We anticipate two fulltime postdoctoral research associate positions for the beginning of 2014 (or sooner) at the University of Florida in the Department of Wildlife Ecology and Conservation (www.wec.ufl.edu). The candidates will be members of a multi-PI team (Austin, Oli, Branch, Miller) that is overseeing a large multi-faceted study on beach mouse demographics and behavior.
The research undertaken in one position will focus on the analysis of demographics and genetics of Perdido Key beach mice. Data to be collected and analyzed will include detailed demographic and life history data, the effects of human=96altered habitats on dispersal sub-population connectivity. Genetic data will be used to evaluate individual dispersal using pedigree-based approaches. In addition, the candidate will undertake an independent project focusing on the biogeographic history of beach mice (subspp of Peromyscus polionotus).
The second position will focus on assessment of impacts of human-altered habitats and natural landscape dynamics on the behavior of the Perdido Key beach mice, with special emphasis on movement and sub-population connectivity. The postdoctoral researcher will be responsible for designing experiments and other approaches to evaluate beach mouse behavior at the landscape scale and for data analysis. Roads are a key landscape element to be evaluated in this study. This system also is ideal for investigating a broad set of questions within the framework of behavioral landscape ecology. Thus, candidates with interest in road ecology and candidates a broader interest in behavioral landscape ecology are encouraged to apply. Behavioral data will complement detailed demographic and life history data and genetic evaluation of dispersal, conducted by other team members.
Requirements: A PhD in ecology or evolutionary biology. The candidates will be expected to have research experience relevant to the respective position. For example, experience focusing on the estimation of population vital rates or experience studying dispersal and movement behavior. Additional requirements include demonstrated experience with project management, ability to conduct fieldwork, and statistical analysis of demographic data, GIS, data management and production of publications, ability to work within deadlines. A valid drivers license is required.
The study site is located at Perdido Key, a barrier island located at the extreme western extent of the Florida panhandle. A significant portion of time will be spent at the field site, overseeing data collection and managing field crews. The main location will be in Gainesville at the University of Florida.
Outcomes: The candidates will be responsible for the production of a final report on the government-funded project, and will produce publications for peer-reviewed journals. The positions will be funded for two years (pending funding); annual salary is expected to be $47,000 plus fringe benefits.
For further information:
Dr. James Austin
Dept. Wildlife Ecology and Conservation
University of Florida
Gainesville, FL 32611
352-846-0646
austinj@ufl.edu