Postdoctoral Research Associate

Postdoctoral Researcher

We are recruiting a postdoctoral researcher to join a collaborative, NSF-funded project investigating the mechanisms underlying the persistence of tundra plant relicts in Northeast alpine zones since regional deglaciation ~13,000 years ago. We seek a question-driven, big-picture thinker who works well in collaborative groups, and ideally has a background in either paleo ecology or plant population genetics. The postdoc will lead the analysis of ancient DNA reconstructions of long-term vegetation records from alpine lakes in the Adirondacks (NY), the White Mountains (NH), the Green Mountains (VT), and Maine.

The chosen candidate will have the opportunity to develop and pursue questions of interest related to project themes and to contribute collaboratively with other team members, such as population genomic analyses of demographic history and adaptation. Our project not only has applications for understanding contemporary biodiversity patterns, but will also improve our understanding of how small, isolated populations persist in the face of global change.

This position will be based in the BEAST Lab (Biodiversity and Environments Across Space and Time) in the Climate Change Institute at the University of Maine, under the mentorship of PI Jacquelyn Gill. The successful candidate will join a highly collaborative team including Dudu Meireles (University of Maine), Caitlin McDonough Mackenzie (Bennington College), Stephen Keller (University of Vermont), Andrew Rominger (University of Hawaii), and Isaac Overcast (Columbia University).

The position is funded for up to three years (renewal after the first year is dependent upon progress). The University of Maine is a family-friendly R1 institution with a collegial environment. Close proximity to forests, mountains, rivers, and the ocean make the greater Bangor area a great place to live and work. Typical hiring salary for this soft-money funded position is $55,000 commensurate with qualifications and experience.

Qualifications:

Required:

• PhD in biology, ecology, evolution, geography, Earth science, or a related discipline (candidates nearing completion will be considered but the PhD must be conferred before the start date)
• Demonstrated track record of publication in scientific journals
• Strong quantitative and programming skills

Preferred:

• Expertise in the community ecology, functional ecology, or molecular ecology of plants
• Experience with sediment-based paleo ecological reconstructions OR experience with population genomics and/or phylogeographic approaches to reconstructing past population dynamics of plants
• Familiarity with Arctic and/or alpine systems
• Curiosity, open-mindedness, and a willingness to learn new approaches
• Ability to work in a collaborative team across disciplines

To be considered for this position you will need to "Apply" and upload the documentation listed below:

• a cover letter which describes your experience, interests, and suitability for the position
• curriculum vitae

Candidates selected to proceed to the final stages of the search process will be requested to provide a list of names and contact information for references.

Incomplete application materials cannot be considered. Materials received after the initial review date will be reviewed at the discretion of the University. For full consideration, materials must be submitted by 4:30 p.m. EST on July 1, 2026. Start date is flexible, but no later than 01/01/2027.

For questions about the search, please contact search committee chair Dr. Jacquelyn Gill. The successful applicant is subject to appropriate background screening.

The University of Maine System (the System) is an equal opportunity institution committed to fostering a nondiscriminatory environment and complying with all applicable nondiscrimination laws. The System provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request. If you believe you have experienced discrimination or harassment, you are encouraged to contact the System Office of Equal Opportunity and Title IX Services.

The Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act, or Clery Act, mandates that all Title IV institutions, such as the University, prepare, publish and distribute an Annual Security Report, (ASR) and provide notice of the availability of the ASR to all prospective employees. This report consists of two basic parts: disclosure of the University's crime statistics for the past three calendar years;

and disclosures regarding the University's current campus security policies. You may view the University's Annual Security Report.