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Postdoctoral Research Associate

Employer
Texas A&M University Corpus Christi
Location
Texas, United States
Salary
Salary Not specified
Date posted
Mar 22, 2024

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Position Type
Faculty Positions, Science, Technology & Mathematics, Statistics
Employment Level
Post-Doc
Employment Type
Full Time



Job Title
Postdoctoral Research Associate

Agency
Texas A&M University - Corpus Christi

Department
College of Science - Life Sciences

Proposed Minimum Salary
Commensurate

Job Location
Corpus Christi, Texas

Job Type
Staff

Job Description

TAMU-CC is a dynamic university designated as both a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) and Minority-Serving Institution (MSI) with approximately 11,000 students from 47 states and 54 foreign nations. We employ over 1,400 full-time and 2,000 part-time Islanders (including students/GAs). The University attracts highly talented faculty and staff and offers an array of undergraduate and graduate degrees, including doctoral programs. As a member of the Texas A&M University System, TAMU-CC benefits from a range of resources, increased visibility and influence, and opportunities to collaborate in mutually beneficial ways with peers across member institutions and associated agencies.

TAMU-CC's beautiful campus is located on a 240-acre island on Corpus Christi Bay and was ranked #1 College by the Sea by Best College Reviews. Our natural setting is enhanced by its modern, attractive, and state-of-the-art classroom buildings and support facilities.

Learn more information here!

PURPOSE
  • The Postdoctoral research position will be part of the McCracken Lab in the Department of Life Sciences at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi.
  • The successful candidate will advance research in biodiversity, species distribution modeling, movement/habitat use and conservation, with a particular focus on amphibians and reptiles (herpetofauna).


DESCRIPTION

Seeking a highly motivated and skilled Postdoctoral researcher to join an interdisciplinary team dedicated to advancing research in biodiversity, species distribution, habitat use, and conservation, with a particular focus on amphibians and reptiles. The successful candidate will employ a suite of methodological approaches to study herpetofauna in south Texas and will analyze spatial and temporal patterns to understand their ecological needs and conservation status. They will also be responsible for preparing publications and reports on research results and assist with mentoring undergraduate and graduate students conducting field work and data analysis. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to critical conservation efforts and to advance our understanding of herpetofaunal ecology.

Functional Area 1: Research

Percent Effort: 30%

Job Duties
  • Contribute to the design and implementation of field studies to collect data on amphibian and reptile biodiversity, species distributions, movement and habitat use. Focus is on Texas Species of Greatest Conservation Need (SGCN's), with funded projects investigating the Texas Scarlet snake, Texas Diamondback terrapin, and the Black-spotted newt.
  • Employ a range of tools and techniques including camera traps, AHDriFT, automated recording devices, eDNA sampling and traditional surveys to collect data.
  • Collect morphometric and biological sample data for genetic and disease analyses. (i.e. blood, tissue, swabs, etc.)


Functional Area 2: Data Analysis

Percent Effort: 30%

Job Duties
  • Build species distribution models for focal SGCN's to inform research and conservation strategies.
  • Use machine/deep learning approaches for species detection and identification.
  • Apply biodiversity and movement statistics (including hierarchical modeling) to analyze data.


Functional Area 3: Disseminate Research Results

Percent Effort: 30%

Job Duties
  • Lead the preparation of research findings for publication in peer-reviewed national/international journals; and present results at local, regional, national, and international meetings.
  • Engage with local communities, stakeholders, and conservation organizations to disseminate research findings and promote conservation initiatives.
  • Provide engaging research updates for communication platforms including social media and other media outlets, as applicable.
  • Contribute to the preparation of interim and final reports for projects.


Functional Area 4: Other

Percent Effort: 10%

Job Duties
  • Assist with mentorship of undergraduate and graduate students conducting field work and data analysis.
  • Assist with monthly travel and expense reporting.
  • Assist with permitting and IACUC protocols.
  • Contribute to the development of grant proposals to secure funding for ongoing and future research projects.
  • Engage with our departmental and university-wide academic community.


QUALIFICATIONS
  • PhD in ecology, wildlife biology/ecology, conservation biology, statistics, applied mathematics, or a related field.
  • Strong organizational and quantitative skills, including expertise in data management and statistical analysis (Program R).
  • Proven track record of publishing scientific research in peer-reviewed journals.
  • Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to engage effectively with a range of audiences.
  • Demonstrated experience in conducting field research in challenging environments.
  • Ability to safely carry 50 lbs. and work in and around aquatic environments.
  • Valid US driver's license and ability to operate 4-wheel drive vehicles.


PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Experience with GIS software and species distribution modeling.
  • Research experience with vertebrates, preferably herpetofauna. Including collection of biological samples such as blood and tissue, and implanting PIT tags.
  • Experience with field survey methods such as traditional herpetofauna techniques, eDNA sampling, AHDriFT, camera traps, and/or acoustic monitoring.


SALARY

Approx. $4,375 monthly (Approx. $52,500 Annually)

BENEFITS (rules, policies, eligibility apply)

From our generous benefits package and professional development opportunities, to our retirement programs and our commitment to service excellence, the Island University is an engaging and rewarding place to work.

Insurance
  • Medical
    • $0 - $30 per month for Employee Only coverage after university contribution ($920 value).
    • Up to 83% of premium covered by the university:
      • Employee and Spouse
      • Employee and Children
      • Employee and Family coverage
  • Dental & Vision
  • Life Insurance, Accidental D&D, Long Term Disability, Flexible Spending Account and Day Care Spending Account


On-campus wellness opportunities

Work Life Solutions:
  • Counseling, Work Life Assistance, Financial Resources, and Legal Resources


Tuition Benefits:
  • Public Loan Forgiveness
  • Book scholarships
  • 100% tuition coverage for up to 18 credit hours per fiscal year (other rules may apply).


Retirement
  • Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS) or Optional Retirement Plan (ORP)
  • Voluntary Tax Deferred Account/Deferred Compensation Plan


Time Off:
  • 8+ hours of vacation paid time off every month.
  • 8 hours of sick leave time off every month.
  • 8 hours of paid time off for Birthday leave.
  • 12-15 paid holidays each year.


All positions are security-sensitive. Applicants are subject to a criminal history investigation, and employment is contingent upon the institution's verification of credentials and/or other information required by the institution's procedures, including the completion of the criminal history check.

Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action/Veterans/Disability Employer.


To apply, visit https://tamus.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/en-US/TAMUCC_External/job/Corpus-Christi-TX/Postdoctoral-Research-Associate_R-071801



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