Diversity and Climate Change: using elevational gradients to uncover processes underlying mammalian species distributions
Location: The postdoc will be based in the lab of Dr. Christy McCain at the University of Colorado at Boulder in the Dept. of Ecology & Evolutionary Biology and the CU Museum. Extensive summer field work will be focused in two regions of the Colorado Rockies: the Front Range and the San Juan Mountains. Description: Small mammal distributions will be examined on two contrasting mountain systems in the Southern Rocky Mountains to test hypotheses related to the maintenance of biological diversity and to detect range shifts due to climate change. Three elevational transects within each mountain range will be surveyed to document diversity, species distributions, population trends, climate, food resources, and habitat characteristics. Comparisons between current ranges and historical distributions at a landscape scale will determine the degree of range shifts associated with documented climate changes. Requirements: PhD in ecology, zoology or a related field conferred no later than June 2010. Extensive field experience in small mammal trapping, systematic sampling methodology, and quantitative data analysis required. Experience with climate monitoring, vegetation sampling, GIS, global change biology or related areas is desirable. Demonstrated proficiency in publishing, question-driven research, and detail-oriented, conscientious application of scientific methods. Skills needed in communication and collaboration with PI, graduate and undergraduate students; and a desire to mentor budding scientists. Valid drivers license and ability to drive a 4WD vehicle on backcountry roads. The project has a set of specific research foci, but there will be opportunity for independent and collaborative exploration of related topics. Starting salary will be $42,000 with full benefits. Minimum commitment is one year with an opportunity of up to three years based on performance. Please send a letter of interest, CV, and 3 references to Christy McCain at [email protected]. Application Deadline: Review of applicants will begin on March 15 and will continue until the post is filled. Preferred start date is May 1, 2010.
