RESEARCH FELLOW

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How to Apply

Applicants should submit: (1) a cover letter of no more than two pages outlining interest in the position and relevant skills and experience; (2) a CV; and (3) contact information for three references to Matt Friedman ([email protected]) with the subject line “<last name> Application: Friedman NSF-NERC project.” Informal inquires before applying are welcome. Impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on publication records will be considered. Individuals from underrepresented backgrounds are especially encouraged to apply. Review of applications will begin immediately until March 17, 2023.

Summary

The Friedman Lab in the Museum of Paleontology and Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences seeks a postdoctoral research fellow to undertake morphometric and functional analyses of fossil ray-finned fish mandibles, focusing on the first major episode of anatomical radiation of the group during the mid to late Paleozoic. This project is an international collaboration between the University of Michigan, University of Birmingham (UK), Harvard University, and the University of Chicago. Work will draw on three-dimensional data derived from computed tomography. Generation of mandibular models and inference of phylogenetic trees are largely the responsibility of other team members. The Michigan research fellow will use these resources to evaluate hypotheses about evolutionary tempo and mode in a quantitative comparative framework, although they may contribute to other components of the project according to experience and interests. They will also, in coordination with a project technician, help organize and curate project data. The candidate will be trained in project management, scientific writing, presentation, public engagement, and mentoring. This includes opportunities through established initiatives like the Science Communication Fellows program (Museum of Natural History), the Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program (UROP), and the Center for Research on Teaching and Learning (CRLT). Funding is available for the research fellow to attend conferences and visit partner institutions participating in this collaborative project.

Mission Statement

The mission of the University of Michigan is to serve the people of Michigan and the world through preeminence in creating, communicating, preserving and applying knowledge, art, and academic values, and in developing leaders and citizens who will challenge the present and enrich the future.

Responsibilities*

The successful fellow will be responsible for: analyzing functional and shape data in a phylogenetic comparative framework; preparing research findings for presentation at scientific meetings and manuscripts for publication; contributing to proposal writing; working with the project technician on data curation; providing, in conjunction with the PI, mentorship to undergraduate or graduate student that might be involved in the project; contributing to the broader paleontology research group by, for example, giving seminars or providing support for less experienced members; and acting as a role model and fostering an inclusive work environment.

Required Qualifications*

The position requires a PhD in paleontology, evolutionary biology, or a related field. The candidate must be able to work independently and as part of a team. Strong skills in phylogenetic comparative methods, morphometry, and vertebrate morphology are essential. Experience with functional anatomy, especially in relation to feeding, as well as three-dimensional morphological data (from CT scans, photogrammetry, or similar) is highly desirable. It is expected that the candidate will be adept in R or comparable programming language. The applicant should demonstrate prior success in publication of original research. There is no prerequisite that the candidate has previous experience working with fossils or fishes, although both are desired qualifications.

Additional Information

The position comes with a salary of $53,000 and is for 1 year with potential to extension for up to 1 more year depending on performance. The fellow will be based in the Museum of Paleontology at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor.

Background Screening

The University of Michigan conducts background checks on all job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent offer and may use a third party administrator to conduct background checks.  Background checks are performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act.

Application Deadline

Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days.  The review and selection process may begin as early as the eighth day after posting. This opening may be removed from posting boards and filled anytime after the minimum posting period has ended.

U-M EEO/AA Statement

The University of Michigan is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.