Position Summary

Title: Synthesis of critical knowledge gaps in climate change risks to wetlands and wetland ecosystems services in the Midwest.

A postdoctoral research associate position is available in the Department of Fisheries and Wildlife at Michigan State University (MSU) as part of the Midwest Climate Adaptation Science Center (MW CASC), a Center funded by the U.S. Geological Survey and comprising academic and partner institutions in Illinois, Minnesota, Michigan, Wisconsin, and Indiana (https://mwcasc.umn.edu/). The MW CASC is part of a national network of regional Centers that teams scientists with natural and cultural resource managers and local communities to help fish, wildlife, water, land, and people adapt to a changing climate. The MW CASC Consortium's vision is to advance climate adaptation science and practice across all components of the climate adaptation cycle by pursuing region-specific, collaborative, synthesis projects that build on past work, provide new resources and tools, and catalyze adaptation capacity across the Midwest.  

The MSU-based Postdoctoral Fellow will serve as the principal analyst and researcher for the Consortium's synthesis project intended to identify key gaps in the translation of climate science, and use of climate change adaptation approaches, among practitioners actively restoring drained wetlands in the Midwestern United States. The approach will emphasize relationship-building and engagement with a diverse group of practitioners who will be invited to collaborate and assist with the synthesis.  Post-doctoral associate will assess the state of the science and practices used to inform projects where lands are being transitioned back from agricultural use. Initial goals are to learn about the restoration practices, including what guidance and tools practitioners are using for site selection and for implementing and evaluating restoration projects, particularly considering a changing climate.  The postdoc will be expected to lead data analysis, organize workshops, and develop senior-authored manuscripts as outputs from these activities. Research outcomes will be co-produced with non-academic partners to support the implementation of research findings in environmental decision-making and will require partner engagement and regular briefings.

The postdoc will work closely with MSU faculty, Drs. Jen Owen, Angela Burrow, and Barret Wessel, and TNC research scientist Dr. Kimberly Hall and with a regional synthesis working group that will include consortium members and state, federal, and tribal partners. The postdoc will be expected to interact in-person with the synthesis project's working group at annual MW CASC meetings, workshops, and other appropriate events.  

Opportunities for training, professional development, and conference attendance will be provided by the team as well as through the MSU Office of Postdoctoral Affairs ().

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Required Degree

Doctorate -ecology, natural resources or a related

Minimum Requirements

• Ph.D. in ecology, natural resources or a related field by the start of the position
• Research interests in wetland ecosystems, climate change, management and/or conservation of natural resources.
• Expertise with quantitative and/or spatial data analysis
• Strong organizational and interpersonal skills
• Strong publication track record with at least one first author publication
• Strong interest in stakeholder engagement
• Excellent oral and written communication skills

Desired Qua