoctoral research associate’. The ideal candidate will have a background that includes experience using forest landscape simulation models, Google Earth Engine and/or high-throughput parallel computing, and a strong interest in developing creative extensions to scenario planning approaches. We encourage you to apply even if your experience is not a 100% match with the position. We are looking for someone with relevant skills and experience, not a checklist that exactly matches the job description. We want to help you grow and in return, you help us grow into a stronger, more inclusive research group. Strong programming experience is essential; candidates should be proficient using program R, Python, and/or JavaScript.
The individual will be hired through the Biology Department at the University of New Mexico and will have a dual affiliation with the USDA Forest Service – Rocky Mountain Research Station (RMRS). The individual will be supervised by Dr. Gavin Jones (RMRS and University of New Mexico) and will collaborate closely with a team of researchers including Dr. Sarah Sawyer (US Forest Service), Dr. Matt Hurteau (University of New Mexico), and several others. We have a strong preference for a candidate to join our team on-site in Albuquerque. We believe that community is an important part of science, and to this end we are building a local lab community. However, remote or telework options may be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Ideal start date for the position is Summer or Fall 2024, but there is some flexibility depending on the needs and constraints of the candidate. The position will be funded for a duration of 2 years, with possibility of extension pending funding availability and performance. Starting salary will range from $55,000 to $65,000, depending on qualifications and degree status. Insurance and benefits package included, and partial reimbursement of relocation expenses may be possible for exceptional candidates.
How to apply
Email a 1-page cover letter describing your background and interests in the position, a CV, and contact information for 3 references to Dr. Gavin Jones (gavin.jones@usda.gov). Applications will be reviewed until the position is filled.
