Postdoctoral Research Associate

LUMCON, a program of the Board of Regents, is a statewide academic endeavor focused on strengthening the foundations of marine science to address the environmental and socioeconomic challenges facing Louisiana and the nation. Anchored by a first‑rate marine laboratory, the DeFelice Marine Center is embedded in Louisiana’s dynamic wetland environment and serves as a gateway to the Gulf of Mexico. LUMCON operates a world‑class fleet of research vessels and is expanding its programs through a new maritime research and outreach facility in Houma.

The Roberts Lab of Ecosystem Ecology and Biogeochemistry at LUMCON is seeking multiple postdoctoral research associates to join an interdisciplinary research team. Candidates should be highly motivated, enthusiastic, and organized problem‑solvers who can lead and participate in field and laboratory work in wetland, estuarine, and/or coastal marine ecosystems. Current projects include a large‑scale marsh mesocosm oiling experiment, long‑term studies on coastal wetland carbon fluxes, nutrient exchanges, microbial ecology, and vegetation dynamics;

research on the relationship of human disturbance to ecosystem services in offshore sand shoal habitats; wetland food webs in natural and created marshes influenced by river diversions; living shoreline restorations; and coastal estuarine biogeochemistry. The lab also collaborates on NSF‑funded projects on methane efflux from river‑influenced coastal sediments and methane dynamics across microbe‑to‑landscape scales in coastal wetlands. Postdocs will have the opportunity to build on extensive datasets and develop independent research projects within these areas.

• Ph.D. in biogeochemistry, ecology, oceanography, wetland science, plant ecology, or a related field.
• Ability to work collaboratively with PIs, other postdocs, graduate and undergraduate students, and research associates or technicians.

• Experience with field and laboratory instruments.
• Understanding of basic experimental design and statistical analyses, creativity in methodological development, and strong communication and organizational skills in a team environment.

• Lead and participate in field and laboratory work in wetland, estuarine, and/or coastal marine ecosystems.
• Oversee team members on projects.
• Build on extensive datasets to advance research on primary production, respiration, biogeochemistry, and microbial communities.
• Develop and lead independent research projects, manage data, and write publications.

No Civil Service test score is required. Complete the electronic application to be considered for this vacancy.

Brian Roberts

broberts

This is an unclassified position. Positions are available immediately. The initial appointment is for 1 year with possible additional support depending on funding and satisfactory performance. Positions will be based at the LUMCON Marine Center in Cocodrie, LA.

Applications will be rejected if the applicant does not meet the minimum qualifications or submits an incomplete application.

Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of a complete application; please attach your transcript or other required materials.

All individuals hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the I‑9 verification upon hire.

Board of Regents is an Equal Opportunity Employer.