Postdoctoral Research Associate

Description

The Evolution of Sexually Selected Weapons and Shields in Coreidae (Insecta: Hemiptera)

The successful candidate will investigate the evolution of weapons and shields used in male-male combat. Previous work investigating male-male combat has almost exclusively taken an offensive perspective, while the role of defense has almost been completely ignored. How well an individual is defended during a fight can determine whether that individual will win or lose. Thus, an individual’s defensive capacity is critical to their fighting success. However, almost nothing is known about why some individuals are better defended than others. Moreover, evolutionary arms-races between weapons and defensive structures are postulated to have a role in weapon diversification. Thus, our lack of knowledge about these defensive traits is also a critical obstacle to understanding how such arms-races influence the evolution and diversification of weapons. To address these gaps in knowledge, the successfully candidate will 1) take an experimental manipulation approach to determine why some individuals are better defended than others, and 2) use phylogenetic comparative methods to evaluate the causes and consequences of evolving these defensive structures.

The ability to design, collect data, and perform statistical analyses for behavioral experiments is strongly preferred. Additional skills such as a phylogenetic comparative method skillset, fieldwork experience, and entomological knowledge are welcome, but not essential.  

Oklahoma State University, as an equal opportunity employer, complies with all applicable federal and state laws regarding non-discrimination and affirmative action. Oklahoma State University is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all individuals and does not discriminate based on race, religion, age, sex, color, national origin, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, disability, or veteran status regarding employment, educational programs and activities, and/or admissions. 

Qualifications

Required qualifications are a Ph.D. in biology, entomology, or a closely related field. Candidates must have excellent English writing and verbal communication skills, as well as an established record of productivity (i.e., at least one previous peer reviewed publication). The position is available January 1, 2025 and will remain open until filled. The position will initially have a duration of one year, with possibility of extension depending on satisfactory performance and funding availability. Compensation will include $60,000 for 12 months of salary, health insurance, and other benefits.

Application Instructions

To apply, please submit a short cover letter addressing how your expertise meets the position requirements, a CV, one representative publication, and contact info (phone and/or email) for two references to: http://apply.interfolio.com/157125.

Review of applications will begin November 1st and will continue until a suitable candidate is found.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Oklahoma State University as an equal opportunity employer, complies with all applicable federal and state laws regarding non-discrimination. Oklahoma State University is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all individuals and does not discriminate based on race, religion, age, sex, color, national origin, marital status, disability, or veteran status with regard to employment, educational programs and activities, and/or admissions. For more information, visit https:///eeo.okstate.edu.