Postdoc in process-based modeling of species distributions, University of California Santa Cruz
A two-year postdoctoral position is available in the Global Change Research Group and Kroeker Lab in the Department of Ecology & Evolutionary Biology at the University of California Santa Cruz to develop process-based models and projections of species distributions. The position is ideally suited to researchers with an interest in spatial population dynamics and hierarchical Bayesian modeling. There is room for independence in addition to at least a partial focus on species interactions on a project funded by the UCSC Center for Coastal Climate Resilience.
The postdoc will join a collaborative team across marine science, climate science, and fisheries social science, including partners in the Southwest Fisheries Science Center, Ocean Sciences, and the Institute of Marine Sciences. The postdoc will have the opportunity to mentor graduate and undergraduate students, design and lead research, manage and analyze large datasets, prepare conference presentations and manuscripts, and coordinate a research collaboration. Research in the Global Change Research Group uses empirical data, mathematical models, and population genomics to study how ecosystems adapt to climate change and variability (https://globalchange.sites.ucsc.edu). Research in the Kroeker Lab uses experiments and field observations to study the emergent effects of environmental change (http://kristy-kroeker.squarespace.com/).
The ideal candidate will be skilled with spatial- and size-structured population models, statistics, and the Stan programming language. Applicants with evidence of creativity, productivity, strong oral and written communication abilities, and enthusiasm are especially encouraged to apply, particularly those that bring a new perspective, new ideas, or a new skillset to the team. A promising record of publication is highly valued. The successful applicant will be an independent, motivated problem solver who communicates well and enjoys working in a collaborative setting.
The work environment will be on the beautiful Coastal Science Campus at UCSC within a short walk of the ocean and easy access to mountains and open space. The EEB department offers a diverse, exciting, and supportive environment for learning and research and is complemented by colleagues at the Institute for Marine Science, the Coastal Science and Policy Program, NOAA Fisheries, the Center for Coastal Climate Resilience, and others.
Position details
The postdoc start dates are flexible, though earlier dates (e.g., fall 2023) are preferred. Starting salary range is $64,480 to $69,342 per year and includes health insurance and other benefits. This is a two-year appointment.
Application process
Review of applications is ongoing as of October 2, 2023. Interested candidates should submit: 1) a one-page cover letter that describes their interest in the position, their relevant skills and experience, and their preferred start date, 2) a CV, and 3) the names and contact information of three scientists familiar with their work. Submit by email to mpinsky@ucsc.edu.
Malin Pinsky
Associate Professor
Department of Ecology & Evolutionary Biology
University of California Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
USA
mpinsky@ucsc.edu