POSTDOCTORAL SCHOLAR POSITION: SOCIAL-ECOLOGICAL DYNAMICS OF COASTAL SYSTEMS
Review of applications will begin on December 6, 2021 and will continue until the position is filled. We anticipate the successful candidate will start in the role by June 2022.
Job Description – Florida State University’s Coastal and Marine Laboratory (FSUCML) is seeking a postdoctoral scholar to conduct research on the social-ecological dynamics of coastal systems under the mentorship of Dr. Sarah Lester (Geography), Dr. Sandra Brooke (FSUCML), and Dr. Andrew Rassweiler (Biological Science). In particular, the postdoc will focus at least some of their research on the Apalachicola River and Bay ecosystem as part of a recently funded initiative focused on the restoration of the system (Apalachicola Bay System Initiative, ABSI). The postdoc will have latitude to develop the specific research project(s). This position is part of an effort to expand the disciplinary breadth of the FSUCML to include social science expertise and will offer a range of collaborative research possibilities.
Examples of potential goals for the successful postdoc candidate include:
Develop a more interdisciplinary understanding of ecosystem services (e.g., seafood provisioning, tourism, water purification, coastal protection, and biodiversity enhancement) provided by the diverse habitats in Apalachicola Bay, particularly expanding an understanding of how different stakeholders value different services
Engage with the Community Advisory Board for ABSI and conduct community interviews and surveys to explore different stakeholder visions for the future of the Bay
Examine the changing culture and social fabric of the region as it faces wild fishery declines, climate change impacts, and new coastal development
Explore the human value component of oyster reef ecosystem services in the Apalachicola Bay system, including the different values and services provided by wild oyster recovery versus oyster farming
The successful candidate should have earned their PhD by the start of the position or within the past 5 years in a relevant discipline (e.g., sociology, anthropology, geography, natural resource economics, marine science) and have interest and experience conducting social science and interdisciplinary collaborative research. A strong publication record commensurate with the applicant’s career stage and experience with grant-writing are preferred.
This full-time role includes health insurance and is fully funded for two years, with the potential to extend the appointment particularly through collaborative fundraising efforts. Modest research and/or professional travel funds are also available. More information about FSU’s postdoctoral scholar appointments and resources can be found on the University’s Office of Postdoctoral Affairs website.
How to Apply – Applications should be submitted at https://jobs.fsu.edu for Job ID 50141 and contain a cover letter that includes a description of research expertise and interests, curriculum vita, and names and contact information for three professional references with your online application.
About the FSU Coastal and Marine Laboratory – The FSUCML is located on the northeastern Gulf of Mexico coast in a relatively undeveloped area of rich biological diversity and social and cultural history, known as the “Forgotten Coast.” The postdoctoral scholar would be based at the FSUCML, which is only one hour from the FSU main campus in Tallahassee.
The MISSION of the FSUCML is to conduct innovative, interdisciplinary research that contributes to solving ecological problems and providing the scientific foundation for informed policy decisions.
The VISION for the FSUCML is to be an internationally recognized center for coastal and marine science, setting the agenda for research and education and remaining a trusted source for scientific advice.
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion – Florida State University is an Equal Opportunity/Access/Affirmative Action/Pro Disabled & Veteran Employer. FSU is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive community that is welcoming to all faculty, staff, and students. As such, we strongly encourage applications from members of groups historically under-represented in science, as well as those who have a demonstrated commitment to fostering and promoting the values of diversity and inclusion.
FSU’s Equal Opportunity Statement
Questions can be sent to Sarah Lester at slester@fsu.edu.