The lab of Erika Zavaleta at the University of California-Santa Cruz is seeking a postdoctoral fellow to join the research group and work primarily on a novel grassland biodiversity field experiment currently in its third successful year.  The project explores ordered and randomized species loss effects on ecosystem processes in a serpentine grassland at Coyote Ridge/ Kirby Canyon Reserve, California, 45 minutes from UCSC campus. Coyote Ridge is the most extensive serpentine grassland in the San Francisco Bay Area and is an important restoration and conservation site for dozens of rare California plant and animal species.

Applicants should have the following experience and qualifications:
§  Ph.D. in ecology, biogeochemistry, or a related field conferred by August 1, 2011.
§  Significant field and laboratory experience in plant community ecology and biogeochemistry/nutrient cycling.  Experience in grassland ecology and restoration, soil science, experimental ecology, plant invasion biology and related areas is also desirable.
§  Excellent writing and analytical/statistical skills and a desire to take the lead on multiple publications in a short time frame.
§  Attention to detail and willingness to navigate the administrative aspects of managing a research project at a large research institution.
§  Desire to work closely with and mentor others, including undergraduate and Ph.D. students.
§  A valid driver’s license and ability to drive a pickup truck on unimproved dirt roads.

Responsibilities include scientific oversight for significant components of the project; overall management of the experimental site, field and lab logistics, part-time project staff, and equipment and supply flow; and taking the lead role in writing at least two manuscripts per year.  The fellow will develop and address project research questions identified collaboratively with the PI, using data within and across project years. The fellow will also have the opportunity to collaborate with the PI and other project scientists as a contributor to other research streams, manuscripts and proposals.  The Zavaleta lab currently includes four postdoctoral fellows and four Ph.D. students working on a range of projects (people.ucsc.edu/~zavaleta ).

Competitive salary and benefits; position to begin no later than Sept. 1, 2011 with an initial one-year commitment and the possibility of extension to two years.  To apply, please send a cover letter addressing each of the requested qualification, a CV, two or more references (contact information or letters), and relevant reprints (optional) to Erika Zavaleta at zavaleta@ucsc.edu.  Applications will be considered until the position is filled.

Please view full description at people.ucsc.edu/~zavaleta. Closes 8/31/11.