Join the Lab

Recruiting Postdoc

Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Tropical Forest Ecology

Join an international collaboration investigating the role of internal decay (fungal heart rot) and disturbance in shaping tropical forest health. In year 1, this project will center on Barro Colorado Island’s 50-ha ForestGEO plot and use sonic and electrical impedance tomography (detailed methods in Gilbert et al. 2016) to complete the first long-term (10 years), large-scale measurements of heart rot dynamics in any tropical forest, allowing us to explore the causes and consequences of these infections in unprecedented depth. As a key member of a collaborative team of ecologists at all career stages, the Postdoctoral Fellow will play a significant role in determining the project design and execution, including understanding the interplay between heart rot, external tree condition, and their responses to historic damage. We also expect the Postdoctoral Fellow to develop self-directed research. This research fellowship will prioritize opportunities for the postdoc to lead high-impact papers, develop new skills, co-mentor students and interns as they develop guided learning research projects, and engage in professional development activities (e.g., conferences, educational outreach). Yearly stipend of $55,000 USD, with additional research support. We will begin reviewing applications on April 17, 2023 and will begin contacting applicants on May 1 to schedule interviews. All applications will be considered until the position is filled.

Contact Dr. Erin Spear at spearer@si.edu or Dr. Evan Gora at gorae@caryinstitute.org with questions or to discuss research ideas.

This is a one-year appointment (renewable for two additional years). Preferred start between August and December 2023. We will begin reviewing applications on April 17, 2023 and will begin contacting applicants on May 1 to schedule interviews. All applications will be considered until the position is filled.

Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute (STRI) facilities in the town of Gamboa and Barro Colorado Island, Panamá.

Expertise in any of the following fields: forest ecology, mycology, plant biology, disturbance ecology, disease ecology, and/or related fields. Proficiency in R, strong written and verbal communication skills in English, and a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion are required. Spanish language skills and field experience in rugged areas are encouraged. Exceptional candidates will have a competitive publication record. Applicants must have completed a PhD prior to appointment.

Please send your application as a single PDF to spearer@si.edu and Cc gorae@caryinstitute.org. A complete application includes: (1) a one-page cover letter stating your qualifications and career goals in the context of this position; (2) a CV; and (3) the names, affiliations, and contact information for three references. References will only be contacted with prior notification and consent from the applicant. Qualified applicants will be invited for a Zoom interview and asked to provide a 2-page project proposal that integrates the candidate’s research interests with the project’s stated research objectives. We will begin reviewing applications on April 17, 2023 and will begin contacting applicants on May 1 to schedule interviews. All applications will be considered until the position is filled.

STRI is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) and Affirmative Action (AA) employer. It is our policy to provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, familial status, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information.

The Forest Disease Lab is committed to diversity, inclusion, and equity and seeks talented individuals historically underrepresented in STEM.