Postdoctoral Research Associate - Department of Biology

Postdoctoral Research Associate

Department of Biology

West Virginia University

The Department of Biology in the Eberly College of Arts and Sciences at West Virginia University invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate. Under the leadership of Professor Dr. Justin Mathias, the incumbent in this position will conduct research in the field of forest ecosystem science. This is a full-time, benefits eligible position.

The Department of Biology consists of faculty whose research spans from molecules to ecosystems, with strengths in areas such as bioinformatics, genetics, ecology, physiology, and plant science. The Department of Biology has access to numerous resources including the WVU Herbarium, Core Arboretum, Ecotron, and greenhouse facilities to advance innovative, collaborative research. Beyond the department, WVU houses cutting-edge high-performance computing clusters, including Dolly Sods and Thorny Flat, which are available to support data-intensive projects. Further information can be found at the Department website: https://biology.wvu.edu.

The scholar hired in this position will have the opportunity to contribute to a number of exciting projects centered on understanding how air pollution, disturbance, and climate change affect the biogeochemistry and ecophysiology of forest ecosystems. Potential projects may include (but are not limited to) resolving the impact of wildfire smoke on forest carbon cycling, characterizing how coupled plant-microbial interactions shape forest responses to wildfire in the eastern U.S., or strengthening the framework of using nitrogen isotopes to track forest nitrogen cycling dynamics. Projects that align closely with current goals and directions of the Mathias Lab, with a combination of field-, lab-, and modeling-based approaches are encouraged.

Responsibilities:

Specific responsibilities will include, but are not limited to: designing and implementing laboratory and field experiments according to established protocols while maintaining detailed records of activities; conducting independent experimental data analyses and drawing sound scientific conclusions; preparing written and oral reports on research progress for review by Dr. Mathias; and preparing manuscripts for submission to reputable journals for publicaiton. The postdoctoral scholar will participate in bi-weekly group meetings to update research progress, survey the scientific literature to identify and adapt appropriate methods, and remain current with technological advances by reading relevant publications, attending workshops, and presenting at professional conferences.

Professional Qualifications:

A Ph.D. in Environmental Sciences, Ecology, Hydrology, Geosciences, Date Science or a related field is required.

In addition, the successful applicant must show evidence of: the ability to conduct experiments in the field; demonstrated excellent written and oral communication skills; demonstrated excellent interpersonal skills; and an interest in mentorship and collaborative work.

Application:

To apply, please visit WVU Careers. Upload the following: 1) a curriculum vitae; 2) an application letter that discusses relevant experience and interest in research area; and 3) contact information for three references that can provide recommendation letters.

The screening process will begin November 1, 2025, and continue until the position is filled. For more information, contact Dr. Mathias (justin.mathias@mail.wvu.edu).

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West Virginia University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We invite all qualified applicants regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or Veteran status.