Opportunity

A two-year, full time postdoc position working with Professor Jessica Gurevitch in the Department of Forestry and Natural Resources at Purdue University is available. The successful applicant will conduct research modeling biodiversity and species distributions in response to predicted climate change and potential climate intervention (solar radiation modification) in collaboration with climate scientists and ecologists under the supervision of Dr. Gurevitch at Purdue University.

Why climate intervention? There has been extensive climate science modeling of solar radiation modification (SRM), particularly for various strategies for stratospheric aerosol injection (SAI), but little is known about the effects on ecological systems. SAI would cool global climates, but would create new conditions rather than reversing anthropogenic climate change. What are the risks for biodiversity relative to climate change itself? Would SAI precipitate or pull back from ecological tipping points? What novel communities could be predicted? There are many original questions to investigate; the goals of this work are to better understand ecological risks and potential consequences, not to advocate for or against SRM.

Qualifications:

We seek a highly motivated, productive scholar with strong skills in ecological modeling with respect to climate and climate change to work on an interdisciplinary project in the novel area of the potential impacts of climate intervention (Zarnetske and Gurevitch et al, 2021. Potential ecological impacts of climate intervention by reflecting sunlight to cool Earth. PNAS 2021 Vol. 118 No. 15 e1921854118). Candidates are not expected to have experience with climate intervention, but will be expected to demonstrate expertise and productivity in modeling climate and climate change impacts on ecological systems, including biodiversity, species distributions, and related topics. Preference is for candidates focused on plant species and vegetation, but other research areas will be considered. There will be extensive opportunities to interact with climate scientists and ecologists, and considerable scope for creative development of project ideas. We are seeking a highly organized, creative and highly motivated individual who works well under pressure. Salary is competitive and based on experience.

A PhD in ecology, forestry, geography, conservation, or related disciplines is required with expertise in modeling and spatial analysis. Experience with analysis of large data sets, statistics using R, GIS, and coding skills is necessary for this position. Ability to work with independently and with researchers across a variety of disciplines is required.

To apply, please send statement of interest, curriculum vitae, and the names and contact information of three references to:

Jessica Gurevitch
Department of Forestry and Natural Resources, Purdue University
715 W. State St.
West Lafayette, IN 47907-2033
ag.purdue.edu/department/fnr/faculty-sites/gurevitch/
Email: jpgurevi@purdue.edu