Post-Doctoral Associate

Job duties

75% Research about beavers in North America and their biophysical impacts

• Collect, analyze, and interpret eDNA from beaver-influenced areas in the Great Lakes Region and the American West to determine how they influence other species of interest.
• Integrate eDNA data with existing geospatial and satellite remote sensing data to model landscape-scale beaver impacts during disturbance events (e.g., wildfire, drought, flood).

20%

• Writing, Publications, and Outreach
• Write manuscripts for peer-reviewed publications based upon research findings.
• Develop oral presentation materials detailing research findings
• Attend conference(s) relevant to research and share findings
• Write and co-write grant proposals to support extending existing projects to larger spatial scopes, longer timescales, and/or novel ecosystems
• Engage in outreach events in the community to share research findings with the public
• Establish and maintain relationships with project partners, stakeholders, and collaborators

5% Lab Management and Mentoring

• Support purchasing equipment and supplies for laboratory work
• Support managing eDNA laboratory users and physical space
• Mentor junior users of the eDNA facility

Required qualifications

• A PhD in ecology, biology, environmental science or a related discipline by the start date

Preferred qualifications

• Strong knowledge of and research experience with molecular metabarcoding techniques and single species molecular techniques
• Strong knowledge of beaver ecosystem engineering
• Previous experience conducting field work at large (e.g., catchment) scales
• Previous experience with hydrologic surveys, electrofishing, and other related ecohydrological field methods
• Previous experience working with salmonids
• Previous experience working with community organizations, media, and/or outreach
• Previous experience mentoring others in eDNA techniques
• Previous experience with geospatial softwares, i.e., ArcGIS, QGIS, or EarthEngine
• Previous experience working with beaver reintroduction or rewilding efforts
• Strong writing and public communication skills
• Strong organizational skills and interpersonal skills

Dr. Emily Fairfax, an interdisciplinary researcher housed in the Department of Geography, Society, and the Environment in the College of Liberal Arts, as well as the St. Anthony Falls Laboratory within the College of Science and Engineering, is seeking a postdoctoral researcher to bring expertise in molecular techniques to existing research areas in the lab.

Pay Range: $68,000 - $70,000 per year; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment: 100% Appointment

Position Type: Faculty and P&A Staff

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost
• Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area

While our salary ranges provide a framework, it is important to note that most of the
time, the initial pay may not reach the maximum of the range. This approach ensures
that compensation reflects the value and unique contributions of each candidate while
maintaining equity within our organization. As part of our commitment to fair and
equitable compensation, please be aware that the salary offered to incoming candidates
will be based on their individual credentials and experience.

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

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