What are the responsibilities and job description for the Postdoctoral Researcher position at Field Museum?
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How modern and past biodiversity originated and accumulated over time and space is one of the most active research areas in evolutionary ecology and biogeography. Island systems such as the Caribbean have been of particular interest because of their high species richness and endemism threatened by human activities. The study of the Caribbean biota was also fundamental in establishing the modern theoretical framework of island biography and how evolutionary processes like adaptative radiation unfold. However, the origin, evolution, and accumulation of this biota since the formation of the islands remain poorly understood.
This project aims to use a holistic approach to understand how biodiversity hotspots originate on islands using phylogenetic comparative methods across multiple vertebrate clades from the Caribbean combined with new paleontological data from Paleogene and Neogene. We seek PhD-level candidates demonstrating experience in the Caribbean biota, ancestral range reconstructions, competency with at least one scripting language (e.g. Python, R), and interest in applying new statistical approaches. Additionally, we are looking for candidates with experience in museum specimen curation and preparation, and experience with collecting fossils. The candidate will join an international team of evolutionary biologists and paleontologists. The selected candidate is expected to demonstrate leadership ability to assist the PIs with the guidance and training of students. We seek a candidate who is sensitive to and enthused to work with and train students from underrepresented groups in STEM.
The successful candidate will work with Assistant Curator of Mammals Anderson Feijó and MacArthur Curator of Paleomammalogy Ken Angielczyk. The candidate is expected to publish at least two research papers as lead author and to conduct research at the Field Museum. This is a one-year contract with the possibility of renewal. Candidates from diverse backgrounds are highly encouraged to apply.
Please contact Anderson Feijó (afeijo@fieldmuseum.org) about any questions and apply online at https://www.fieldmuseum.org/about/careers. Complete application materials include a statement of interest, CV with publication list, and contact information of 3 professional references. Review of applications will begin on April 2nd, 2025, and continue until the position is filled.
Pay: $48,000
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The Field Museum is an equal-opportunity employer. We are committed to providing a workplace free from discrimination, embracing diversity, and fostering mutual respect. We value the unique perspectives each team member brings, which empowers our ability to innovate and overcome challenges.
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Salary : $48,000
