Postdoctoral Research Associate

The Pollinator Lab at the Oklahoma Biological Survey is seeking a highly motivated and collaborative postdoc who possesses demonstrated skills in pollinator ecology and conservation, pollination biology, plant reproductive biology, biogeography, urban ecology, and/or climate change ecology. The overall goal of this position is to enhance our understanding of how best to preserve pollinator biodiversity and ecological function in a changing planet. The successful applicant will have a large degree of flexibility with respect to the exact topics of research and approaches taken; and will be expected to interact synergistically with other lab members (e.g., collaborations, mentorship in an official or unofficial capacity). 

The postdoctoral researcher will be employed in the Oklahoma Biological Survey at the University of Oklahoma, supervised by PI Dr. K.L. James Hung. The position can be renewed annually as funding allows, and there will be opportunities for the postdoctoral researcher to coauthor grants with the PI and other researchers at the University of Oklahoma. The successful candidate will have access to the resources and expertise at the Oklahoma Biological Survey and the affiliated School of Biological Sciences, and will receive training in professional and personal development, research collaboration, presentation and publication of results, proposal development, outreach, and mentoring. The positions include a competitive salary and health insurance. Review of applications will begin March 1, 2024 and will continue until the position is filled. A start date between April and May 2024 is desired.

Responsibilities:

• Perform basic and applied research on pollinator ecology and conservation, pollination biology, plant reproductive biology, biogeography, urban ecology, and/or climate change ecology, mentor graduate and undergraduate students. 

Required documents include a full CV, a cover letter explaining why you feel that you are a good fit for this position and vice versa, a research proposal outlining one or several potential projects you would like to lead in the Hung lab, and up to three writing samples (can be dissertation chapter, published paper, or manuscript in review). Please submit these documents to Dr. James Hung ([email protected]).

Required Education: PhD in Ecology, Evolution, or Organismal Biology

Skills:

• Proven expertise in ecology, evolutionary biology, or organismal biology is essential.
• Outstanding quantitative, writing, and presentation skills are expected.
• The ability to plan and execute a project independently is required; the ability to participate creatively in collaborative teams is expected.
• A track record of peer-reviewed publications is expected (manuscripts in revision at leading journals are acceptable).

Department Preferences:

• Preferred qualifications include prior experience working with plants and/or arthropods
• Candidates with skills in the following are particularly encouraged to apply: Population genetics, analysis of large datasets (biodiversity, landscape, or climate data), arthropod taxonomy, experimental biology, agroecology.

Special Instructions: If you are selected as a final candidate for this position, you will be subject to The University of Oklahoma Norman Campus Tuberculosis Testing policy.  To view the policy, visit https://hr.ou.edu/Policies-Handbooks/TB-Testing.

Why You Belong at the University of Oklahoma: The University of Oklahoma fosters an inclusive culture of respect and civility, belonging, and access, which are essential to our collective pursuit of excellence and our determination to change lives. The unique talents, perspectives, and experiences of our community enrich the learning, and working environment at OU, inspiring us to harness our innovation, creativity, and collaboration for the advancement of people everywhere.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement: The University of Oklahoma, in compliance with all applicable federal and state laws and regulations, does not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, genetic information, gender identity, gender expression, age, religion, disability, political beliefs, or status as a veteran in any of its policies, practices, or procedures. This includes, but is not limited to, admissions, employment, financial aid, housing, services in educational programs or activities, and health care services that the University operates or provides.