[ES_JOBS_NET] Postdoc at UNLV on structural diversity frameworks to integrate biocrusts as a dynamic soil property in dryland management

[Mauritz-Tozer, Marguerite E]

Postdoctoral Research Position in Dryland Soil Ecology and Biological Soil Crusts
Position Overview:
We are inviting a Postdoctoral Researcher to join our
Dryland Algae and Microbes lab at the University of Nevada,
Las Vegas (UNLV) and be part of an interdisciplinary team of
scientists fascinated by biocrusts. The successful applicant
will be contributing to a USDA Natural Resources
Conservation Service (NRCS) funded project on employing a
structural diversity framework to integrate biocrusts as a
dynamic soil property into dryland Ecological Sites and
State-and-Transition Models. Specifically, our project aims
to 1) describe the variability of biocrust abundance and
composition across gradients of similar ecological sites and
states of the Mojave, Sonoran, and Chihuahuan deserts; 2)
Quantify biocrusts’ internal and external structure; and 3)
Assess contributions of biocrust abundance, composition,
and structure to ecosystem services across gradients of
similar ecological sites and states of the three deserts. The
successful candidate will work collaboratively with the project team to address these objectives.
Additional opportunities to develop independent research projects within the framework of the grant
will be available. This project provides a unique opportunity to collaborate with governmental (USDA
NRCS and ARS) and academic (University of Texas El Paso, New Mexico State University) partners while
contributing to the design of novel and practical tools that integrate quantifiable biocrust properties
as standardized dynamic soil properties for dryland management and soil conservation.
Qualifications:
The position requires a Ph.D. in Soil Science, Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Environmental
Microbiology, Plant and Environmental Science, Geography, or other relevant discipline. The project
involves an intensive sampling campaign, field work experience especially in drylands will be an asset.
Highly motivated candidates with a demonstrated record of publishing in peer-reviewed journals,
strong professional communication skills, data management, statistical analysis and coding skills, a
commitment to safe and inclusive work practices, and experience mentoring students and/or staff are
encouraged to apply. Preferred qualifications for the position include: Experience in carbon exchange
measurements, quantifying microbial diversity using amplicon metabarcoding and associated
bioinformatics, collecting and classifying biocrust samples and a strong working knowledge of dryland
soil ecology, vegetation and soil survey methods. This position is based in Las Vegas due to the
significant field and lab components in year 1. During later periods of the position, flex work is
negotiable.
Application Info:
The initial appointment will last for one year, with extension for up to 2.5 years contingent on
satisfactory performance. Start date is as early as 1st Dec 2023, preferably before end of spring 2024.
It includes a competitive salary (55-58K) plus benefits (Health Care, Retirement, etc.). Applicants
should apply with CV, contact information for 3 references, and 1-page (max.) cover letter. Application
should be submitted to nicole.pietrasiak at unlv.edu. Deadline: 2nd application review will be 21 Nov
2023. Position open until filled.


Marguerite Mauritz PhD.
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Assistant Professor
The University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP)
Department of Biological Sciences
Biology Building Rm 415
500 W University, El Paso, TX 79902

ORCID: 0000-0001-8733-9119
Google Scholar<https://scholar.google.com/citations?hl=en&user=Z94GQAUAAAAJ>

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