Postdoc: Population ecology of urban rodents (USA)

We are seeking a postdoctoral associate to join an NSF-funded, Coupled
Natural and Human (CNH) systems project to assist with research on the
population ecology of Norway rats and epidemiology of rodent-born pathogens
in New Orleans, Louisiana, USA.

The postdoc will develop a computational metapopulation model of rodents in
New Orleans. The population model will synthesize information and data from
GIS analyses, population genetics, trap-based surveys, disease prevalence,
vegetation surveys, and sociological surveys. The model will be used to
assess ecological and human-health outcomes of alternative control scenarios
reflecting risk perceptions, rodent abundance, and habitat suitability
across the New Orleans study region.

The expected outcomes of the project include (1) modeling the distribution
and demographics of human exposure risk according to habitat, landscape and
socioeconomic factors; and (2) determining the likelihood of containing and
controlling transmission according to competing intervention targets and
strategies; and (3) determining the extent to which interventions give rise
to feedbacks between ecological and societal diversity.

The postdoctoral researcher also may be expected to serve as a coordinator
for the project, working with an interdisciplinary team of scientists
including public health professionals, sociologists, geographers,
ecologists, and mathematicians.

The researcher will be mentored by Dr. Caz Taylor (Department of Ecology and
Evolutionary Biology and Center for Computational Science, Tulane
University) and Dr. Michael Blum (Department of Ecology and Evolutionary
Biology and Center for Bioenvironmental Research, Tulane University).

In addition to contributing to the collaborative research project described
above, the postdoctoral researcher will develop his/her own research
questions and will be expected to present results at scientific conferences
and publish in peer-reviewed journals.

Candidates are being sought with: (1) Strong computational and programming
skills, prefer experience in R, and/or matlab; (2) Demonstrated research
excellence; (3) Strong oral and written communication skills. Preference
will be given to applicants whose research interests and expertise
complement the research project but outstanding applicants looking to
broaden their field of interest will also be seriously considered. A PhD in
ecology, population genetics, epidemiology, mathematics, or a related field
is required.

The position is available immediately, though the start date is flexible.
Funding is available for three years. An initial appointment will be for two
years with an extension contingent on performance. Compensation will be
≥$40,000 per year, with starting salary commensurate with experience. A
standard benefits package will be available.

Tulane University is an equal employment opportunity/affirmative action
employer committed to excellence through diversity. All eligible candidates
are invited to apply for position vacancies as appropriate.

To apply, email a cover letter, a statement of research interests and
experience, a CV, and the names and contact information of three references to:

Ms. Shelley Meaux
Department Administrator
Tulane/Xavier Center for Bioenvironmental Research (CBR)
107B Richardson Building
Tulane University
New Orleans, LA 70118
smeaux@tulane.edu

Questions about the position or project should be directed to Dr. Caz Taylor
(caz@tulane.edu) and/or Dr. Michael Blum (mjblum@tulane.edu).

Applications will be reviewed beginning October 15 2013.