Postdoctoral research associate—human dimensions of invasive species, Boston University

Overview and responsibilities

I am seeking a postdoctoral research associate to analyze the human dimensions of invasive species in two related projects in midwestern and western US communities. The postdoc will work with Dr. Abigail Sullivan (Boston University Department of Earth and Environment).

The first project involves a team of social and natural scientists analyzing the social-ecological dimensions of Nitellopsis obtusa (starry stonewort) – a key emerging aquatic invasive plant in lakes in the midwestern US – in response to climate change. Initial social science data have been collected with stakeholders in Indiana, Wisconsin, and Minnesota. The postdoc may lead the analysis of existing qualitative (interview) data, lead and collaborate on manuscripts, have the opportunity to collect additional qualitative data, and interact with stakeholders and ecologists on the project team.

A second project leverages an existing network of cooperative invasive species management groups (known as CISMAs) to analyze how different collective action structures influence social and ecological outcomes of invasive plant management with implications for improving management. The postdoc may lead the collection of qualitative and quantitative social science data (e.g., interviews, participant observation, and social surveys), analyze data, and lead and collaborate on manuscripts.

Responsibilities of the postdoc will include collaboratively preparing manuscripts and grant proposals; traveling throughout the midwestern (and potentially western) US to conduct fieldwork (subject to evolving pandemic conditions); and mentoring undergraduate and graduate I have other ongoing interdisciplinary projects that the postdoc with the right skills and interests could also be involved with on topics such as perceptions of degrowth and freshwater governance.

Benefits and logistics

The annual salary will be $55,000 plus benefits including health insurance. Boston University has many resources to support postdoc life and work (https://www.bu.edu/pdpa/postdocs/). The position is funded for up to two years with the second year contingent on satisfactory performance and the availability of funds. The preferred start date is September 1, 2021, but this may be negotiated. It would be ideal if the postdoc could be physically located in the Boston, MA area but other arrangements may be possible.

In this position, I will work with you to achieve your career goals, whatever they may be, and to position you for success both during your time at BU and in the future. Please feel free to contact me with any questions at abigailv@bu.edu

Qualifications

Required –

Ph.D. with training and skills in the environmental social sciences, such as environmental studies/policy/sciences, geography, sociology, anthropology, or a related field

– Formal training and experience with semi-structured interview methods and qualitative data analysis (e.g., content, thematic, discourse analysis)

Preferred
–Experience working in multi- or inter-disciplinary teams
–Record of scholarly publications, including author/coauthor of peer reviewed publications –Experience with mixed-methods research
–Experience with quantitative data including social surveys and statistical analysis –Interest in invasive species

How to apply
To apply, please submit the following to Dr. Abigail Sullivan at abigailv@bu.edu by July 1, 2021:
1) A cover letter describing your relevant experience and skills, scholarly interests, and career goals
2) Your CV
3) Contact information (email addresses) for three references