Post-Doctoral Research Associate – Carbon sequestration and wildfire risk across open-to-closed forest restoration gradients of the eastern U.S.
Job Description: A fully-funded, two-year Post-Doctoral Research Associate Position is available starting as soon as possible with Dr. Heather Alexander in the Forest and Fire Ecology Lab at Auburn University (Auburn, Alabama, USA; https://forestfireecology.auburn.edu/). The post-doc will 1) lead an intensive field effort to evaluate whole ecosystem carbon pools across forest restoration gradients on study sites across the eastern U.S. representing a range of forest types, including coastal and montane longleaf pine, mixed pine-oak, upland hardwoods, and shortleaf pine, and 2) build a species flammability trait database and author a “state of the knowledge” review paper documenting our current understanding of ecosystem service trade-offs associated with open forest woodlands and savannas compared to closed-canopy forests. Ultimately, our research goals are to incorporate information about ecosystem services provided by open forest woodlands and savannas, and their potential trade-offs, to promote large-scale forest restoration and revegetation efforts. The post-doc will collaborate with Forest Service researchers, university experts, extension agents, land managers, and private landowners. In addition to developing and executing this research, the post-doc will be expected to (1) assist other collaborating researchers and lab members with their projects, (2) mentor graduate and undergraduate researchers working on related projects, and (3) contribute to college and university service.
Minimum Qualifications: Applicants must have a PhD degree in forestry, ecology, biology, or a related field at the time of starting the position. Prior experience in fieldwork related to forest ecology, natural resource management, and/or ecosystem ecology is required. Successful candidates must demonstrate an aptitude for research, strong analytical and oral and written scientific communication skills, attention to detail, and ability to work independently and as a team. Applicants must be capable of working long hours outdoors exposed to harsh weather, biting insects, and thorny vegetation. Must possess a current and valid driver's license and be able to drive a University-owned state vehicle. Must be authorized to work in the U.S. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment visa for this position.
Desired Qualifications: Preference will be given to applicants with a publication record, strong statistical analyses skills, experience working with diverse groups from various backgrounds, and experience leading field crews.
Special Instructions to Applicants: If interested, please email to Dr. Heather Alexander (heather.alexander@auburn.edu) (1) a cover letter discussing interest in the research, qualifications, and applicable background experience; (2) a resume/CV; (3) contact information for three professional references. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.
Compensation: Financial support is available annually based on performance for at least 2 years, starting as soon as September 2023, and includes an annual stipend of $58,000/year plus health insurance.
Notice: Auburn University is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer. It is our policy to provide equal employment opportunities for all individuals without regard to race, sex, religion, color, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other classification protected by applicable law.
Auburn University is an EEO/Vet/Disability Employer and committed to building an inclusive and diverse community.
