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Postdoctoral Position Ecological Modeling Jobs in California

Postdoctoral Scholar

Bodega Bay, CA · On-site

$69K - $107K/yr

... position utilizing universal potentials, machine learning interatomic potentials, atomistic ... Data analysis, scientific model development, and machine control in Python, C++, or other common ...

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Postdoctoral Position Ecological Modeling information

What is a postdoctoral position in ecological modeling?

A postdoctoral position in ecological modeling is a temporary research role, typically held after earning a PhD, focused on using mathematical, statistical, or computational models to study ecological systems. Postdocs in this field often work on projects related to ecosystem dynamics, species interactions, conservation strategies, or climate change impacts. These roles involve designing models, analyzing data, publishing research, and sometimes mentoring students. The goal is to advance scientific knowledge and develop professional skills for future independent research or academic positions.

What are some typical collaborative opportunities for postdoctoral researchers in ecological modeling?

Postdoctoral researchers in ecological modeling often work closely with interdisciplinary teams, including ecologists, data scientists, and climate researchers. Collaboration may involve co-developing models, sharing datasets, and jointly publishing research findings. Many institutions encourage postdocs to participate in grant writing, workshops, and conferences, which can further expand professional networks and lead to new collaborative projects. This collaborative environment helps postdocs develop diverse skill sets and build a strong foundation for future independent research or academic positions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a postdoctoral researcher in ecological modeling?

To excel as a Postdoctoral Researcher in Ecological Modeling, you need a Ph.D. in ecology, environmental science, or a related field, with strong quantitative and analytical skills. Experience with statistical modeling software (such as R or Python), GIS applications, and ecological simulation tools is typically required. Strong communication, problem-solving abilities, and collaborative teamwork are essential soft skills in this role. These competencies are crucial for developing robust ecological models, interpreting complex data, and effectively sharing findings with scientific and stakeholder communities.

What is the difference between Postdoctoral Position Ecological Modeling vs Postdoctoral Position Conservation Biology?

AspectPostdoctoral Position Ecological ModelingPostdoctoral Position Conservation Biology
Required CredentialsPh.D. in Ecology, Environmental Science, or related field; strong quantitative skillsPh.D. in Ecology, Conservation Biology, or related field; focus on fieldwork and policy
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, computational settings, data analysisField sites, research institutions, policy agencies
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutes, government agencies

Postdoctoral Position Ecological Modeling focuses on developing and applying computational models to understand ecological systems, while Postdoctoral Position Conservation Biology emphasizes field research and policy work to protect species and habitats. Both roles require a Ph.D. and are common in academic and research settings, but differ in their primary methods and focus areas.

What are popular job titles related to Postdoctoral Position Ecological Modeling jobs in California?

For Postdoctoral Position Ecological Modeling jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Postdoctoral Position Ecological Modeling jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Postdoctoral Position Ecological Modeling jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Postdoctoral Position Ecological Modeling jobs?

Cities in California with the most Postdoctoral Position Ecological Modeling job openings:

Postdoctoral Researcher in Gray Whale Ecology and Biology, Marine Science Institute, UC Santa B[...]

Santa Barbara, CA • On-site

UC Santa Barbara
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 5 - 10K employees

$60 - $80/hr

Other

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

The Benioff Ocean Science Laboratory seeks a highly motivated postdoctoral scholar to conduct field research on gray whale biology and ecology in the San Francisco Bay. In the last five years, an increasing number of gray whales (Eschrichtius robustus) appear to be using the Bay as a migratory stopover during their 12,000 mile journey between Mexico and the Arctic. Marine mammal biologists have observed gray whales feeding and/or attempting to feed in the Bay, a departure from past migratory behavior that is not yet well understood and that puts whales in closer contact with human activity and often at greater risk of harm, including increased risk of ship strikes.

This research is targeted at answering some of the core ecological questions related to understanding how and why gray whales are currently using the Bay and what effects this use of Bay habitats has on the whales themselves. Though specific research questions may be defined in collaboration with the successful candidate, example questions that may be addressed include:

  • What San Francisco Bay habitats are most important to gray whales and what are the general temporal and spatial patterns of use?
  • What specific benthic prey resources are the whales using in the Bay?
  • What is the nutritional value of these prey resources and is there physiological evidence that gray whales are benefiting from access to these food resources?
  • To which toxicological risks could gray whales be exposed by feeding upon prey sources within the Bay?
  • How may the feeding ecology of gray whales be shaping the ecology of the Bay itself?

The specific methodologies will be shaped collaboratively with the successful candidate based on their background and interests and the expertise of project principal investigators. These methods may include:

  • benthic ecology surveys and sampling
  • direct vessel-based observation of gray whale feeding ecology within the San Francisco Bay
  • uncrewed aerial systems surveys
  • review and analysis of long-term datasets curated by Bay monitoring and management agencies
  • lab-based analyses of whale tissue
  • prey energetic analyses
  • molecular/eDNA diet analysis
  • stable isotope analysis
  • contaminant sampling
  • acoustic benthic mapping
  • ecological modeling

The postdoc will work closely with collaborators at UC Santa Barbara, UC Berkeley, the Marine Mammal Center, and additional stakeholders. The postdoc will take the lead in defining field and lab research plans, managing the logistics for accomplishment of this plan, collection and analysis of all data, publishing the results in peer-reviewed journal(s), and communicating about the research with relevant stakeholders.

The field research work will be conducted primarily in the Bay Area during the gray whale field season (approximately Jan-May). However, the on-site work location for the remainder of the season will be UC Santa Barbara. Salary is competitive and commensurate with the applicant's qualifications and experience.

Applicants must have completed all requirements for a PhD program (or equivalent), except the dissertation, in biology, ecology, chemistry, environmental sciences, or a related field at the time of application.

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About UC Santa Barbara

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Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Santa Barbara, CA, US

Year founded

1954