Field-based STEM Education Postdoctoral Researcher

The Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology [https://www.eeb.ucsc.edu/] at the University of California, Santa Cruz (UCSC) invites applications for a Field-based STEM Education Postdoctoral Researcher, under the direction of Professor Erika Zavaleta and Assistant Professor Roxanne Beltran. The postdoctoral researcher will collaboratively lead the evaluation of a new field and lab-based course to complement our introductory biology curriculum. The successful candidate will work closely with faculty members to study the efficacy of a new course designed to provide our diverse early career students with authentic research experiences in ecology and evolutionary biology. We seek a candidate with strong STEM education research experience. An established track record of professional development in evidence-based and equitable pedagogy is required. Experience as an instructor of record is strongly desired, but strong teaching assistant experience is sufficient. A background in field-based biological research is preferred, including the design and implementation of research projects in field biology of any scale. We welcome candidates who understand the barriers facing marginalized groups in higher education. We especially welcome candidates who have experience in building equity, diversity, and inclusion in teaching, mentoring, and other professional activities. UC Santa Cruz is a Hispanic Serving Institution with a high proportion of first-generation students. The new field and lab course will be designed using the latest evidence-based methods for creating an equitable learning experience for our students. In addition to leading this project, the successful candidate will have the opportunity to work closely with a variety of other science education and field teaching projects and will be encouraged to engage in professional development with our vibrant teaching community and teaching center on campus.

Salary commensurate with qualifications and experience. Minimum annual salary rates are made based on the individual’s experience level, which is determined by the number of months of postdoctoral service at any institution. See current salary scale for Postdoctoral Titles at https://apo.ucsc.edu/compensation/salary-scales/index.html

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS: Ph.D. (or equivalent foreign degree) in science education, ecology, evolution, physiology, animal behavior or related field at the time of application. Experience with design and analysis of educational research.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Applicants with experience or expertise in the following areas are strongly encouraged to apply:

POSITION AVAILABLE

As soon as possible after initial review of the applications. Ph.D. must be in hand at time of the initial appointment.

MAXIMUM DURATION OF SERVICE IN A POSTDOCTORAL TITLE

Postdoctoral Scholar appointments are full-time; the initial appointment is for a minimum of one year, with the possibility of reappointment. Reappointment will be contingent upon positive performance review and availability of funding. The total duration of an individual’s postdoctoral service may not exceed five years, including postdoctoral service at any institution. Under limited circumstances, an exception to this limit may be considered, not to exceed a sixth year.

How to apply:

All documents and materials must be submitted as PDFs and should be forwarded to both Professor Erika Zavaleta ([email protected]) and Assistant Professor Roxanne Beltran ([email protected]).

Documents/Materials

§  Letter of application that briefly summarizes your qualifications and interest in the position (required).

§  Curriculum Vitae - Your most recently updated C.V., which must include a list of publications and three professional references along with their contact information. The search committee will contact the references of those applicants who are under serious consideration (required).

Statement of contributions to diversity, equity, and inclusion: Statement addressing your understanding of the barriers facing traditionally underrepresented groups and your past and/or future contributions to diversity, equity, and inclusion through research and professional or public service. Candidates are urged to review guidelines on statements (see https://apo.ucsc.edu/diversity.html) before preparing their application (required).

RECRUITMENT PERIOD: Full consideration will be given to applications completed within one month of the official posting date. Applications received after this date will be considered only if the position has not been filled.