The Muthukrishnan Integrative Ecology Lab ( https://integratedecology.weebly.com/) at St. Olaf College, in collaboration with researchers at Boston University and Texas A&M Corpus Christi, is hiring a theoretical modeling Postdoctoral Research Associate. The position is associated with a project studying the evolutionary drivers and ecological consequences of dispersal plasticity in marine fish. Information about the position and a link to apply can be found on the St. Olaf HR website (https://shorturl.at/NYYXN) and further details are included below. Please note that we are currently hiring 2 separate postdoctoral positions, make sure you are applying to the correct one. Feel free to reach out to me if you have any questions or would like to discuss any additional details (ranjan.muthukrish...@gmail.com).
Best, Ranjan Muthukrishnan, PhD Assistant Professor 418 Regents Hall Department of Biology St. Olaf College Northfield, MN 55057 *Postdoctoral Research Associate – **Theoretical Ecological and Evolutionary Modeling* *Position Title: *Postdoctoral Research Associate * Department: *Biology * Location:* St. Olaf College, Northfield, Minnesota (part of the broader Minneapolis metro area). *Appointment:* Full-time (100% FTE), 12 months/year *Term: *2 years (initial 1 year appointment with potential for reappointment pending satisfactory progress) *Salary:* $61,000 *Preferred Start Date:* June 1, 2025 (negotiable) *Application Deadline:* Open until filled *Classification: *Exempt * FTE: 1.0 * *Position Overview* The Muthukrishnan Lab at St. Olaf College (integratedecology.weebly.com), in collaboration with the Buston and Davies Labs (Boston University) and the Majoris Lab (Texas A&M University, Corpus Christi) seeks a highly motivated *Postdoctoral Research Associate* focused on theoretical ecological and evolutionary modeling to join our interdisciplinary team. The position is part of an NSF funded project that aims to understand the patterns and causes of marine larval dispersal, by investigating the plasticity of larval dispersal traits in response to variation in parental environments. The postdoctoral associate will primarily focus on developing a spatially explicit modeling framework to assess the evolutionary drivers and ecological consequences of dispersal plasticity. We will then work with collaborators to parameterize the model with empirical data from associated lab and field studies. This project offers an opportunity to work on cutting edge research on trait plasticity including both theoretical evolutionary biology and the genomic and molecular basis for plasticity. The position will be located at St. Olaf College in Minnesota, but it is expected that the selected candidate will travel to Boston University multiple times over the course of the project to facilitate collaboration with other team members. St. Olaf College is a nationally recognized liberal arts institution in Northfield, Minnesota (just outside of, and in commuting distance from, Minneapolis) with a strong commitment to research, scholarship, and mentorship. The college provides an intellectually rich environment where postdoctoral researchers can advance their scientific expertise while gaining valuable experience in interdisciplinary collaboration and undergraduate mentorship. St. Olaf offers modern research facilities, opportunities for independent and collaborative research, and a supportive academic community that values both scientific innovation and professional development. *Key Responsibilities:* ● Develop and apply theoretical models to evaluate the evolutionary causes and ecological consequences of dispersal plasticity. ● Collaborate with a diverse team of PIs, Co-PIs, and collaborators from BU and TAMUCC to integrate modeling results with empirical data. ● Prepare manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed journals and present research findings at scientific conferences. ● Contribute to the training and mentoring of undergraduate and graduate students involved in the project. *Qualifications* *Required:* ● A Ph.D. in Ecology, Evolutionary Biology, Theoretical Biology, or a related field. ● Strong background in theoretical modeling and quantitative analysis in ecological and evolutionary contexts. ● Proficiency analyzing data and developing simulation models in R ● Excellent written and verbal communication skills. ● Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team. ● Dedication to creating an inclusive environment *Preferred:* ● Experience with developing and implementing ecological and evolutionary models. ● Knowledge of marine population dynamics and dispersal theories. ● Previous experience in mentoring and teaching at the undergraduate or graduate level. *Commitment to Inclusion and Diversity:* Our research group is committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment where individuals from diverse backgrounds and experiences can thrive. We strongly encourage applications from candidates of all races, ethnicities, gender identities, sexual orientations, socioeconomic backgrounds, and physical abilities. We value diverse perspectives and believe that a broad range of experiences strengthens our scientific community. If you have any questions about accommodations or working in our group, we encourage you to reach out. *How to Apply* Interested applicants should submit: 1. *Cover letter* detailing their research interests, qualifications, and experience relevant to the position. 2. *Curriculum vitae (CV)* 3. *Contact information for three references* 4. *Two writing samples* (e.g., published papers, reports, or dissertation chapters) Applications must be submitted online, see https://shorturl.at/NYYXN for further details and to apply. *Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.* Applicants will be reviewed by the project PIs and selected candidates will be interviewed over Zoom. If you have any questions, including about your fit for the position, please feel free to email *Dr. Ranjan Muthukrishnan* at ranjan.muthukrish...@gmail.com to discuss. 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