"Postdoctoral Scholar-Fixed Term"

Working/Functional Title

Postdoctoral Research Scholar - Kobe Lab

Position Summary

The Department of Forestry at Michigan State University is seeking an outstanding Postdoctoral Scholar to lead or assist with all phases of research on a long-term project focused on temperate forest dynamics in response to climate change across gradients of soil moisture. Project focal areas include effects of climate on seed rain, seedling survivorship, mature tree growth and survival, and stand productivity. Data sets, some spanning 25+ years, include annual seedling establishment and survivorship; resource measurements in a subset of years (% canopy openness and soil nutrients); mapped forest stands; mature tree survivorship and growth; and local weather station data. The successful candidate is expected to author/co-author publications based on existing long-term data on seedling and tree dynamics and will manage data sets, analyze and interpret data in a modeling framework (preferably Bayesian), and assist in managing the project, including supervision of undergraduate assistants and overseeing summer field data collection in a national forest. The position holds the potential for extending research in new directions and to collaboratively pursue additional research funding. MSU’s strengths in quantitative ecological methods provide a collaborative environment that supports success. The position will begin as a one-year appointment with available extensions, depending on satisfactory performance and funding availability. Desired start date is May/June 2026.

Required Degree

Doctorate -Statistics/Forestry/Ecology or related

Minimum Requirements

The successful candidate must have an earned PhD in Statistics, Forestry, Ecology or closely field, expertise in managing large and complex datasets, modeling experience using Bayesian and/or Maximum Likelihood approaches, strong coding skills in R and/or other programming languages; strong skills in written and verbal communication; and experience in managing personnel and projects.

Desired Qualifications

Preferred qualifications include documented ability to bring research projects to completion (peer-reviewed publication record), successful grant-writing skills, and evidence of effective independent and collaborative work.

Required Application Materials

Upload the following required documents: 1) a letter of interest detailing qualifications for the position and research interests, 2) curriculum vitae, and 3) a writing sample (preferably a journal article or dissertation chapter), and 4) a list of three professional references with contact information (institution, email address, phone number).

Special Instructions

Incomplete applications will not be considered.

Review of Applications Begins On

03/02/2026

Remote Work Statement

MSU strives to provide a flexible work environment and this position has been designated as remote-friendly. Remote-friendly means some or all of the duties can be performed remotely as mutually agreed upon.

Website

FOR.MSU.EDU