The new Minneapolis-St. Paul (MSP) Urban Long Term Ecological Research (LTER) project, funded by the National Science Foundation, is seeking a postdoctoral scientist to join our research team. The MSP-LTER team is building a long-term program of research related to urban nature. This post doc will lead a project investigating why species vary in their tolerance to urban toxins. We are considering suites of toxins elevated in human dominated environments, including heavy metals, salts, nutrient pollution, and microplastics. We are taking a comparative approach, contrasting species of butterflies, bees, and other animals, testing how their evolutionary history with toxins, and certain ecological and behavioral traits, shape toxin tolerance. The position will present opportunities for collaborations within the MSP LTER, as well for engaging with community partners and the LTER network. Start time of the position is somewhat flexible, as early as July 2021 and as late as May 2022. For more information on the MSP LTER see https://mspurbanlter.umn.edu/
New applications will be reviewed until the position is filled, but application before May 15, 2021 is encouraged to ensure full consideration. To apply, submit a CV, statement of research interests, and contact information for three references to https://hr.myu.umn.edu/jobs/
Required Qualifications:
- PhD in Ecology, Evolutionary Biology, or related fields
- Experience with analysis of comparative datasets
- Ability to work independently, and effectively work with a large team
- Commitment to broad engagement with the LTER, external partners and the public
Preferred Qualifications include one or more of the following:
- Experience with insect pollinators (butterflies, bees) or other invertebrates
- Experience in urban ecology or anthropogenic change
- Experience with ecotoxicology, heavy metals, or anthropogenic chemical stressors
- Some proficiency with GIS
Duties:
- 40% Designing and conducting field and experimental work studying urban insect pollinators
- 40% Synthesis and analysis of comparative data across species of insect pollinators
- 10% Manuscript writing
- 10% Coordinate and participate in LTER meetings, and working groups
