Associate Research Scientist

The Olo Be Taloha Lab in the Climate School at Columbia University invites applicants for an Associate Research Scientist position. This appointment is full-time and located at the Columbia University Lamont Doherty Earth Observatory campus in Palisades, New York.

The Associate Research Scientist will focus on interactions between plant and microbial community physiology and assemblage and climate, with an emphasis on the spatial and temporal relationships of these biogeochemical systems to social inequity and critical theories of power.  The Associate Research Scientist will develop a research program that addresses questions about ecosystem responses to past and ongoing institutionalized power disparities, with a geographic focus on post-colonial landscapes, especially across the African and Afro-descendant diaspora. The research program can include both empirical and quantitative (e.g., modeling) approaches. The Associate Research Scientist will be expected to perform original research, present the results of the research at scientific meetings, and publish first-author papers in peer-reviewed journals. The Associate Research Scientist will also co-lead the development of proposals for external research funding.

The Associate Research Scientist should have extensive expertise in terrestrial biogeochemistry, plant ecophysiology, microbial ecology, and critical ecology. Applicants should have established experience leading high-impact multidisciplinary research teams, demonstrated a record of significant research contributions and thought leadership through publications in peer-reviewed journals, success in raising external funding for research, and be able to contribute broadly to research and community-building in the Olo Be Taloha Lab. 

Minimum Qualifications:

• Successful applicants must possess a Ph.D. in biogeochemistry or a similar field and have at least 3 years of post-PhD related experience
• Demonstrate leadership in developing interdisciplinary research across biophysical and social disciplines
• Strong communication, technical, and leadership skills
• Strong past experience in ecological field research, data analysis, and management

Appointments are made on a fiscal year basis and are eligible for renewal each July 1st, contingent upon performance and funding.

The search will remain open for at least 30 days after the ad appears and will continue until the position is filled.

Columbia University benefits accompany this Officer of Research appointment.

We accept online applications only.

For more information about this position and to submit your application, please use the link provided in this posting.