Postdoctoral Associate - BioSciences

Position Summary

Dr. Volker Rudolf's group in the Department of BioSciences at Rice University is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate in the field of Evolution and Behavior.

The Rudolf group works on projects ranging from community ecology to evolutionary biology and behavior. The postdoctoral associate will focus on an NSF-sponsored project studying the evolution of cannibalistic (selfish) behavior and correlated traits in Tribolium populations. There will be additional opportunities to collaborate on other projects in the group linked to the effects of climate change (phenological shifts and temperature) on species interactions and communities.

The ideal candidate will have strong expertise in evolution, behavior, experimental design, and data analysis, as well as a collaborative spirit and a commitment to mentoring. They will lead field collection, the execution of laboratory experiments, data analysis, and the publication of research, and will mentor undergraduate researchers.

Workplace Requirements:

• On campus position: This position is exclusively on-site, necessitating all duties to be performed in-person in Houston, Texas. Per Rice policy 440, work arrangements may be subject to change.
• Exempt (salaried) positions under FLSA are not eligible for overtime.
• This position is funded by a grant. Continued employment is contingent on the renewal of funding.

Hiring Salary:

$58,000

Required Qualifications and Skills

• Ph.D in Evolution, Ecology, Behavior, or related field
• Knowledge of the principles and techniques in the fields of ecology and/or evolutionary biology
• Skill in experimental evolution design
• Proficiency in data analysis using R and related software
• Excellent verbal and written communication and presentation skills
• Demonstrated ability to publish scholarly work in peer-reviewed journals
• Strong organization and time management skills
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team-based setting
• Able to work independently and professionally with minimal supervision and direction

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working with Tribolium (not required)

Essential Functions

• Lead and implement multi-generational experimental evolution studies in Tribolium
• Lead field collections and behavioral essays
• Documents, analyzes, and maintains research data
• Mentors, oversees, and/or trains junior research team members
• Publishes and presents research findings in peer-reviewed journals and professional conferences
• Supports project management and collaboration across institutions
• Designs and implements research protocols; including novel procedures, methods, or instrumentation to study the evolution of cannibalistic behavior
• Participates in weekly lab meetings and regular professional development activities
• Performs all other duties as assigned