The Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute (STRI; www.stri.si.edu) is pleased to invite applicants to fill two permanent research positions. The first position is part of a new initiative, made possible by generous support from the Simons Foundation, to conduct research on functional roles played by microbes in tropical forests. The second position is for a quantitative biologist conducting research on the ecology and evolution of tropical forests. Successful candidates will develop outstanding, independent research programs, supervise students and post-doctoral fellows, collaborate with Smithsonian staff, and provide service to STRI.
STRI is headquartered in the Republic of Panama, with modern research facilities, a library with extensive holdings in the natural and anthropological sciences, and field stations throughout the Republic of Panamá. Staff scientists maintain research programs within a worldwide network of collaborators at diverse academic institutions. Opportunities for mentoring young scientists are available through an internal fellowship program. Formal teaching is possible through educational programs with affiliated universities, but not required.
Incumbents will complement existing strengths at STRI, and within STRI’s Center for Tropical Forest Science/Smithsonian Forest Global Earth Observatory, including, but not limited to, community and population ecology, ecosystem biology, evolutionary ecology, soil-plant interactions, microbial ecology of forests, plant physiology, animal behavior and human impacts on tropical forests. Both positions are based in the Republic of Panama. Early- to mid-career candidates are especially encouraged, but applicants at all postdoctoral stages will be considered.
Minimum Qualifications: A Ph.D. and post-doctoral research experience in a relevant field, outstanding publication record, demonstrated success in obtaining grants, and a commitment to communicating science to the public. Demonstrated experience with bioinformatics (microbial biologist) and database management (quantitative biologist) will be an advantage.
To Apply: Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, a summary of research accomplishments and interests, curriculum vitae, three to five significant publications as separate PDFs, and the names and contact information of three references. Send applications electronically to strisearch@si.edu. Address inquiries to Dr. Allen Herre, Chair, Microbial Ecology Search Committee at HerreA@si.edu or Dr. Helene Muller-Landau, Chair, Quantitative Forest Ecology Search Committee, at MullerH@si.edu.
Positions are open until filled; review of applications will begin on 2 December 2016. STRI is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to diversity in its workforce. Appointments are made regardless of nationality.
