The Spigler Lab at Temple University is seeking applications from highly qualified individuals for a Postdoctoral Fellow position in the Department of Biology. The Postdoctoral Fellow will be involved in an ongoing project on variation in the mating system and phenotypic selection on floral traits across fragmented populations of a native wildflower species. In addition, the Postdoctoral Fellow will be integrally involved in the design and implementation of new field and/or greenhouse studies related to areas that suit the combined interests of the successful candidate and Spigler Lab, such as mating system and floral trait evolution, plant-pollinator interactions, plant-seed predator dynamics, demography, and/or population genetics. There will also be numerous opportunities to mentor undergraduates in research and to participate in outreach efforts. Additional information about the Spigler lab can be found at http://rachelspigler.weebly.com.
Candidates must have a (1) PhD in Ecology, Evolutionary Biology, Botany, or related field; (2) an interest in plant reproductive ecology and evolutionary biology; (3) experience conducting and managing field and greenhouse studies; and (4) experience with statistics and software packages appropriate for ecological data. Excellent interpersonal, communication, and time-management skills, a strong work ethic, and attention to detail are also essential. Additional preferred qualifications include standard molecular skills (e.g., DNA extraction, PCR, microsatellite genotyping) and related statistical experience. The position is available immediately and to last for one year, with the possibility of extension based on satisfactory progress and funding. Start date is flexible, but preference will be given to applicants who can start Spring 2015. Generous salary and benefits are provided. Interested applicants should send the following as a SINGLE PDF file by email to Rachel Spigler ([email protected]): 1) a short statement (one to two pages) on research interests, previous experience, and motivation for applying, 2) your curriculum vitae, and 3) contact information for three references. Informal inquiries about the position are welcome and may also be made to Rachel at [email protected]. Review of applications will begin on February 1, 2015 and continue until the position is filled. About the Biology Department at Temple University Temple University is a large, comprehensive public research university in Philadelphia, PA, with more than 37,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students enrolled in over 400 academic degrees. The Biology Department at Temple University (https://bio.cst.temple.edu/) represents an active research community with strengths in ecology, genomics, conservation, and evolutionary biology. The Biology Department is also home to the newly formed Center for Biodiversity (http://cst.temple.edu/research/centers-and-institutes/center-biodiversity), Center for Computational Genetics and Genomics (https://bio.cst.temple.edu/~hey/CCGG/), and Institute for Genomics and Evolutionary Medicine (http://igem.temple.edu/). Philadelphia is the fifth largest city in the US, rich in history, known for its arts and culture, and is brimming with a vibrant science community. There are approximately 90 colleges and universities in the Greater Philadelphia region, with plenty of opportunities for collaboration. Recreational science activities abound, including Science on Tap, a monthly science café that features a brief, informal presentation by a scientist or other expert followed by lively conversation, the Academy of Natural Sciences, the Wagner Free Institute of Science, and the annual Philadelphia Science Festival. Philadelphia is also home to Fairmount Park, one of the worlds largest city park systems.
