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NRRI Post-Doctoral Associate-Aquatic Ecology

Posted: 
03/30/2022
Expiration Date: 
04/30/2022

Natural Resources Research Institute
NRRI Post-Doctoral Associate-Aquatic Ecology (9546)
Job Opening: 345884
Supervisor: Valerie Brady
This position will remain opened until filled

About the Job:

The Natural Resources Research Institute at the University of Minnesota Duluth is hiring a Post-Doctoral Associate to work within our Water Research Group (https://nrri.umn.edu/research/research-platforms/applied-ecology-and-res...). Individuals with expertise in any of several aquatic ecology disciplines would fit well with our teams, including (but not limited to) expertise in wetland plant ecology (preferred), hydrology or hydrogeology, restoration ecology (aquatic focus), stream or wetland ecology, aquatic toxicology or fisheries ecology. The candidate will work with Dr. Valerie Brady and her team in the Freshwater Ecosystem Research and Monitoring Lab (https://nrri.umn.edu/research/freshwater-ecosystem-lab) on research projects related to understanding stream, wetland, and Great Lakes nearshore ecology, including effects of aquatic invasive species, use of biotic metrics to assess ecological condition, and assessing the success of restoration activities.

The postdoctoral fellow may define a research project within any of these research projects that fits their skill set and will have access to unpublished data collected over several decades to support and jump-start their own research. The successful candidate will be expected to conduct their research in collaboration with the Brady lab team and to assist in writing manuscripts for publication and research proposals. The Post-Doctoral Associate will have the opportunity to participate in the Great Lakes Coastal Wetland Monitoring Program (https://www.greatlakeswetlands.org/). The successful candidate will be able to write proposals and disseminate research results through journal publications and conference presentations.

Terms of Employment:

This appointment is a 100%-time, 12-month position with benefits. It is anticipated that this position will be in place for 2 years. An initial appointment period runs 1 year, with renewal for the second year dependent on successful performance and availability of funds. This is a professional training position, job classification 9546. Salary range is $48,426 - $51,000, depending on qualifications. The ability to move to Duluth, Minnesota, to work with the team in-person is required but the timing of the move is negotiable. Desired start date (virtual or in-person) is early summer, 2022.

Job Duties:

  • 40% - Design and conduct own research project within ongoing research projects as befits expertise.
  • 30% - Assist with ongoing field and laboratory research projects, as commensurate with expertise.
  • 30% - Assist with or lead proposal and manuscript writing.

Required Qualifications:

  • Ph.D. degree in a field related to aquatic ecology, hydrology, or aquatic toxicology or related area by the time of employment.
  • Minimum of one peer-reviewed journal publication.
  • Evidence of strong oral communication skills in English (e.g., seminars and conference presentations).
  • Solid knowledge of advanced statistical approaches for analyzing large ecological datasets.
  • Valid US driver’s license and clean driving record.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Expertise compliments and adds to the Water Research Group expertise mix.
  • At least 2 peer-reviewed publications.
  • Proven ability to work both independently and as part of a collaborative team.
  • Demonstrated experience writing and submitting research proposals.
  • Demonstrated ability to conceptualize, organize and lead research projects.
  • Physical ability to do strenuous field work.
  • Ability to travel for fieldwork for up to a week several times per field season.

About the Department:

The Natural Resources Research Institute was established by the Minnesota legislature in 1983 as an applied science and engineering research organization to inform state citizens and decision-makers while leveraging the power of the University of Minnesota. NRRI is guided by the forward-looking charter provided by the Legislature to foster the economic development of Minnesota’s natural resources in an environmentally sound manner to promote private sector employment.

NRRI’s mission is to deliver integrated research solutions that value our resources, environment, and economy for a sustainable and resilient future. We are a mission-driven, project-focused team working to create opportunities for natural resource stewardship. With industrial-scale facilities in Duluth and Coleraine, MN, NRRI works across five strategic research platforms. These platforms address Minnesota’s soil, forest, water, and mineral resources:

• Applied Ecology and Resource Management
• Minerals and Metallurgy
• Materials and Bioeconomy
• Data Collection and Delivery
• Commercialization Services

How to Apply:

Applications must be submitted online. To apply for this position, go to http://www1.umn.edu/ohr/employment/ and search for Job opening #345884. A complete application will consist of:

● A detailed cover letter.

● A current curriculum vita.

● Contact information for three professional references.

● A writing sample (manuscript preferred).

Applications will be accepted until the position is filled; review of applications is ongoing.

The cover letter, CV and a writing sample must be attached during the application process. First submit the application and then return to the “My Activities” page to attach the additional documents.

Please send any inquiries to Jane Dzuck, jtdzuck@d.umn.edu.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-UOHR (8647).

***Smoking and chewing tobacco and the use of electronic cigarettes is prohibited on all UMD property, including indoor facilities, campus grounds and University vehicles. **

Employment Requirements:

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

Please note: All employees at the University of Minnesota are required to report complete vaccination against COVID-19 or submit documentation requesting a medical or religious exemption on their first day of employment. To learn more, please visit the University's COVID-19 Response webpage.

Diversity:

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu.