The Moeller Lab (moellergroup.org) at the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities is seeking a postdoctoral associate for a funded project on evolutionary responses to climate change and consequences for geographic range dynamics. Our project specifically focuses on improving forecasts of range expansion for invasive plant species by incorporating knowledge of local adaptation to historical climate variation and its implications for responses to contemporary climate change. The project includes large-scale precipitation and temperature manipulation in combination with reciprocal transplants of genotypes of common tansy (Tanacetum vulgare) across four regions of Minnesota. This experiment has already been established and will continue for at least two additional years. The postdoc will lead data collection, statistical analysis, and publication of major results from the experiment. They will also lead the development of predictive distribution models that incorporate data from the experiment. The project is funded by the Minnesota Invasive Terrestrial Plants and Pest Center (MITPPC). We strongly encourage anyone with interests in any of the following areas to apply: geographic range dynamics, local adaptation, ecological genetics, eco-evolutionary dynamics, and biogeography.

In addition to the focal project, the postdoc will have opportunities to interface with other ongoing research in the Moeller Lab. First, there are opportunities to develop additional projects within the existing field experiment. Second, the lab has an additional newly-funded project on invasive species funded by USDA-NIFA. This project uses remote sensing to detect and monitor the population dynamics of invasive plant species using satellite imagery. The postdoc would work closely with other lab members working on this project. Third, the lab has conducted research on geographic range dynamics of a California native plant (Clarkia xantiana) for ca. 20 years with funding from NSF LTREB. The postdoc would have the opportunity to contribute to the analysis and publication of data from that long-term project. We would be happy to discuss more details.

Beyond research on range dynamics of invasive plants, the Moeller lab studies a diverse array of topics in plant evolution and ecology and uses a combination of research approaches including field experiments, long-term field studies, quantitative and population genetics, and distribution modeling. Researchers in the lab work on topics such as geographic range limits, speciation and hybridization, origins of polyploidy and its ecological consequences, and plant-microbe interactions. The diversity of interests promotes a culture of collaboration and cross-disciplinary research. At UMN, the postdoc will also be part of a larger vibrant and diverse community of faculty, postdocs, and students in ecology, evolution and genetics.

Breakdown of Duties
Field work 30%
Data analysis 30%
Writing/Publications 30%
Managing and mentoring undergraduates 5%
Interaction with stakeholders and collaborators 5%

Salary: Starting salary is $57,000 per year with employee benefits. This position is available starting no later than May 2024. This is a two-year (24-month) position that will be appointed on an annual basis, dependent upon the candidate's performance.

Required Qualifications:

Ph.D., DDS, DVM, JD, MD or equivalent is required.

The University of Minnesota has a national reputation in biology teaching and educational research. To build on existing strengths, the Department of Biology Teaching and Learning was created in July 2014 as a partnership between the College of Biological Sciences and the College of Education and Human Development. The mission of our department is to discover, apply and share research-based strategies that transform biology education. With strengths in both biological and pedagogical research, the Department of Biology Teaching and Learning strives to be part of a tradition of excellence. Through our ongoing research, our department members contribute to the growing understanding of how students learn; through their teaching and outreach, we model the implementation of evidence-based educational research; and through our mentoring of graduate students and colleagues, we will help build a strong community of teaching scholars of national reputation.

Working at the University

At the University of Minnesota, you'll find a flexible work environment and supportive colleagues who are interested in lifelong learning. We prioritize work-life balance, allowing you to invest in the future of your career and in your life outside of work.

The University also offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost

Please visit the for more information regarding benefits.

Application Materials:

Prospective candidates need to submit the following documents:

(1) a cover letter describing relevant research experience and research interests

(2) a current CV

(3) contact information for three references. Inquiries received before December 1, 2023 will receive priority consideration. Email inquiries to David Moeller (moeller@umn.edu) and/or Ryan Briscoe Runquist (rbriscoe@umn.edu) are encouraged.

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U:

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of America's Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).