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About This Role:
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This postdoctoral research associate will lead independent and collaborative research to advance understanding of large ungulate grazer influences on grassland soil fertility, by assessing the structure and function of N-cycling microorganisms in grazed and ungrazed tallgrass prairies from centimeter to regional scales. This work is part of a larger 5-year NSF-funded project, and the postdoctoral researcher will be responsible for synthesis of an existing time series of data, as well as independent field observational and experimental sample collection, data collection, analysis and dissemination. The project involves work at bison- and cattle-grazed field sites across the Flint Hills, KS and OK, USA, on both public and private lands, and offers the successful candidate an opportunity to develop their experience translating basic science to rangeland managers.
The position is based in the Division of Biology, Kansas State University, and Kansas-based field and lab work is a required component of the position; however, remote work during portions of the year is possible and negotiable.
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Kansas State University is located in the city of Manhattan (http://www.ci.manhattan.ks.us), a pleasant community of about 50,000 located in the scenic, native tallgrass prairie, Flint Hills region. Local recreational opportunities include a large lake/park system, road and trail biking, hiking trails, hunting and fishing, athletic events, and performing arts. Manhattan also serves as the regional center for education, health care, commerce, entertainment and communications, and is just 2 hours from the larger Kansas City metropolitan area.
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What You’ll Need to Succeed:
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Minimum Requirements:
- Completed a PhD degree in Microbial Ecology or a related field
- Strong organizational skills, including experience with collection, sample handling and processing, and analysis, of large multivariate datasets
- Strong oral communication skills, as demonstrated by maturity and emotional intelligence during interactions with individuals with diverse backgrounds and goals
- Strong written communication skills, including a record of completing manuscripts in a timely fashion
- Ability to conduct productive work both independently and as part of a collaborative team
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience with and understanding of grassland or rangeland ecology and management
- Well prepared to conduct full days of fieldwork under sometimes hot and humid conditions
- Ability to bring creativity and novel perspective to bear on the broad research topic
Other Requirements:
- Valid driver’s license.
- Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States at the time of employment.
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How to Apply:
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Anticipated start timing for this position is Summer 2023, but start date is negotiable. Funding is committed for two years, with contract renewal after the first year contingent on mutually satisfactory progress. The successful applicant will be encouraged to engage in collaborative proposal-writing to further support their own research goals.
Interested applicants should submit a cover letter that explicitly describes their professional qualifications for the position, and how this postdoctoral position complements their career goals. Applicants should also submit a full curriculum vitae, up to three relevant reprints, and contact information for three references.
For more information, contact Dr. Lydia Zeglin
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Background Screening Statement:
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In connection with your application for employment, Kansas State University will procure a Background Screen on you as part of the process of considering your candidacy as an employee.
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