Post Doctoral Associate
This is a full-time, exempt, fully-benefited position with a one-year initial appointment, renewable for a second year based on performance and funding. Salary range: $70,000–$75,000, commensurate with experience.
Position Summary
The Microbial Ecology and Soil Science (MESS) Lab Postdoctoral Associate leads and supports research in soil health, microbial ecology, community ecology, agricultural systems, and global change. The role includes participation in ongoing projects focused on multifactor stress in soils and ecological dynamics in tropical canopy environments, with opportunities to develop independent research initiatives. While the preferred location is Millbrook, NY, hybrid or remote arrangements will be considered for exceptional candidates. The anticipated start date is Summer to Fall 2025, with flexibility.
Essential Responsibilities
- Design and carry out field and/or laboratory experiments related to soil microbial ecology and nutrient cycling
- Analyze and interpret metagenomic and biogeochemical data using bioinformatics and statistical tools
- Prepare manuscripts for peer-reviewed publication and present findings at scientific conferences
- Develop and lead independent research that complements ongoing lab projects
- Collaborate across the lab to integrate microbial, soil, and ecosystem datasets
- Mentor undergraduate or graduate interns in the lab
- Assist in writing grant proposals and seeking research funding
- Participate in seminars, workshops, and initiatives across the Cary Institute community
Required Qualifications
- Ph.D. in soil sciences, microbial ecology, ecology, disturbance ecology, bioinformatics, or a related field (earned before appointment)
- Proven experience in field and lab-based research on soil microbial ecology and nutrient cycling
- Demonstrated skills in bioinformatics/genomic analysis using tools such as R, Python, JavaScript, or C++
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience working in interdisciplinary scientific teams
- Familiarity with climate change impacts on soil ecosystems
- Experience developing data visualizations or interactive tools for general audiences
- Prior experience working in agricultural and neotropical ecosystems
- Experience in lab and field settings analyzing soil and microbial components of the ecosystems
Required Skills
- Strong quantitative and analytical skills for ecological and microbial data
- Field and lab proficiency in soil science and microbial ecology techniques
- Competence in analyzing metagenomic and biogeochemical data
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively
- Strong communication skills, both written and oral
- Engagement with interdisciplinary teams and external stakeholders to apply research
Working Conditions
- Full-time, Exempt, fully benefitted position.
- Must be able to work additional hours as required by business needs.
- May require computer work for 7 hours or more a day.
- Travel opportunities may be available as part of the research
- Finalist must successfully complete a post-offer, pre-employment background check
Closing Date: Position is open until filled.
To Apply:
Please submit one document that includes a cover letter, resume and the names and full contact information (including e-mail address) for three professional references.
The Cary Institute is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer. It is the policy of the Institute to provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, familial status, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information.