Position SummaryA Research Associate (Postdoc) position is available with Lars Brudvig's research group at Michigan State University ( to help lead a U.S. Forest Service-funded project focused on predicting outcomes of longleaf pine woodland restoration. Central goals of this project are to: 1) Develop predictive models that will anticipate (i.e., forecast) restoration outcomes, 2) Identify conditions that can be used to prioritize highly restorable sites, and 3) Map these predictions to a large (800 km2) landscape, to assist restoration decision making by the U.S. Forest Service.

　　The successful candidate will work with Brudvig and other project team members to analyze existing datasets collected from a large-scale restoration experiment located in South Carolina (time series of plant and bee responses; soils, fire history, and other site attributes) and couple these with GIS layers to generate maps of predicted restoration outcomes. As a group, we have developed initial models in support of Project Goals 1 and 2; we seek a postdoc to refine and expand these models, lead Project Goal 3, and communicate findings through presentations and publications.

　　The position is for one year, with a second year pending satisfactory performance and continued funding. An annual salary of $55,000 and includes full benefits. The position will be based out of East Lansing, with occasional travel to the research site in South Carolina (travel costs covered).

　　A Ph.D. is necessary; competitive applicants will also have demonstrated expertise in written communication and data management/analysis, ideally with developing predictive and/or forecasting models. 

　　Equal Employment Opportunity StatementAll qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

　　Required DegreeDoctorate

　　Minimum RequirementsInterests and previous experience in ecology. Analytical and writing skills.

　　Desired QualificationsDemonstrated expertise in developing predictive and/or forecasting models.

　　Required Application MaterialsCV, cover letter (two pages max) explaining research interests, background, and fit to this project, and contact information for three references.

　　Special InstructionsA complete application will include a CV, cover letter (two pages max) explaining research interests, background, and fit to this project, and contact information for three references. Review of applicants will begin immediately and continue until 5 July 2023, or when a suitable candidate is selected. Feel free to email any questions to Lars Brudvig ([email protected]).

　　Review of Applications Begins On07/05/2023

　　Websitehttps://plantbiology.natsci.msu.edu/

　　MSU StatementMichigan State University has been advancing the common good with uncommon will for more than 160 years. One of the top research universities in the world, MSU pushes the boundaries of discovery and forges enduring partnerships to solve the most pressing global challenges while providing life-changing opportunities to a diverse and inclusive academic community through more than 200 programs of study in 17 degree-granting colleges.